Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta – Easy & Delicious Comfort Food
This Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, velvety white cheddar sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort. The sharpness of the white cheddar pairs beautifully with the savory chicken, while a hint of garlic and herbs elevates the entire dish.
Imagine twirling your fork through perfectly cooked pasta coated in a luscious, creamy sauce that clings to every bite. The golden-brown chicken adds protein and texture, making this a satisfying meal that will please the whole family. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving something indulgent, this Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Quick Recipe Highlights
- Flavor Profile: A perfect balance of sharp white cheddar, savory chicken, and aromatic garlic creates a rich, satisfying taste.
- Texture: Creamy sauce coats al dente pasta, while tender chicken pieces add a delightful contrast.
- Aroma: The scent of melted cheese, garlic, and herbs will fill your kitchen and whet your appetite.
- Visual Appeal: Golden chicken pieces nestled in creamy pasta make for an inviting, Instagram-worthy dish.
- Skill Level Needed: Beginner-friendly with simple techniques anyone can master.
- Special Equipment: Just a large skillet and basic kitchen tools are required.
Recipe Overview
- Difficulty Level: This Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta is rated easy because it uses straightforward cooking methods and common ingredients. Even novice cooks can achieve excellent results.
- Category: Perfect as a main course for dinner, but also works well for lunch meal prep.
- Cuisine: A modern American dish with Italian pasta influences and classic comfort food elements.
- Cost: Budget-friendly using pantry staples and affordable proteins.
- Season: Excellent year-round, but particularly comforting during cooler months.
- Occasion: Ideal for family dinners, date nights, or potluck gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The combination of flavors in this Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta is simply irresistible. The sharpness of the white cheddar provides depth, while the chicken adds protein to make it a complete meal. Unlike many pasta dishes that rely on heavy cream, this version achieves its creaminess through a clever combination of milk and cheese, making it slightly lighter without sacrificing richness.
From a practical standpoint, this recipe is incredibly convenient. It comes together in about 30 minutes, uses one pan for the sauce and chicken (minimizing cleanup), and requires ingredients you likely already have on hand. The flexibility to use different pasta shapes or add vegetables makes it adaptable to what’s in your fridge.
Nutritionally, this dish provides a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. By using whole wheat pasta if desired and controlling portion sizes, you can enjoy this comfort food while maintaining a balanced diet. The chicken adds lean protein, while the cheese provides calcium and satisfying fats.
For entertaining, this Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to double for larger groups, and the presentation is impressive enough for guests. Serve it with a simple salad and crusty bread for a complete meal that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Cost-wise, this recipe makes excellent use of affordable ingredients. Chicken thighs or breasts work equally well, and the sauce ingredients are pantry staples. Compared to ordering similar dishes at restaurants, you’ll save significantly while often getting better quality ingredients and portion sizes.
The Recipe
Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken cubes and cook until golden brown and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to make a roux. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Bring sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Reduce heat to low.
- Stir in white cheddar cheese until completely melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Add cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes to heat through.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Recipe Notes
- For extra flavor, try adding 1/2 tsp dried thyme or rosemary to the sauce.
- Substitute half the milk with chicken broth for a deeper flavor profile.
- Add vegetables like broccoli or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.