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Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta – Best Dinner Recipe

Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta – Best Dinner Recipe

Description

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm, creamy bowl of White Cheddar Chicken Pasta. This quick and easy recipe combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious white cheddar cheese sauce to create an irresistible dish.

Not only is this homemade pasta recipe beginner-friendly, but it also takes just 30 minutes to prepare—making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite pasta shapes, add veggies, or even swap the protein for shrimp!

Let’s dive into how to make the best creamy white cheddar chicken pasta at home.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or rotini)
  • 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 ½ cups white cheddar cheese (shredded)
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Optional Add-Ins:

  • Vegetables: Spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for extra nutrition.
  • Spices: A pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
  • Protein Swap: Use shrimp or turkey instead of chicken.

Pro Tip: Always shred your own cheese for the creamiest sauce. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
  3. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sauté until golden and cooked through (about 5 minutes per side).
  3. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the White Cheddar Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  3. Gradually whisk in the milk and cook until thickened (about 3 minutes).
  4. Reduce the heat to low and add white cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  5. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth.

Step 4: Combine Everything

  1. Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet.
  2. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well-coated in the creamy sauce.
  3. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
  4. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Pro Tip: For an even silkier sauce, add ½ cup of heavy cream instead of milk.

Equipment

Notes

What is the secret to creamy pasta?
Use freshly shredded cheese and mix it into the sauce gradually to prevent clumping.

How do you prevent the sauce from drying out?
Add reserved pasta water a little at a time to maintain a silky consistency.

Can I make this pasta ahead of time?
Yes! Store it in an airtight container and reheat with a splash of milk or cream.

Find it online: https://fenrecipes.com/creamy-white-cheddar-chicken-pasta-best-dinner-recipe/