Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta Ultimate
This Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food. Tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta are coated in a luscious, creamy cheese sauce. It's a satisfying and flavorful dish that's sure to please.
Equipment
- Large bowl
- Large skillet
- Large pot
- Colander
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lb pasta penne, rotini, or your favorite shape
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is nicely coated.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until it's fully cooked through and lightly browned. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken pieces.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package directions for al dente.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside. Don't rinse it!
- In the same skillet you used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Slowly pour in the milk and chicken broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until it starts to thicken slightly.
- Reduce the heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy and cheesy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the cheese sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to thin it out.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere or provolone. For a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce. You can also add cooked vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrients. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding milk or broth if needed.