Description
This Cheesy Chicken Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish perfect for a family dinner. Tender chunks of seasoned chicken are sautéed and combined with cooked pasta, then smothered in a luscious cheese sauce made with cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Flavored with garlic, onion, paprika, and Italian seasoning, this dish is both flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Pasta
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne or rotini)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese Sauce
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the cubed chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and sauté until cooked through and lightly browned, about 6-8 minutes.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: Reduce heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet with the chicken. Stir in paprika and Italian seasoning, simmering gently for 3-4 minutes to let the sauce thicken slightly.
- Add the Cheeses: Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheeses until fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing well to coat the pasta evenly with the cheesy chicken sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute penne or rotini pasta with any short pasta shape you prefer.
- For a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
