If you’re on the hunt for a cozy, flavor-packed dinner that brings bold textures and indulgent comfort in every bite, Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta is about to become your go-to meal! This dish is a beautiful medley of tender chicken, a silky dreamy sauce, melty cheese, and a crispy, golden topping that completely transforms ordinary pasta. Weeknights, family gatherings, potlucks—this recipe fits right in. Let’s dive into what makes this pasta so unforgettable!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best part about this recipe is how its simple ingredients, each chosen for their unique role, come together in perfect harmony. You’ll love how every component adds something special—flavor, texture, or that irresistible finishing touch.
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini): These shapes are perfect for holding onto that luscious sauce in every bite!
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or chopped): Use leftover roasted chicken or grab a rotisserie for maximum tenderness and convenience.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This adds a subtle fruity depth and helps soften those onions beautifully.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Because pasta just isn’t complete without a kick of aromatic garlic.
- 1 small onion (diced): Delivers sweet savoriness as the flavor base of your sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The magic behind that creamy, velvety sauce that makes every mouthful sing.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Balances the richness and enhances the chicken’s savory notes.
- ½ cup sour cream: Brings in delightful tang and extra silkiness for a robust, rounded sauce.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: For that hefty, melty, gooey factor that makes this pasta so comforting.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty punch and a hint of salty sharpness.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: The herb mix that ties all the flavors together effortlessly.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for bringing all the other ingredients to life.
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers or panko breadcrumbs: The key to that crave-worthy crunchy topping—use what you love best!
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: ensures your topping crisps up with golden color and rich flavor.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish: A sprinkle of freshness and color right before serving.
How to Make Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain well, and set the pasta aside—you want it ready to toss with the creamy goodness the moment the sauce is done.
Step 2: Build That Flavorful Base
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until it’s softened and slightly translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute—your kitchen’s about to smell amazing!
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
Add the cooked chicken to the skillet, followed by the heavy cream, chicken broth, sour cream, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Stir gently and watch as everything melts together into a luscious, smooth sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste so every bite of your Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta sings with perfect flavor.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add your cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing gently so every piece is coated in the velvety, cheesy sauce. Don’t rush this part—the more evenly you mix, the more rewarding each creamy bite will be!
Step 5: Make and Add the Crunchy Topping
In a small bowl, mix your choice of crushed buttery crackers or panko breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture all over the top of your pasta, making sure it’s well distributed so you get a perfect crunch in every forkful.
Step 6: Toast the Topping (Optional)
If you’d like an extra-crispy, golden finish, transfer your pasta to a broiler-safe dish and slide it under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes. Keep a close eye on it—the topping will brown fast and deliver that irresistible crunch!
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped parsley on top, adding a burst of color and freshness. Serve your Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta warm, and get ready for serious table excitement!
How to Serve Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta
Garnishes
The final sprinkling of fresh parsley does so much—it adds a pop of green, a hint of herbal brightness, and immediately makes your Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta look restaurant-worthy. For even more pizazz, try dusting on a bit of extra Parmesan or a twist of freshly ground black pepper right before serving.
Side Dishes
This pasta is hearty on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted asparagus for freshness. Want a little extra comfort? Warm up some garlic bread or a flaky dinner roll to mop up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Take Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta into star territory by baking it in individual ramekins for a dinner party or serving it in colorful bowls so every bite feels extra-special. For a twist, stir in some cooked veggies like peas or spinach, or offer a topping bar where everyone can add their favorite crunch—think seasoned breadcrumbs, fried onions, or even crushed pretzels!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The crunchy topping may soften a bit, but the flavors will mingle and deepen—often making the pasta taste even better the next day!
Freezing
To make this dish freezer-friendly, prepare the pasta and sauce without the crunchy topping and allow it to cool completely. Transfer to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge, add the topping, and bake or broil until hot and crispy.
Reheating
For best results, reheat leftovers in the oven or toaster oven at 350°F, covered loosely with foil. This helps restore some of the “crunch” and keeps the sauce from drying out. If you’re short on time, a microwave works too—just add a splash of milk or broth to keep things creamy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! Swap in mozzarella for a stretchier melt or try Monterey Jack for a milder flavor. Just be sure to keep a balance of melty and flavorful cheeses for the best Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta experience.
What’s the best way to make this dish gluten-free?
Pick your favorite gluten-free pasta shape and substitute gluten-free cracker crumbs or panko for the topping. Double-check your chicken broth just in case—it’s an easy way to make this comfort food accessible for everyone.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Stir in steamed broccoli, peas, or chopped spinach with the pasta for a built-in veggie boost without changing the texture or flavor profile of your Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
If you’re out of sour cream, plain Greek yogurt is a great substitute—it adds a similar tang and thickness, keeping your sauce luscious and smooth.
Does this pasta work for meal prep?
Yes! Simply assemble the dish without the crunchy topping, refrigerate, and then add the topping and bake right before serving. It’s a fantastic make-ahead dinner that tastes fresh with a quick finishing touch.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re making dinner for a crowd or just want something truly soul-soothing at the end of a long day, Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta delivers comfort by the bowlful. I can’t wait for you to try it—grab your favorite pasta, pile on the crunch, and savor every creamy, crispy mouthful!
Print
Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy and crunchy goodness of this Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta. A comforting dish that combines tender pasta, savory chicken, and a rich cheese sauce topped with a buttery, crispy crust. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
Chicken Mixture:
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or chopped)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Crunchy Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers or panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil pasta until al dente, then drain.
- Prepare Chicken Mixture: Sauté onion and garlic, then add chicken, cream, broth, sour cream, cheeses, and seasoning. Combine with cooked pasta.
- Add Topping: Mix crackers or breadcrumbs with butter. Sprinkle over pasta.
- Bake: Broil briefly for a crispy top.
- Garnish and Serve: Add parsley before serving.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken is a time-saving option.
- Include steamed broccoli or peas for added vegetables.
- To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and cracker crumbs.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 560
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 460 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 44 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 105 mg
