Welcome to our easy and delicious recipe for Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta. This cheesy, comforting dish blends tender chicken, hearty pasta, and a rich white cheddar sauce for a meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy: Velvety white cheddar sauce coats every bite.
- One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes, more flavor.
- Customizable: Easy to adapt with your favorite pasta or add-ins.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz rotini (or pasta of your choice)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated white cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
1. Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
2. Cook the Pasta
Cook pasta in a separate pot according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce
In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute more.
Whisk in flour to form a roux, then slowly add chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for 3-5 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
Stir in cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Combine and Serve
Add cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet, stirring until fully coated in the sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Serving Ideas
- Pair with a crisp green salad and vinaigrette
- Serve alongside garlic bread or a crusty baguette
Recipe Variations
- Quick Version: Use pre-cooked chicken and store-bought white cheddar sauce.
- Casserole Style: Layer the pasta, chicken, and sauce in a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and extra cheese, and bake at 375°F until bubbly.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta is a go-to recipe when you’re craving comfort food. With just one pot and a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a satisfying and flavorful meal in under an hour. Perfect for any day of the week!
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