When comfort food calls, this Cheesy Chicken Pasta answers with tender chicken, creamy melted cheeses, and pasta perfectly coated in a luscious, flavorful sauce. Each bite is a warm hug on a plate. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but indulgent enough for guests. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned chef, this is one dish that always delivers satisfaction.
Why You’ll Love Cheesy Chicken Pasta
- Ultra Creamy: Thanks to heavy cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
- Flavor-Packed Chicken: Simple spices add depth without overwhelming.
- Easy Weeknight Meal: Ready in just 40 minutes.
- Customizable: Swap in your favorite pasta or cheese.
- Next-Day Delicious: Leftovers reheat beautifully.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 8 ounces pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
- 1⁄4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1⁄2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1⁄4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon butter
Directions
Step 1: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil over high heat.
2: Add a pinch of salt, then stir in the 8 ounces of pasta.
3: Cook pasta according to the package instructions, usually 8–10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally.
4: Drain the cooked pasta in a colander and set it aside.
5: While pasta cooks, season both sides of the chicken breasts with 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
6: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
7: Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for 6–7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and golden brown.
8: Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes.
9: Slice the rested chicken into bite-sized strips.
10: In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat.
11: Pour in 1 cup heavy cream. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
12: Stir in 1 cup shredded mozzarella and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan. Stir continuously until cheese melts and sauce becomes creamy.
13: Add the cooked pasta into the sauce, stirring to coat every strand.
14: Stir in the sliced chicken, mixing thoroughly with the pasta and sauce.
15: Cook everything together for another 2–3 minutes until heated through.
16: Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
17: Serve immediately while hot, creamy, and delicious.
Pro Tips and Variations
- Pasta Tip: Cook pasta al dente so it doesn’t become mushy in the sauce.
- Cheese Swap: Try cheddar or gouda for a flavor twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the sauce.
- Extra Creamy: Stir in a splash of milk or more heavy cream if the sauce gets too thick.
- Make It Veggie: Add baby spinach or roasted broccoli during the final stir-in.
Serving Suggestions
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
- Green Salad: A crisp salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness.
- Roasted Veggies: Try broccoli, zucchini, or carrots for a hearty side.
Storage/Reheating
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or microwave. Add a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.
- Freezer: Store cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in fridge overnight before reheating.
Notes
- Resting the chicken keeps it juicy and tender.
- Pasta will continue to absorb sauce—serve immediately for the best texture.
- Don’t skip the parsley—it adds brightness and freshness!
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta?
Yes! Penne, rotini, or fettuccine all work well.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes—store chicken, pasta, and sauce separately, then reheat and combine.
Is it spicy?
Not at all by default, but you can add spice with red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Sure! Just warm it up before combining with the sauce.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Chicken Pasta is a weeknight lifesaver—creamy, savory, and impossibly delicious. The seasoned chicken, rich cheese sauce, and tender pasta blend into pure comfort food magic. Whether you’re making it fresh or enjoying leftovers, this is one recipe that keeps you coming back for more.