Looking for a quick and satisfying dinner? The Best Cheesy Chicken Pasta is a creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly comforting dish that will please the entire family. Packed with juicy chicken, rich cheese sauce, and tender pasta, this one-pot recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or when you’re simply craving something indulgent and easy.
Ingredients for the Best Cheesy Chicken Pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 chicken breasts, diced
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup milk
8 oz uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow work well)
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon butter (optional for extra creaminess)
Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish
Substitutions for Cheesy Chicken Pasta
Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta or whole wheat pasta as needed.
Chicken: Swap for rotisserie chicken, leftover grilled chicken, or turkey.
Cheese: Any melty cheese works—try gouda, Monterey Jack, or fontina.
Milk: Substitute with half-and-half or non-dairy milk for lactose-free options.
Chicken broth: Vegetable broth works in a pinch.
How to Make the Best Cheesy Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the diced chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Cook for 6–8 minutes, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Liquids
In the same pan, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Pour in the chicken broth and milk, then bring to a gentle boil.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Add uncooked pasta directly into the pan. Stir, reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes or until the pasta is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
Step 4: Add Chicken and Cheese
Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, and butter. Mix until everything is melted and combined into a rich, creamy cheese sauce.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Top with fresh herbs and serve hot. Optional: add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Mix-ins and Custom Add-Ons
Vegetables: Add spinach, broccoli, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Bacon: Crispy bacon bits make a savory, salty addition.
Hot sauce: Add a few dashes for a spicy kick.
Breadcrumb topping: Sprinkle with toasted breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for texture.
Cream cheese or sour cream: For an extra creamy texture, stir in a tablespoon of either.
Tips for the Best Cheesy Chicken Pasta
Grate your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents and doesn’t melt as smoothly.
Use a large skillet or Dutch oven: It helps cook everything evenly and holds all the deliciousness.
Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook until just tender; it will continue to soften slightly in the hot sauce.
Low and slow for cheese: Once you add cheese, keep the heat low to prevent clumping or separation.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Microwave with a splash of milk or broth to keep the sauce creamy.
Freeze: Best frozen without the pasta (just the sauce and chicken). Add freshly cooked pasta when reheating for the best texture.
Recipe Variations
Spicy Cheesy Chicken Pasta: Add chopped jalapeños, pepper jack cheese, or a swirl of sriracha.
Buffalo Style: Toss in buffalo sauce and blue cheese crumbles for a tangy twist.
Tex-Mex Cheesy Chicken Pasta: Add taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and top with crushed tortilla chips.
One-Pot Alfredo Cheesy Chicken Pasta: Use a white Alfredo sauce base and stir in your favorite Italian cheeses.
FAQs – The Best Cheesy Chicken Pasta
Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes! Shredded rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken works perfectly.
Q: What kind of pasta is best for this recipe?
Short pasta like penne, fusilli, or elbows hold the creamy sauce well.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, just store it in the fridge and reheat with a splash of broth or milk to bring back the creaminess.
Q: How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply swap in gluten-free pasta and double-check that your broth and seasonings are gluten-free.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe
This truly is The Best Cheesy Chicken Pasta—it’s hearty, family-friendly, easy to make, and loaded with flavor. With just a handful of ingredients and one pan, you can create a creamy, cheesy masterpiece that’s perfect for any night of the week.
the best cheesy chicken pasta
Equipment
- Large skillet
- pot
- colander
- Wooden spoon
- cheese grater
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast shredded or diced
- 12 oz pasta penne or rotini
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Stir in the flour and whisk continuously for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Slowly add milk and cream, whisking until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Stir in paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add cooked chicken and pasta into the skillet, stirring well to coat.
- Mix in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until fully melted and creamy.
- Simmer for 3–4 minutes until everything is heated through and the sauce is thick.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and extra cheese if desired.
Notes
- For extra spice, add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- You can substitute half-and-half for cream for a lighter version.
