If you have been searching for a comforting, rich, and satisfying meal, this Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe Recipe is exactly what you need to try tonight. It’s a heavenly dish where tender chicken meets perfectly cooked pasta, all smothered in a luscious, creamy cheddar sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Every forkful is a delightful blend of textures and tastes—creamy, cheesy, savory, and just a little bit spicy—making it an absolute favorite for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Trust me, once you make this, it will quickly become one of your go-to recipes to impress family and friends!

Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for this Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe Recipe is surprisingly simple and straightforward. Each component plays an essential role: the chicken brings protein and heartiness, the pasta provides the perfect base to soak up all that creamy sauce, and the combination of herbs and cheeses adds layers of flavor and a beautiful color contrast.

2 chicken breasts, skinless and boneless: Choose fresh chicken for juicy, tender bites that soak up the seasonings perfectly.
1 ½ tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and adding a subtle fruity richness without overpowering the other flavors.
1 tsp dry mustard: Adds a gentle tang and depth to the chicken seasoning.
½ tsp dried thyme: Infuses an earthy, slightly minty aroma to the dish.
½ tsp dried oregano: Brings a warm, herbal note that complements the chicken beautifully.
Salt, to taste: Enhances every ingredient and balances the flavors perfectly.
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Adds just the right hint of heat and pungency.
1 pound short-cut pasta: Rotini or any shape that holds sauce well is ideal for this recipe.
2 tbsp butter: For creating a silky, flavorful roux to thicken the sauce.
2 tbsp all-purpose flour: Works with butter to develop the creamy base of the sauce.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers a robust punch of aromatic flavor that blends seamlessly into the sauce.
1 yellow onion, diced: Adds sweetness and texture once softened.
¼ cup dry white wine: Elevates the sauce with subtle acidity and complexity.
1 tbsp Dijon mustard: Provides a tangy kick that lifts the creamy elements and balances richness.
8 oz white cheddar cheese, grated: The star of the show for that rich, gooey, cheesy goodness.
2 cups whole milk: Creates the luscious, creamy consistency essential to this pasta sauce.
1-2 tbsp fresh thyme: Fresh herbs add brightness and an inviting aroma at the end.
1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes: A little heat to wake up the palate and add excitement.

How to Make Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by combining the dry mustard, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and fresh black pepper in a small bowl to create a flavorful seasoning mix. Then, slice your chicken breasts into thin strips or bite-sized cubes—this ensures quick, even cooking and makes the dish easier to eat. Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over the chicken, tossing gently to coat each piece. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, and cook the chicken until it’s browned and cooked through, which usually takes just a few minutes. Set the chicken aside once done to keep it warm and juicy.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add your short-cut pasta, such as rotini. Cooking the pasta al dente is key here—this means tender but still slightly firm to the bite, ensuring it won’t get mushy once mixed with the sauce. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, ready for the creamy blend that will soon coat every bite.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheddar Sauce

Using the same skillet where the chicken cooked (it holds so much flavor), melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the all-purpose flour to create a roux, cooking it a couple of minutes to remove the raw flour taste while forming a silky base to thicken your sauce. Add minced garlic, diced onion, and Dijon mustard, letting the onions soften and mingle with the spices. Pour in the dry white wine carefully, stirring to deglaze the pan and infuse the sauce with bright, tangy notes. After that, gradually pour in whole milk in small additions, whisking constantly to keep it smooth. Let the sauce cook gently until it thickens as it warms.

Step 4: Add Cheese, Chicken, and Pasta

Once the sauce has thickened perfectly, stir in the shredded white cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt completely and create that irresistible creamy texture. Then, introduce the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until every piece is coated generously in that glorious cheesy sauce. Finish off by sprinkling fresh thyme and crushed red pepper flakes for a garnish that adds color, aroma, and a little pop of heat.

How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishes like fresh thyme leaves and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes not only add a burst of color but also uplift the flavors. You can also add a light dusting of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky depth that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.

Side Dishes

This dish shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette to balance the richness. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli are also fantastic choices, cutting through the creamy texture with their slightly charred, earthy flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the cheesy chicken pasta in hollowed-out mini bell peppers or baked tomatoes for individual portions. Alternatively, transfer it to a beautiful baking dish, top with extra cheese, and broil for a few minutes to create a golden, bubbly crust—everyone will be captivated by this cozy presentation!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, transfer your Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe Recipe into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors develop beautifully overnight, making it just as delicious the next day. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing

This dish freezes well, though the texture of the pasta might soften upon thawing. To freeze, portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible, and label with the date. Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal taste and texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking. Add a splash of milk or water if the sauce feels too thick. Microwaving works too; just cover loosely and heat in short bursts, stirring in between to keep it creamy and smooth.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese for this recipe?

Absolutely! While white cheddar gives a great sharpness and melt, you can experiment with cheeses like mozzarella for extra stretchiness, gouda for smokiness, or even parmesan for a nutty depth. Mixing cheeses can create an even more complex flavor profile.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Not as written, because it uses all-purpose flour and regular pasta. However, you can swap in gluten-free flour blends for the roux and use gluten-free pasta to make this dish friendly for gluten-sensitive eaters without sacrificing taste.

How can I add more vegetables to this pasta?

Great idea! Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas can be stirred in with the sauce and chicken to add color, nutrients, and texture. Adding veggies also helps balance the richness of the cheesy sauce.

What wine works best in the sauce?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio is perfect because it adds acidity and freshness without overpowering the other flavors. If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth or even white grape juice can be a substitute.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To adapt this to a dairy-free diet, substitute butter with a dairy-free margarine or olive oil and use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. Swap the cheddar for a dairy-free cheese alternative that melts well, though the texture and flavor will differ slightly.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients combined with a little love and care create something truly special. From the tender chicken and perfectly al dente pasta to the dreamy, cheesy sauce, every bite feels like a warm hug. I can’t wait for you to make it, share it, and enjoy all the smiles it brings around your table!

Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 13 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

Print Recipe

Description

A creamy and cheesy chicken pasta dish featuring tender chicken breasts seasoned with herbs, combined with a rich white cheddar cheese sauce, and served with perfectly cooked short-cut pasta. This comforting recipe is perfect for a satisfying dinner that blends savory flavors with a hint of spice.

Instructions

Prepare the seasoning: In a small bowl, combine dry mustard, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well to create a seasoning blend.
Season the chicken: Slice chicken breasts into thin strips or cut into 1-inch cubes and sprinkle evenly with the seasoning mixture to ensure flavorful meat.
Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for several minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside on a plate.
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the short-cut pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the roux and sauce base: In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute to make a roux. Add white wine, minced garlic, diced onion, and Dijon mustard; stir and cook for 3-5 minutes until onions soften.
Add milk and thicken sauce: Slowly pour in whole milk in several additions, stirring continuously. Cook on low heat for 4-6 minutes until the sauce thickens gently.
Incorporate cheese: Add grated white cheddar cheese to the sauce and stir until fully melted and creamy.
Combine everything: Return the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the skillet. Stir well to coat everything with the cheesy sauce evenly.
Serve: Plate the cheesy chicken pasta immediately, then garnish with fresh thyme leaves and sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a touch of heat and extra flavor.

Notes

Use rotini or other short-cut pasta to help hold the creamy sauce better.
For a spicier kick, increase crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
Dry white wine can be substituted with chicken broth if preferred.
Ensure to cook pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with sauce.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing, Boiling, Simmering
Cuisine: American