Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cheesy chicken pasta brings together tender chicken, comforting pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce that’s both tangy and cheesy. It’s an easy recipe that takes just 35 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy nights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The pasta soaks up the creamy sauce, making each bite a flavorful delight. Whether you’re cooking for family or just for yourself, this dish never fails to please. Plus, you can customize the level of heat with the addition of chili sauce or sriracha, making it just the right amount of spicy for you.

Ingredients

• 250g pasta, uncooked (around 8oz)

• 2 tbsps oil

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 275g chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces (around 9.6 oz)

• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to your taste)

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 tsp red chilli powder

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• 1/4 tsp oregano

• 2 tbsps tomato paste

• 1 tsp chilli sauce/sriracha

• 130ml milk (1/2 cup + 1 tbsp)

• 110ml double cream (1/4 cup + 3 tbsps)

• 100g mozzarella cheese + extra to sprinkle on top (1 cup + extra)

• 100-120ml pasta water (around 1/2 cup)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Boil pasta: Add pasta to a pot with some cold water, salt, and a little bit of oil. Cook the pasta until al dente — it should be slightly firm so it doesn’t get too soft once mixed into the sauce.

2. Cook garlic: In a pan, heat oil over medium heat and add minced garlic. Cook for around 1 minute until the garlic turns a light golden color.

3. Cook chicken: Add bite-sized chicken pieces to the pan. Stir and cook over medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes or until the chicken turns white.

4. Add seasonings: Stir in salt, black pepper, red chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and oregano. Mix everything together with the chicken.

5. Add tomato paste: Stir in the tomato paste and sriracha sauce, cooking for about 1 minute over medium-high heat.

6. Make the sauce: Gradually add milk and cream to the pan, stirring as it cooks. Let the mixture bubble for about 1 minute.

7. Add cheese: Stir in mozzarella cheese and mix until melted and incorporated into the sauce.

8. Add pasta water: Gradually add the leftover pasta water to the sauce, mixing it in as it comes to a boil. Continue stirring for about 1.5 minutes until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

9. Add pasta: Once the sauce is thick and creamy, add the cooked pasta to the pan and coat it fully with the sauce. Sprinkle extra cheese on top, cover with a lid, and let it cook over low heat until the cheese melts.

10. Serve: Your cheesy chicken pasta is now ready! Serve immediately and enjoy.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes about 3-4 servings.

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add veggies: Include some spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.

• Use a different cheese: Swap the mozzarella for cheddar, gouda, or any cheese you prefer for a different flavor profile.

• Spicy variation: Increase the amount of sriracha or add red pepper flakes for a more fiery dish.

• Pasta choice: While this recipe uses shell pasta, you can use any type of pasta you like, such as penne, spaghetti, or fusilli.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover cheesy chicken pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of milk or cream to loosen up the sauce. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute any pasta shape you prefer. Penne, spaghetti, or fusilli would all work well.

2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can replace the chicken with tofu, tempeh, or just add extra vegetables to make it a vegetarian meal.

3. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can use dairy-free cheese and swap the milk and cream for plant-based alternatives like almond milk and coconut cream.

4. Can I freeze leftover cheesy chicken pasta?

Yes, you can freeze this pasta, but the texture of the cheese sauce may change slightly after thawing. Store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months.

5. How do I adjust the spice level?

To make the dish spicier, add more sriracha or red pepper flakes. For a milder version, reduce or omit the chili sauce and red chili powder.

6. Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of breast?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs would work great in this recipe. They will add a bit more flavor and moisture to the dish.

7. Can I use a different type of cheese besides mozzarella?

Yes, you can use cheddar, gouda, or parmesan for different flavor profiles. Just choose a cheese that melts well.

8. Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can cook it ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Just make sure to store it properly in the fridge.

9. What should I serve with cheesy chicken pasta?

A light salad or garlic bread pairs beautifully with this creamy pasta dish.

10. Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes, cheesy chicken pasta can be easily stored and reheated, making it a great option for meal prep. Just store it in individual servings for a quick lunch or dinner.

Conclusion

Cheesy chicken pasta is the perfect comfort food, combining tender chicken, creamy sauce, and deliciously cheesy pasta. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal to enjoy with family, this recipe will hit the spot. With its simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a surefire way to enjoy a filling, flavorful dish without much effort. Give it a try, and let this cheesy delight become your new favorite go-to meal!