Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this cheesy chicken pasta. Tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy tomato sauce topped with melty cheese come together in this delicious and satisfying dish. Whether you’re having a cozy dinner after a long day or a relaxed weekend lunch, this cheesy pasta is the way to go. It’s a meal that’s as comforting as it is flavorful, making it a must-try for any pasta lover.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cheesy chicken pasta isn’t just delicious; it’s easy to make and customizable to suit your tastes. Here’s why you’ll love it:

Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and just a 35-minute cook time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a hassle-free weekend meal.
Customizable: Change up the pasta shape, cheese, or even add vegetables to fit your preferences.
Comforting and Indulgent: The creamy tomato sauce and cheesy topping will make every bite feel like a warm hug.
Leftovers for Days: This dish stores well, and reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy it the next day, too!

Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

250g pasta (uncooked)
2 tablespoons oil (neutral or olive oil)
4 cloves garlic (minced)
275g boneless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon oregano
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon chili sauce or sriracha (optional)
130ml milk (about 1/2 cup + 1 tablespoon)
110ml double cream (about 1/4 cup + 3 tablespoons)
100g mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
100-120ml pasta water (about 1/2 cup)

Directions

Boil the Pasta: Bring a pot of water to a boil, adding salt and a little oil. Cook the pasta until al dente (firm with a little bite), then drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water for the sauce.
Cook the Garlic: In a large pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until golden.
Cook the Chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 3-4 minutes until the chicken turns white.
Add Seasonings and Tomato Paste: Sprinkle the chicken with salt, black pepper, red chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and oregano. Stir in the tomato paste and sriracha (if using). Let this cook for 1 minute.
Make the Sauce: Pour in the milk and cream. Stir, cooking over medium-high heat until the mixture begins to bubble.
Add Cheese: Gradually stir in the mozzarella cheese until melted and fully incorporated into the sauce.
Add Pasta Water: Slowly add the reserved pasta water to the sauce. Stir and bring to a boil to thicken the sauce.
Combine the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and stir to coat it completely. Top with extra cheese, cover the pan, and cook over low heat until the cheese melts on top.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve your cheesy chicken pasta immediately, garnished with extra cheese if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian meal.
Cheese Options: While mozzarella is the classic choice, feel free to experiment with cheddar, gouda, or a blend of cheeses for a richer flavor.
Spice Levels: For a spicier version, increase the amount of sriracha or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low-medium heat. Add a splash of milk or cream to keep the sauce creamy and prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

Can I add vegetables to this cheesy chicken pasta?

Yes, feel free to add sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the sauce for added texture and flavor.

How can I make the sauce spicier?

Add red chili flakes or cayenne pepper for more heat, or stir in some fresh diced chili peppers when cooking the garlic.

Can I make the sauce creamier?

For an even creamier sauce, use all heavy cream instead of milk, or add mascarpone or cream cheese for extra richness.

Can I use leftover chicken in this recipe?

Absolutely! Shredded or chopped leftover chicken works great in this dish. Simply add it to the sauce and heat through before adding the pasta.

Can I prepare this dish in advance for a party?

While it’s best served fresh, you can cook the pasta and chicken separately, then prepare the sauce ahead of time. Reheat everything together when you’re ready to serve.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, use plant-based cream (like coconut cream) and dairy-free cheese substitutes to make the dish dairy-free.

How can I make this recipe without cream?

If you’d prefer a lighter version, simply skip the cream and use more milk, though the sauce will be thinner.

What oil should I use for cooking?

A neutral oil like sunflower oil works well, but you can also use olive oil for a slightly richer flavor.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients, but make sure to use a large enough pan to accommodate the increased volume.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cheesy chicken pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, and reheat with a splash of milk or cream.

Conclusion

This cheesy chicken pasta is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a crowd, it’s a comforting meal that comes together quickly and is sure to please. The rich, creamy tomato sauce and melted cheese will leave you craving more, and it’s easily adaptable to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!