There’s nothing quite as comforting as a heaping bowl of Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta, where silky ribbons of cheese sauce cling to every twist of tender pasta, hugging juicy bites of chicken. This dish is the epitome of cozy and indulgent—all in under 40 minutes! It’s perfect for busy weeknights but special enough to make loved ones feel totally spoiled. Whether you’re looking to impress, feed a crowd, or just treat yourself after a long day, Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta will soon be your go-to for a truly satisfying meal.

Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love about this recipe is how simple, easily found ingredients come together to make pure magic. Each one plays a key role in creating the dreamiest, creamiest texture and irresistible flavor. Don’t skip any, as together they build that rich backbone every bite needs!

Pasta (12 oz penne or rotini): The perfect vehicle for soaking up all the velvety sauce; both shapes capture every bit of cheesy goodness.
Chicken Breasts (1 pound, boneless & skinless): Tender, bite-sized pieces that bring protein and heartiness to the dish.
Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Helps the chicken get that beautiful golden crust and adds a gentle fruity note.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the sauce with aromatic depth, making every mouthful pop.
Butter (2 tablespoons, unsalted): Builds the base of your roux, lending a rich, creamy undertone.
All-Purpose Flour (2 tablespoons): Thickens the sauce so it clings lovingly to chicken and pasta alike.
Milk (2 cups): Ensures a luscious, pourable sauce without extra heaviness.
Heavy Cream (1 cup): Takes the creaminess factor to the next level—it’s non-negotiable for that dreamy finish.
Mozzarella Cheese (1½ cups, shredded): Melty, stretchy, and ultra cheesy; this is what makes those epic cheese pulls.
Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated): Adds bold, salty, nutty notes and helps tie the whole sauce together.
Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon): Brings a blend of herbs that make the sauce truly sing.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Brightens flavors and punches up the seasoning.
Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds that subtle kick and warmth that keeps you coming back.
Chopped Parsley (for garnish, optional): Fresh, green, and eye-catching—optional but recommended for a restaurant-worthy presentation!

How to Make Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling your pasta in well-salted water until just al dente, following the package directions. You want the noodles to still have a tiny bite—they’ll finish up in the sauce later. Once cooked, drain and set aside. Don’t worry about rinsing; a little pasta starch helps the sauce cling!

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add the chicken chunks, seasoning them with salt and pepper right away. Let them cook undisturbed for a couple of minutes so they get that beautiful golden color, then toss and keep sautéing until fully cooked—about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside for now (it’ll join the party again soon!).

Step 3: Build the Cheesy Sauce Base

Using the same skillet, drop in your butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sizzle it for 30 seconds—just until fragrant. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw taste, stirring constantly so it doesn’t brown. It’ll look like a thick paste and smell a bit nutty; that’s the foundation of your Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta dreams!

Step 4: Whisk in Dairy for Creaminess

Now, slowly whisk in milk and heavy cream, making sure to pour gradually as you stir to prevent lumps. Turn up the heat slightly, bring to a gentle simmer, and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens to a silky texture. This creates that luscious, coat-your-spoon consistency you’re after.

Step 5: Add the Cheese and Seasonings

Reduce the heat to low and stir in your shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture turns into a pool of irresistible creamy, cheesy sauce. Season with additional salt and black pepper if needed. Marvel at how smooth and glossy it’s become!

Step 6: Bring It All Together

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, followed by the drained pasta. Toss everything together—the goal is to make sure every bite is generously bathed in that cheesy sauce. Let it warm through for a minute or two so the flavors mingle. If you want to sneak in cooked veggies or swap the protein, this is your moment!

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley if you want a pop of color and freshness. Spoon Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta into bowls and serve up immediately while the cheese is at its meltiest best. Get ready for those happy sighs at the table!

How to Serve Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley does wonders, adding bright color and a fresh note that balances the richness of this Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta. For extra oomph, try an extra dusting of Parmesan or a twist of freshly cracked black pepper just before serving.

Side Dishes

A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette keeps things light and complements the silky, cheesy sauce. Garlic bread or warm breadsticks are perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce. Roasted or steamed veggies like broccoli or asparagus are also fantastic to round out your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn dinner into an occasion by serving Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta in shallow pasta bowls with a swirl of extra sauce on top. For family style, heap it into a large serving platter, garnish generously, and let everyone help themselves. You can also fill individual ramekins, top with extra cheese, and broil for a bubbly, golden finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (lucky you!), transfer your cooled Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta into an airtight container and refrigerate. It stays delicious for up to 3 days and actually tastes even better after the flavors meld together. Be sure to reheat gently for the creamiest results.

Freezing

This cheesy pasta freezes surprisingly well! Just portion leftovers into freezer-safe containers and allow them to cool completely before sealing. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

For a quick lunch or an easy dinner, reheat your Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or cream and stir occasionally to restore the sauce’s dreamy texture and prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While penne or rotini are perfect for soaking up the sauce, you can use any short pasta shape—rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle work beautifully in Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta.

What’s the best way to add vegetables?

Try stirring steamed broccoli, spinach, or peas into the finished pasta for a pop of color and nutrition. Simply add them when you’re combining the chicken and pasta with the sauce, so everything gets coated.

Can I make this dish with leftover chicken?

Yes! Precooked chicken (like rotisserie or leftover roast chicken) is an easy swap—just add it when you return the chicken to the skillet in Step 6, and warm through before mixing with the pasta and sauce.

How can I make this Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta lighter?

If you’re looking to cut back on richness, substitute half-and-half or all milk for the heavy cream, and use reduced-fat cheeses. The dish will remain satisfyingly creamy, just a bit lighter.

Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?

Definitely—choose your favorite gluten-free pasta and swap in a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour to thicken the sauce. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you’ll still have all the flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

If your heart (or stomach) is craving something warm, rich, and satisfying, I can’t recommend Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta enough. It’s pure comfort in a bowl―simple, crowd-pleasing, and always worth every bite. Give it a try this week, and don’t be surprised if it becomes your family’s new favorite!

Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 14 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in a comforting and flavorful dish with this Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta recipe. Tender chicken and al dente pasta are coated in a luscious, cheesy sauce that’s sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta:

12 oz penne or rotini pasta

Chicken:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

Sauce:

1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Garnish:

Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Cook Pasta: Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente; drain and set aside.
Cook Chicken: In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Make Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter, add garlic, whisk in flour, then slowly add milk and cream. Simmer until thickened. Stir in cheeses and seasonings.
Combine: Return chicken to the skillet, add pasta, and toss in the sauce until coated.
Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve warm.