White Cheddar Chicken Pasta RECIPE
Looking for a comforting, creamy dish that can be whipped up in just 30 minutes? This Cheesy Chicken Pasta recipe is just what you need! With tender pasta, succulent chicken, and a rich, gooey cheese sauce, this meal brings together everything you love in a single, hearty bowl. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner at home, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
The secret to this Cheesy Chicken Pasta lies in its simplicity. A handful of pantry staples come together to create a dish that’s rich in flavor and comfort. Each bite offers a burst of flavor from the creamy cheese sauce, punctuated by the subtle heat of red peppers and the savory notes of garlic. Finished with a hint of ranch seasoning, it’s the ultimate fusion of creamy and cheesy goodness.
Whether you’re an experienced cook or a kitchen novice, this easy Cheesy Chicken Pasta is designed to be foolproof. It’s all about layering flavors and letting the ingredients shine, making it a perfect recipe for any home chef looking to impress without the stress.
Key Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Pasta
- Penne Noodles – The perfect pasta for soaking up all that creamy, cheesy sauce.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds a rich base flavor and helps sauté the vegetables to perfection.
- Red Peppers – Brings a subtle sweetness and a pop of color to the dish.
- Minced Garlic – Infuses the sauce with a deliciously aromatic base.
- All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the sauce to a luscious, creamy consistency.
- Milk – Forms the base of the cheese sauce, adding creaminess without heaviness.
- Cheddar Jack Cheese – The star of the dish, providing gooey, melty goodness and a sharp flavor.
- Chicken Breast – Adds protein and texture, making the dish satisfying and hearty.
- Ranch Seasoning Powder – Elevates the flavor with its blend of herbs and spices.
- Pepper – For a touch of warmth and seasoning to taste.
Easy Steps to Your Perfect Cheesy Chicken Pasta
- Cook the penne noodles according to package instructions, then drain them and set aside.
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the diced red peppers and sauté for 1-2 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and flour, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant and the flour is lightly browned.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, cooking on medium heat until the sauce begins to thicken. Add 2 cups of shredded cheese and stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Mix in the cooked pasta, chicken, ranch seasoning, and ¾ cup of cheese. Stir until everything is well coated with the sauce. Season to taste with pepper.
- Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of cheese over the top, cover the skillet, and let it sit until the cheese has melted. Serve hot and enjoy!
Recipe Tips for the Best Cheesy Chicken Pasta
- To save time, use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken instead of canned chicken.
- For a lighter version, swap out whole milk with a lower-fat option or unsweetened almond milk.
- Add some heat by incorporating a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the sauce.
- For a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the pasta and broil for 2-3 minutes.
Variations to Try
This Cheesy Chicken Pasta is endlessly adaptable. Try substituting the chicken with cooked shrimp or even sausage for a different twist. For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, or spinach. Serve with a side salad or garlic bread to round out the meal.
Storing Leftovers Like a Pro
To store any leftovers, transfer the cooled Cheesy Chicken Pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to help maintain the creamy texture. You can also freeze this dish for up to 2 months; simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.
Enjoy your comforting bowl of Cheesy Chicken Pasta, knowing it’s ready in no time and packed with flavor!
White Cheddar Chicken Pasta Recipe
Zutaten
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning powder
- ½ cup diced red bell peppers
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 – 12.5 ounce can of chunk chicken breast well drained (or 1 ½ – 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- Pepper to taste
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 3 cups shredded cheddar jack cheese divided
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar jack cheese for topping
Anleitungen
- Cook the penne pasta following the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced red peppers and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until slightly softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and all-purpose flour, cooking for another 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, cooking until the mixture begins to thicken. Add 2 cups of the shredded cheddar jack cheese and stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Incorporate the cooked pasta, drained chicken, and ranch seasoning powder into the skillet, mixing well. Add ¾ cup of the shredded cheese and stir until evenly distributed. Season with pepper to taste.
- Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of cheese over the top, cover the skillet, and allow the cheese to melt. Serve warm.