Nothing beats a warm bowl of cheesy chicken pasta on a chilly evening. It’s rich, satisfying, and perfectly balanced with tender chunks of chicken, smooth tomato cream sauce, and gooey melted cheese. Whether you’re cooking for family or craving a cozy solo dinner, this creamy pasta will steal your heart from the first bite. In this article, you’ll learn how to make it step by step, the secrets to achieving that perfect creamy consistency, and answers to the most common pasta questions.
The Story Behind My Cheesy Chicken Pasta
A Cozy Night and a Cheesy Craving
I first created this cheesy chicken pasta recipe on a rainy evening when I just wanted something warm and comforting. The fridge had leftover chicken, some cream, and mozzarella that was begging to be used. The result? A creamy, velvety dish that instantly became a family favorite. It’s that kind of meal you make once, and everyone asks for it again and again.
Why This Pasta Is So Irresistible
There’s something magical about how the creamy tomato sauce hugs every pasta shell. The tender chicken soaks up all those bold seasonings, while the melted mozzarella brings everything together into a smooth, luxurious bite. What I love most about this cheesy chicken pasta is that it’s quick — ready in under 40 minutes — and perfect for weeknights or gatherings alike. The balance of spice, creaminess, and comfort is simply unbeatable.
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Cheesy Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
This cheesy chicken pasta is the ultimate comfort meal, featuring tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta shells in a velvety tomato cream sauce.
Ingredients
250g pasta, uncooked
2 tbsps oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
275g chicken, bite-sized
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp red chilli powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp oregano
2 tbsps tomato paste
1 tsp sriracha
130ml milk
110ml double cream
100g mozzarella cheese
100ml pasta water
Instructions
1. Boil pasta until al dente, reserve some water.
2. Saute garlic in oil until golden.
3. Add chicken and cook until white.
4. Mix in spices and tomato paste with sriracha.
5. Pour milk and cream, stir until bubbling.
6. Add cheese and melt into sauce.
7. Add pasta water to thin sauce.
8. Stir in cooked pasta and coat well.
9. Sprinkle extra cheese, cover and melt.
10. Serve hot.
Notes
Adjust salt carefully since cheese adds saltiness.
Use fresh mozzarella for best melt.
Add more pasta water if sauce thickens.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0.2g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
Ingredients That Make It Deliciously Creamy
Choosing the Right Pasta and Chicken
For the best texture, use medium pasta shells or penne — they hold the sauce beautifully. As for the chicken, go with boneless, skinless pieces; they cook fast and stay juicy. The combination ensures that each forkful is a perfect balance of sauce, protein, and pasta.
Building the Flavor Foundation
What gives this cheesy chicken pasta its signature flavor is the blend of spices: garlic, paprika, red chili powder, and a touch of oregano. Then comes the tomato paste, milk, and double cream — a trio that transforms into a luscious sauce. Finally, the mozzarella adds that stretch and richness that makes this dish feel indulgent yet comforting. A dash of chili sauce (or sriracha) introduces subtle heat that complements the creaminess.
How to Cook Cheesy Chicken Pasta Like a Pro
Step 1: Perfect Pasta Preparation
Start by boiling your pasta in salted water with a dash of oil. Don’t overcook — stop at al dente. It will continue cooking slightly in the sauce later. The trick? Save half a cup of that starchy pasta water. It’s gold for adjusting sauce consistency later.
Step 2: Cooking the Chicken and Building the Sauce
In a deep skillet, warm oil and sauté minced garlic until golden. Add your chicken pieces, stirring constantly for about four minutes until they turn white. Sprinkle in your spices: salt, pepper, paprika, garlic and onion powder, oregano, and chili powder. Stir well so the chicken absorbs all those bold flavors.
Add tomato paste and a bit of sriracha, cooking for one minute. Gradually pour in milk and double cream, stirring continuously until the sauce starts to bubble. Once thickened slightly, stir in mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Slowly add pasta water to thin it to your desired texture.
Assembling and Serving the Dish
Finishing Touches
Toss in the cooked pasta, making sure each piece is coated with that creamy, cheesy sauce. Sprinkle extra mozzarella on top, cover, and let it sit on low heat until melted. The aroma at this stage is pure heaven — spicy, creamy, and cheesy all at once.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy chicken pasta shines on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables. Serve it hot, straight from the pan. For an extra fancy touch, sprinkle with a bit of fresh parsley or crushed red pepper flakes before serving.
Tips, Variations & Storage
Smart Tips for Perfect Pasta
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Always use freshly grated cheese — it melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties.
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Adjust salt carefully, as both cheese and pasta water already add some saltiness.
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For lighter sauce, swap double cream for half-and-half.
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Want a smoky flavor? Add a pinch of smoked paprika.
Variations You’ll Love
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Cheesy Chicken Spinach Pasta: Stir in baby spinach during the final minute of cooking.
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Spicy Chicken Alfredo Twist: Replace tomato paste with Alfredo sauce for a different creamy kick.
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Cheesy Chicken Penne Bake: Transfer to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and extra cheese, then bake until golden.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
FAQs
1. Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely. Shredded rotisserie chicken works beautifully and saves time.
2. What’s the best cheese for cheesy chicken pasta?
Mozzarella gives that signature melt, but adding a little cheddar or parmesan adds depth of flavor.
3. Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, just use gluten-free pasta. Everything else in the recipe remains the same.
4. Why save pasta water?
It contains starch that helps emulsify the sauce, giving that silky texture every great pasta dish has.
5. Can I freeze cheesy chicken pasta?
Yes, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. Reheat on the stove with a bit of milk or cream.
Conclusion
This cheesy chicken pasta recipe is the definition of comfort food — quick, creamy, and deeply satisfying. Each bite brings a perfect harmony of tender chicken, savory spices, and melting cheese. Whether you’re cooking for family or indulging yourself, it’s a recipe that never disappoints. So grab your pan, follow these easy steps, and make your next dinner deliciously unforgettable.
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