Cheesy Chicken Pasta Dinner

Cheesy Chicken Pasta is the answer whenever my dinner crowd craves a cozy meal that feels both classic and fun. With golden chicken, twisty pasta, and an irresistibly silky cheese sauce, this dish never fails to bring everyone to the table hungry and happy.

The first time I made this on a snowy night my family scraped their plates clean It immediately became our number one last minute comfort recipe

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: Choose firm plump pieces as these offer juiciness and absorb the seasoning so well
• Olive oil: Essential for browning the chicken and adding richness Use a good quality extra virgin oil for best flavor
• Dry mustard and Dijon mustard: Mustards build tang and complexity Look for smooth Dijon with a touch of spice
• Dried thyme and dried oregano: Dried herbs give warm notes but you can use fresh if available for brighter aroma
• Salt and freshly ground pepper: Freshly ground pepper lifts the sauce and the salt helps all other flavors shine
• Short cut pasta: Rotini or penne clings to the sauce so every bite is cheesy Try to pick bronze cut pasta if you can
• Butter: Real unsalted butter melts into the sauce for a velvety finish
• All purpose flour: Needed to thicken the sauce Opt for fresh flour to avoid any mustiness
• Garlic and yellow onion: Garlic adds aroma and onion provides subtle sweetness Pick onions that feel heavy and have tight skin
• Dry white wine: A splash adds a lovely acid note Avoid anything too sweet Go for something drinkable
• White cheddar cheese: Sharp white cheddar melts beautifully and brings bold cheesy character Buy a block and grate yourself for best texture
• Whole milk: Gives the sauce richness and smoothness Use full fat milk for optimal results
• Fresh thyme and crushed red pepper flakes: Fresh thyme perks up the finish While red pepper gives gentle heat

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the Chicken:

Mix dry mustard dried thyme dried oregano salt and black pepper In a small bowl toss the chicken strips or cubes with this mixture making sure every piece gets a generous coating Let it sit for a few minutes to absorb flavor

Brown the Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high Once shimmering add chicken in a single layer Cook without moving for two to three minutes to develop golden color Flip pieces and cook until no longer pink and juicy inside Transfer to a plate and set aside

Boil the Pasta:

Fill a big pot with water and bring to a rolling boil Add a generous pinch of salt and pasta Stir immediately so nothing sticks Cook according to package directions for al dente Then drain completely and set aside

Create the Creamy Sauce:

Using the same skillet over medium heat melt the butter Add flour and cook while stirring until bubbly and just slightly golden about one minute Add garlic onion Dijon mustard and white wine Stir well and let the onion soften and the mixture become fragrant about three to five minutes Slowly add milk in small additions stirring thoroughly after each addition so no lumps form Keep the heat on low and simmer for four to six minutes allowing the sauce to thicken and become smooth

Melt the Cheese:

Scatter shredded white cheddar cheese into the thickened sauce Stir constantly until cheese is melted and sauce is glossy and rich

Combine and Serve:

Stir in the cooked chicken and drained pasta Make sure everything is well coated with sauce Taste and adjust seasoning Spoon into bowls and finish with fresh thyme and a light sprinkle of red pepper flakes Eat right away for best texture

Save

Some pasta recipes are special because of tradition but I love how the sharp white cheddar here makes each forkful taste just a bit more grown up Still this is the recipe that brings my family together for laughter and plenty of seconds

Storage Tips

Cheesy Chicken Pasta keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Reheat in a skillet with an extra splash of milk to help loosen the sauce If you freeze leftovers thaw overnight in the refrigerator then reheat gently to maintain the creamy texture

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap white cheddar for Monterey Jack or mild yellow cheddar if that is what you have on hand Rotisserie chicken can replace the raw chicken breasts in a pinch You can also experiment with whole wheat pasta or gluten free pasta

Serving Suggestions

Round out your meal with a crisp green salad and garlic bread Or serve alongside roasted broccoli for added veggies This recipe is also a star at potlucks since it holds up well and pleases both kids and adults

Cultural Context

Pasta drenched in cheese sauce is beloved in American home cooking but this version owes its sharp punch to English style white cheddar The method of creating a roux based cheese sauce is classic French yet adding chicken makes it a truly comforting American one dish meal

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ What type of pasta works best?

Short-cut pastas like rotini, penne, or fusilli hold the cheese sauce well, offering great texture in each bite.

→ Can I use different cheese varieties?

Yes, try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, sharp cheddar, or a blend for unique flavors and meltability.

→ How do I prevent the cheesy sauce from curdling?

Gradually whisk milk into the roux on low heat and stir constantly as cheese is added until smooth.

→ What are good side dishes for cheesy chicken pasta?

Pair with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a balanced meal.

→ Is it possible to make ahead for busy nights?

Yes, combine cooked components, store in the fridge, and reheat gently with a splash of milk before serving.