Cozy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta That’s Perfect for Busy Nights
Are you looking for a cozy, comforting meal to warm you up and make your taste buds sing? This Cozy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta is precisely what you need.
It’s creamy and cheesy, packed with tender chicken wrapped in a rich, velvety sauce. Perfect for busy nights or when you’re craving something delicious and comforting!
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if you prefer)
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine works great)
- 1 ½ cups shredded white cheddar cheese (freshly shredded for the creamiest sauce)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: A pinch of cayenne pepper or Dijon mustard for a bit of heat or tang
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your pasta and cook according to the package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once it’s tender, drain and set aside. Reserve a little pasta water in case the sauce needs thinning later!
2. Cook the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, season both sides of your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat a tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter melts and starts to sizzle, add the chicken.
Cook for 6-7 minutes per side or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Once done, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and slice it into bite-sized pieces.
3. Make the Creamy White Cheddar Sauce
Melt the remaining tablespoon of butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant.
Be careful not to burn it! Next, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Now, stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once it’s simmering, slowly add the shredded white cheddar cheese, constantly stirring until it melts into a smooth, creamy sauce.
Taste it and season with salt and pepper as needed. If you want a little extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for subtle heat or tang.
4. Combine the Pasta and Chicken
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce and toss to combine, ensuring every piece is coated in that dreamy white cheddar sauce.
Add the sliced chicken and stir everything together. If the sauce is too thick, splash some reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
5. Garnish and Serve
Plate your cozy pasta and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or thyme on top for a burst of color and flavor. If you’re feeling extra cheesy, you can even add more cheese!
Tips for the Best Cozy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta:
- Cheese Tip: For the creamiest sauce, always shred your cheddar yourself! Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly.
- Flavor Boost: To give the sauce a little extra zing, add a pinch of cayenne or a dollop of Dijon mustard.
- Veggie Add-ins: Try throwing some spinach or broccoli for a pop of color and nutrition. Both go wonderfully with the creamy sauce!
- Make Ahead: This dish will stay in the fridge for several days. To bring it back to life, just reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of cream.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Cozy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta is easy to make and a total crowd-pleaser. The rich and creamy sauce coats the pasta perfectly, while the chicken adds a satisfying protein punch.
It’s an excellent recipe for a family dinner or when you need something hearty and comforting. Plus, it’s flexible—you can easily swap out the chicken for shrimp or add some veggies.
So try this creamy pasta next time you crave something cozy and indulgent. Your taste buds will thank you!
