Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta Recipe

There's nothing quite like a warm bowl of Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta to bring comfort to a busy weeknight. This dish features tender, juicy chicken tossed with perfectly al dente pasta and coated in a velvety, rich white cheddar sauce. The result is a meal that's simple, satisfying, and undeniably delicious.

I discovered this recipe when looking for a way to use up some extra white cheddar cheese from a weekend cheese board. What began as a casual kitchen experiment has become one of our go-to meals, especially on evenings when we crave something cozy and flavorful.

Let’s dive into why this recipe will become a favorite in your dinner rotation.

Why You'll Love This Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite comfort food. This Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta checks all the boxes: it's quick, easy, and full of flavor that the whole family will love.

First of all, this recipe is a breeze to make. From start to finish, it takes just 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver on those busy weeknights when you need dinner on the table fast. Despite the minimal effort, the creamy, decadent sauce tastes like something you'd get at a fancy restaurant.

Next, it’s incredibly budget-friendly. Using simple pantry staples and white cheddar cheese, you can create a satisfying meal without breaking the bank. Even better, the ingredients are flexible, allowing you to adjust based on what you have available or to suit your preferences.

This dish is also crowd-pleasing and versatile. It appeals to both kids and adults, and you can easily add in extra vegetables, swap proteins, or even experiment with different types of pasta.

With a recipe this easy and delicious, you'll wonder why you didn't make it sooner.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta lies in its simple yet high-quality ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors.

• Pasta: I recommend using rigatoni, penne, or fusilli. Their sturdy shapes and ridges are perfect for holding onto the creamy white cheddar sauce. While you can use any pasta you have on hand, these options ensure the best sauce-to-pasta experience.
• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work wonderfully in this recipe. For maximum flavor, season the chicken generously before cooking. If you’re short on time, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut.
• White Cheddar Cheese: Use a sharp, high-quality white cheddar for the best flavor. Grating the cheese yourself is key, as pre-shredded varieties often contain additives that prevent smooth melting. The cheese’s tangy, creamy profile takes the sauce to the next level.
• Heavy Cream and Milk: These create the luscious base of the sauce. The heavy cream adds richness, while the milk keeps it from being overly heavy. For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half, but the sauce will be less indulgent.
• Garlic and Onion: Freshly minced garlic and finely diced onion add a subtle yet delicious base flavor to the dish. Make sure to sauté them until they’re fragrant and translucent for the best result.

No special equipment is needed for this recipe, just a large pot for boiling pasta and a sturdy skillet for the chicken and sauce.

How To Make This Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta

Creating this mouthwatering pasta dish is simpler than you might think. Here’s how to make it step by step.

1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook until it’s just al dente, then drain and set aside. Save about a cup of pasta water – it can be a lifesaver for adjusting the sauce’s consistency later.
2. Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, season your chicken pieces generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the chicken in a single layer. Let it cook undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add a bit more olive oil if necessary. Sauté your diced onion until it’s soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Melt the Cheese: Slowly add the shredded white cheddar, stirring continuously to ensure it melts smoothly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if you like an extra layer of flavor.
5. Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet, tossing everything to coat in the creamy sauce. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.

This dish comes together in under half an hour, making it perfect for weeknights. The creamy, cheesy sauce clings beautifully to every bite of pasta and chicken, creating a dish that's equal parts cozy and decadent.

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem! This Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta stores beautifully, so you can enjoy it later.

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it cools, but you can easily loosen it with a splash of milk when reheating.
• Freezer: If you want to freeze it, transfer the cooled pasta into freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a bit of milk or cream to bring back the creaminess of the sauce.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some ideas to customize your Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta:

• Swap the Protein: Try cooked shrimp, crispy bacon, or even sliced sausage for a different take. If you prefer a vegetarian version, sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables make excellent substitutes.
• Add Veggies: Stir in baby spinach, chopped broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes for an added nutritional boost and flavor. Simply add them to the sauce until they’re tender.
• Use Different Cheese: While white cheddar is the star, you can mix things up by using a blend of cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or Parmesan for a unique flavor profile.
• Herb It Up: Fresh herbs like chopped parsley, chives, or thyme add a burst of freshness. Sprinkle them over the finished dish for a bright contrast to the rich sauce.

Don't be afraid to experiment and make this dish your own. The possibilities are endless, and you're sure to discover your own favorite version. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!

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