Cheesy Chicken Pasta Delight

Cheesy Chicken Pasta Delight: Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Cheesy Chicken Pasta Delight! This creamy, flavorful dish combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich cheese sauce for a meal your family will love. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 2 large chicken breasts, diced
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
• 4 cups water
• 1 tsp salt

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk, room temperature
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a slight kick)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For Garnish:

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the diced chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and the seasoned chicken pieces.
3. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a large pot. Add 1 tsp of salt.
2. Add your pasta of choice and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Sprinkle the flour into the melted butter and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes to form a roux. This step removes the raw flour taste.
3. Gradually add the milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it thicken for 3-5 minutes.
4. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until fully melted and smooth.
5. Add Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the cheese sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
2. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Transfer the Cheesy Chicken Pasta to a serving dish.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese.
3. Serve hot and enjoy!

Chicken Cheese Pasta | One Pot Chicken Pasta | Pasta Recipes

FAQ:

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne or rotini work great, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the pasta and chicken in advance and store them separately. When ready to serve, reheat the cheese sauce and combine everything. Add a little milk or chicken broth if the sauce thickens too much during storage.

3. Can I substitute the cheeses?

Of course! While cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan create a classic combination, feel free to use Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even cream cheese for a unique flavor.

4. Is there a way to make this dish healthier?

Yes! Opt for whole-grain or legume-based pasta, use reduced-fat cheese and milk, and replace some of the butter with olive oil. You can also add vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.

5. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to revive the creamy texture.

6. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Definitely! Use gluten-free pasta and substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for the roux.

7. What can I serve alongside this dish?

This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.

By following this detailed guide, you’ll master the art of making Cheesy Chicken Pasta Delight, a dish that’s sure to become a household favorite. Enjoy the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness in every bite!