Cheesy Chicken Pasta Dinner (Print-Friendly Format)
Creamy cheese, juicy chicken, and tender pasta combine for a comforting family favorite perfect for busy nights.
# Required Ingredients:
→ Chicken Preparation
01 -
2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
02 -
1.5 tablespoons olive oil
03 -
1 teaspoon dry mustard
04 -
0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
05 -
0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
06 -
Salt, to taste
07 -
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Pasta
08 -
450 grams short-cut pasta
→ Cheese Sauce
09 -
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
10 -
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
11 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
12 -
1 yellow onion, diced
13 -
60 millilitres dry white wine
14 -
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
15 -
225 grams white cheddar cheese, grated
16 -
480 millilitres whole milk
17 -
1–2 tablespoons fresh thyme, plus extra for garnish
18 -
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
# How to Make It:
01 -
In a small bowl, combine dry mustard, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Slice chicken breasts into strips or 2.5-centimetre cubes and toss with seasoning.
02 -
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.
03 -
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add short-cut pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and reserve.
04 -
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Add garlic, onion, dry white wine, and Dijon mustard. Cook for 3–5 minutes until onion softens, stirring frequently.
05 -
Gradually whisk in whole milk in several additions, stirring after each. Simmer on low heat for 4–6 minutes until the sauce thickens. Add grated white cheddar and stir until completely melted. Season with salt to taste.
06 -
Add cooked chicken and pasta to the sauce. Toss until evenly coated and heated through. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh thyme, crushed red pepper flakes, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika if desired.
# Additional Information:
01 -
For best results, grate cheese from the block rather than using pre-shredded varieties to ensure smooth melting.