Cheesy chicken pasta is a deliciously comforting dish that brings warmth to any table. This recipe combines tender chicken and rich, creamy cheese sauce with pasta for a delightful meal that is not only satisfying but also quick to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy gathering, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Serve it warm with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying dinner!
Table of Contents
Why You Will Love This Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe
Quick and Easy Preparation
This cheesy chicken pasta comes together in just 15-20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those who love to cook but are short on time. The straightforward steps ensure you can whip up this indulgent dish without any stress.
Customizable Ingredients
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap out ingredients or add your favorite vegetables, making it a great way to use up what you have on hand.
Comforting and Indulgent Flavor
The rich flavors of creamy cheese, savory chicken, and a hint of tang from the tomato paste create an indulgent meal that will leave you feeling satisfied and cozy.
How to Make This Cheesy Chicken Pasta
Cooking the Pasta
Start by cooking the pasta in salted water with a bit of oil until al dente. This ensures the pasta maintains its texture when mixed with the sauce.
Preparing the Chicken and Sauce
In a separate pan, heat oil and sauté minced garlic until golden. Add bite-sized pieces of chicken and season them with spices to create a flavorful base for the sauce.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
Once the sauce is ready and the chicken is cooked, combine everything together for a delightful finish. The creamy sauce will beautifully coat each pasta shell, making every bite a treat!
Cheesy Chicken Pasta Ingredients
Essential Ingredients Overview
- 250g pasta shells (uncooked, about 8oz)
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 275g boneless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces, about 9.6 oz)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon oregano
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional)
- 130ml milk (1/2 cup + 1 tablespoon)
- 110ml double cream (1/4 cup + 3 tablespoons)
- 100g mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping, about 1 cup)
- 100-120ml pasta water (about 1/2 cup)
Optional Ingredients for Customization
- Vegetables of your choice for added nutrition
- Different types of cheese for varied flavor
- Herbs such as basil or thyme for fresh aroma
Step by Step Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
Begin by cooking the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water with a little oil until al dente. Drain and reserve some pasta water.
Sautéing the Garlic and Chicken
In a pan, heat the oil over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until it turns golden. Add the chicken pieces, cooking until they are white and seasoned with salt, black pepper, red chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and oregano.
Making the Creamy Sauce
Mix in the tomato paste and sriracha, stirring well before gradually adding the milk and cream. Continue stirring until the mixture bubbles and the cheese melts into a creamy sauce.
Combining Everything Together
Finally, combine the cooked pasta with the sauce, stirring to coat well. Top with additional cheese, cover, and allow it to cook on low heat until the cheese melts beautifully.
Tips and Notes
Cooking Techniques for Best Results
Always cook the pasta al dente to keep it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce. Adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more pasta water if needed.
Meal Pairing Suggestions
Serve this cheesy chicken pasta with a refreshing side salad, roasted vegetables, or warm garlic bread for a hearty meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of cream to maintain moisture.
Vegetarian and Customization Options
For a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and add in your favorite vegetables. Feel free to swap out types of cheese for different flavors that suit your palate.
FAQs
How long does chicken pasta bake last?
Chicken pasta bake lasts for 3-4 days when stored properly in the refrigerator.
How long to cook cheesy pasta bake?
A cheesy pasta bake typically takes about 15-20 minutes to cook until bubbly and golden.
What to serve with cheesy chicken pasta?
Pair cheesy chicken pasta with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
What herbs are good in cheesy chicken pasta?
Good herbs to use in cheesy chicken pasta include oregano, basil, and thyme for added flavor.
More Delicious Recipes to Try Next
- Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps
- Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
- Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes
- Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Casserole
- Crockpot Chicken Tacos
Conclusion
This cheesy chicken pasta is the perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a go-to recipe for busy nights. For more inspiring recipes and ideas, be sure to check out Elly’s Recipes on Pinterest for a wealth of cooking inspiration. Happy cooking!
Easy Cheesy Chicken Pasta
Equipment
- pot
- pan
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 250 g pasta shells (uncooked)
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 275 g boneless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon oregano
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional)
- 130 ml milk
- 110 ml double cream
- 100 g mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 100-120 ml pasta water
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted water with a bit of oil until al dente, then drain and reserve some pasta water.
- Heat oil in a pan, add minced garlic, and sauté until golden.
- Add chicken pieces to the pan and cook until they turn white.
- Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, red chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and oregano, then mix in tomato paste and sriracha, cooking for about a minute.
- Gradually add milk and cream to the pan, stirring continuously until the mixture bubbles.
- Incorporate cheese into the sauce, mixing gently until melted.
- Add reserved pasta water to the sauce, stirring until it reaches a boil.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce, ensuring it is well-coated, then top with additional cheese and cover to cook on low heat until the cheese melts.
- Serve immediately.