Cheesy Chicken Pasta Dinner

Cheesy Chicken Pasta is the kind of meal I turn to when I want comfort in a bowl and dinner on the table fast. With juicy chicken, a blanket of savory cheese sauce, and just the right bite from al dente pasta, this recipe makes everyone rush to the table with excitement. I love that it brings big flavor with simple steps and ingredients you likely have on hand.

The first time I made this I was hoping to clear out the fridge and avoid a grocery trip but now my family requests it for Sunday dinners and even leftovers disappear by lunchtime the next day

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: choose skinless boneless ones for even cooking and tender bites
• Olive oil: helps sear the chicken and adds richness look for a fresh green aroma
• Dry mustard: gives depth and boosts the cheese flavor opt for a fine powder for easy mixing
• Dried thyme and dried oregano: classic herbs that bring an earthy savory base
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: always season to taste for best results
• Short cut pasta: such as rotini or penne holds creamy sauce in every twist buy high quality pasta if possible
• Butter: essential for a silky sauce use unsalted for better control
• All purpose flour: thickens the sauce and creates that classic creamy texture sift if lumpy
• Garlic and yellow onion: both offer layers of flavor sweetness and a little bite
• Dry white wine: brightens the sauce and adds complexity choose a crisp drinking wine
• Dijon mustard: sharpens the sauce and balances the richness
• White cheddar cheese: sharp intense flavor that melts beautifully select a block and grate by hand for best melt
• Whole milk: creates the creamy base opt for full fat for extra richness
• Fresh thyme: gives a pop of color and a herbal finish use soft lively sprigs
• Crushed red pepper flakes: a pinch for gentle heat shake from a fresh jar for the best kick

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken Seasoning:

Mix dry mustard dried thyme dried oregano salt and pepper in a small bowl until well blended this makes sure every bite of chicken is packed with flavor

Prep and Cook Chicken:

Slice chicken breasts into even strips or cubes sprinkle generously with seasoning mix heat olive oil in a large skillet set over medium high and add chicken pieces cook until golden on each side and cooked through turning as needed about six minutes move to a plate and keep warm

Boil the Pasta:

In a big pot bring salted water to a vigorous boil add your chosen pasta shape cook until just al dente tasting to make sure you do not overcook drain well and set aside

Build the Cheese Sauce Base:

In the same skillet you cooked chicken add butter let it melt over medium heat whisk in flour until fully absorbed and bubbling about one minute add wine scraped to loosen bits on the pan then garlic and onion keep stirring as mixture cooks down and onion softens about four minutes whisk in Dijon mustard for extra tang

Finish the Sauce:

Slowly drizzle in milk whisking constantly to prevent lumps cook on low heat stirring after each addition let it thicken about four to six minutes fold in shredded white cheddar stir until fully melted and velvety

Bring It All Together:

Return cooked chicken and drained pasta to the skillet with sauce toss gently using tongs making sure everything is coated cook for another minute to heat through top with extra fresh thyme and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes serve hot and dig in

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White cheddar is my secret favorite part it melts so smoothly and packs deep flavor I remember grating cheese with my kids for this recipe and sneaking a few bites before mixing it in sometimes the anticipation is half the fun

Storage Tips

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days I recommend reheating on the stove over low with a splash of extra milk to bring back the creaminess Avoid microwaving in high bursts to prevent the sauce from splitting

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have white cheddar feel free to use sharp yellow cheddar or a cheese blend Even mozzarella or Monterey Jack can offer great texture For pasta shapes anything short and sturdy like penne or fusilli helps catch the sauce Use boneless thighs for richer chicken flavor if preferred

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Serving Suggestions

Pair this cheesy pasta with a crisp green salad and a side of garlic bread For a veggie boost stir in steamed broccoli or peas just before serving My family loves this with roasted veggies for a complete meal

Cultural or Historical Context

Creamy pasta dishes like this draw inspiration from classic American comfort food mac and cheese combined with Italian pasta traditions Adding chicken and herbs makes this dish extra hearty and ideal for satisfying modern tastes yet it still feels timeless and cozy

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use different cheeses for the sauce?

Yes, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère for a unique flavor profile.

→ What pasta shapes work best for this dish?

Short-cut varieties such as rotini, penne, or fusilli work well to hold the creamy sauce and chicken pieces.

→ How do I prevent the sauce from splitting or becoming grainy?

Heat the milk slowly and add the cheese off the heat, stirring constantly. Avoid overheating once the cheese is added.

→ Can leftover Cheesy Chicken Pasta be reheated?

Absolutely. Gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.

→ What additions can complement this meal?

Consider including sautéed vegetables like spinach or broccoli, or topping with fresh herbs for extra depth and nutrition.