Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Cook Chicken: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add cubed chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Make Roux: Add butter to the skillet and let it melt. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
- Build Sauce: Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, a little at a time, ensuring no lumps form. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and comes to a gentle simmer.
- Season and Add Cheese: Stir in salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika (if using). Reduce heat to low. Add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese. Stir constantly until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the cheese sauce. Add the cooked and drained pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the cheesy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately.
Full Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for flavor depth)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni work well)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Shopping List
- Produce: 1 medium onion, 2 cloves garlic, Fresh parsley
- Dairy & Eggs: 4 tbsp unsalted butter, 2 cups milk (whole or 2%), 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Meat: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Pantry: 1 tbsp olive oil, 4 tbsp all-purpose flour, 1 cup chicken broth, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp onion powder, 1/4 tsp smoked paprika, 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni)
Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Variations & Serving Ideas
This hearty cheesy chicken pasta truly shines as a complete meal, bringing smiles all around. To balance its comforting richness, consider serving it alongside a simple, crisp green salad dressed with a tangy homemade vinaigrette – perhaps something bright and lemony. And no small town meal is complete without a side to sop up every last drop of that glorious sauce! Warm, crusty garlic bread or a thick slice of country sourdough is an absolute must. For a charming presentation, serve generous portions in cozy individual bowls or a large family-style serving dish, finishing with a fresh sprinkle of bright green parsley and a generous dusting of extra Parmesan. Leftovers are a real treat, packing well for lunch the next day; just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, a splash of milk or chicken broth will help bring the sauce back to its creamy best.
From our small town kitchen to yours, I sincerely hope this Cheesy Chicken Pasta brings a heap of comfort and smiles to your table. There’s a special kind of magic in a homemade meal, especially one brimming with cheesy goodness, that truly nurtures the soul. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try; I promise it’s worth every single moment. Come back and share your thoughts in the comments below – I absolutely adore hearing about your kitchen adventures and how these recipes bring joy to your home! #CheesyLunchIdeas #NoodleRecipesCheesy #CheeseFoodIdeas #EasyGoodFoodRecipes #RecipeIdeasPasta #WhatShouldIEatForDinner #PastaLunchRecipes #FoodIdeasPasta #DeliciousLunch
