Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that combines juicy chicken, dreamy creamy sauce, and an avalanche of melty cheese, this Cheesy Chicken Pasta is it! Each bite delivers the perfect balance of savory, gently spiced chicken and irresistibly gooey cheese, all tangled up with tender pasta — it’s pure coziness in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll fall in love with how easily this Cheesy Chicken Pasta comes together using humble ingredients. Each element brings something special—juiciness, depth, or that signature cheesy pull—so don’t skip out on these!

• Pasta (250g, uncooked): Go for your favorite shape; penne, fusilli, or rotini trap all that creamy sauce in every curve.
• Oil (2 tbsps): Helps sauté the garlic and chicken, adding a light richness and golden flavor.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic gives a punch of aroma that’s the first layer of flavor in your sauce.
• Chicken (275g, bite-sized pieces): Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thigh both work wonderfully—just cut them small so they cook quickly and soak up those spices.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning both your chicken and the final sauce; adjust to taste!
• Red Chilli Powder: Adds a gentle heat—if you like things milder, cut it back or skip it.
• Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: Boost the savory, “can’t-put-my-finger-on-it” flavor without overwhelming the sauce.
• Paprika: Gives subtle smokiness and a knockout color.
• Oregano: Dried oregano brings just a hint of Italian herb charm to the mix.
• Tomato Paste (2 tbsps): Thickens the sauce and adds a beautiful savory depth and color.
• Chilli Sauce/Sriracha (1 tsp): Kicks up complexity with a touch of tangy heat—swap for your favorite hot sauce if you like!
• Milk (130ml): The base of your creamy sauce—use whole milk for best results, but any milk works.
• Double Cream (110ml): For a decadent, restaurant-worthy texture that coats every bite.
• Mozzarella Cheese (100g + extra): The hero ingredient! Go for freshly grated if you can for maximum meltiness.
• Pasta Water (100-120ml): Saves all the starchiness from your pasta to bind and gloss up your sauce.

Variations

This Cheesy Chicken Pasta is like a blank canvas for your cravings and creativity. Feel free to mix it up with what’s already in your kitchen, or adapt the recipe to match your dietary needs—deliciousness is guaranteed either way!

• Swap the Protein: Try diced turkey, sliced sausage, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist—just adjust cooking times as needed.
• Add Veggies: Stir in baby spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms with the chicken for pops of color and added nutrition.
• Switch Up the Cheese: Blend in some cheddar or parmesan with the mozzarella for deeper, nuttier flavors.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check that all other ingredients suit your needs.

How to Make Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Start by adding your pasta to a pot of salted water with just a dash of oil. Cook it until it’s perfectly al dente—firm but not stiff, so it can hold together when you toss it in that luscious sauce later. Make sure to save some pasta water before draining!

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

While the pasta cooks, heat the oil in a wide pan and add the minced garlic. Resist the urge to walk away—stir constantly over medium heat for about a minute, just until the garlic turns beautifully golden and fragrant. This is your flavor foundation!

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add your chopped chicken to the pan. Let the pieces cook for 3–4 minutes over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until they’re just white on the outside but still wonderfully juicy inside. This way, you lock in that succulence before adding spices.

Step 4: Season Generously

Time to flavor bomb! Sprinkle in your salt, black pepper, red chilli powder, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and oregano. Mix everything well so that each piece of chicken is kissed with spice and layered aroma.

Step 5: Add Tomato Paste & Sriracha

Squeeze in the tomato paste and sriracha, letting them sizzle for about a minute. They’ll deepen the sauce’s color and add a bold hit of tang and gentle warmth right at the start.

Step 6: Make the Creamy Sauce

Slowly pour in the milk and cream, stirring continuously as everything transforms into a silky, rich sauce. Let it bubble for about a minute—watch how it thickens and becomes irresistibly glossy!

Step 7: Stir in the Cheese

Add the mozzarella (save some for the final topping!) and stir gently until it melts completely. The sauce will become stretchy, cheesy, and just begging for pasta.

Step 8: Loosen with Pasta Water

Gradually add the reserved pasta water—a little at a time—until the sauce reaches your desired creaminess. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly; this step helps the sauce cling to the pasta perfectly.

Step 9: Combine & Melt More Cheese

Fold in the drained pasta, tossing until every piece is thoroughly coated. Sprinkle with extra mozzarella, cover the pan, and let it all melt together over low heat for an ultra-cheesy finish.

Step 10: Serve & Savor!

Lift the lid, let the melted cheese tempt you, and dish out heaping bowls while it’s piping hot. Cheesy Chicken Pasta is at its ooziest best right now—dig in and enjoy every gooey, flavor-packed bite!

How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

A generous scatter of chopped fresh parsley or basil instantly brightens your Cheesy Chicken Pasta and brings out its savory notes. A final dusting of cracked black pepper or even a pinch of red chili flakes gives just the right finishing touch for spice lovers!

Side Dishes

This pasta shines alongside simple sides: crisp garlic bread for dipping in extra sauce, a light green salad tossed with tangy vinaigrette, or roasted vegetables to round out the meal. Each option lets the star—your pasta—shine while offering a fresh contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, spoon your Cheesy Chicken Pasta into individual ramekins, top with extra cheese, and pop under the broiler for a bubbly, golden finish. Or, serve family-style straight from the skillet with tongs for that cozy, shared-table feel!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover Cheesy Chicken Pasta cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and tuck it into the fridge. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic lunch or dinner again later in the week.

Freezing

You absolutely can freeze this dish! Divide cooled pasta into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge and note the sauce may need an extra splash of milk when reheating to regain its creamy texture.

Reheating

Warm leftovers in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a tablespoon or two of milk or cream as needed to bring the sauce back to life. The microwave works too—use short bursts and stir often for the best, creamiest result.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Chicken Pasta is more than just a weeknight dinner — it’s a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or treating yourself to something ultra-comforting, you’ll be amazed how easily it comes together and how quickly it disappears. Give it a try tonight — you’ll be hooked after just one bite!

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