Cheesy Chicken Pasta – Creamy, Comforting, and Easy to Make

When it comes to comfort food pasta, few dishes are as satisfying as a warm, creamy bowl of Cheesy Chicken Pasta. Rich, velvety sauce, tender pieces of chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta come together in one irresistible dish that feels like a cozy hug in every bite.

Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or preparing something comforting for a weekend dinner, this creamy chicken pasta recipe delivers big flavor with simple ingredients. It’s hearty, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make.

If you’re searching for an easy chicken pasta dinner that pleases both kids and adults, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Chicken Pasta

There are countless pasta recipes out there, but this one stands out for a few simple reasons:

• Ultra creamy cheese sauce
• Tender, juicy chicken
• Family-friendly flavors
• Minimal prep time
• Perfect for leftovers
• Customizable with your favorite add-ins

It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent but is made with everyday ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.

What Makes This Recipe So Creamy?

The secret to the best cheesy chicken pasta is layering flavors and textures:

1. A smooth roux-based cheese sauce for richness.
2. Freshly grated cheese for superior meltability.
3. Reserved pasta water to create silky consistency.

The result? A sauce that clings to every piece of pasta and coats the chicken beautifully.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or rigatoni)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole milk preferred)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken and warm through if pre-cooked. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
5. Slowly pour in milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Add heavy cream and cook until the mixture thickens (about 3–5 minutes).
6. Reduce heat to low and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and smooth.
7. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes if using.
8. Add cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss until evenly coated.
9. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Cheesy Chicken Pasta

A creamy and comforting cheesy chicken pasta made with tender chicken and a rich homemade cheese sauce.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 520

Ingredients

  

• 12 oz pasta
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast diced
• 3 tbsp butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
• 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese grated

Equipment

• Large pot
• Large skillet
• Whisk

Method

 

1. Cook pasta until al dente and reserve pasta water.
2. Prepare roux with butter and flour.
3. Whisk in milk and cream until thickened.
4. Add cheeses and melt until smooth.
5. Combine pasta and chicken, adjust consistency, and serve.

Notes

Add reserved pasta water to loosen sauce if needed.

Optional: Turn It Into Baked Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Want a golden, bubbly top?

Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle extra shredded cheese on top and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until melted and lightly golden.

This transforms it into a delicious baked cheesy chicken pasta that’s perfect for gatherings.

Best Pasta Shapes to Use

Short pasta shapes work best because they hold onto creamy sauces:

• Penne
• Rotini
• Shells
• Rigatoni

Their ridges and curves trap the sauce for maximum flavor in every bite.

Tips for Perfect Results

Use Freshly Grated Cheese

Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.

Don’t Overcook the Pasta

Cook just until al dente since it will continue cooking slightly in the sauce.

Add Vegetables for Balance

Spinach, broccoli, peas, or mushrooms blend beautifully into this dish.

Season Gradually

Cheese already contains salt, so taste before adding extra.

Flavor Variations

This creamy chicken pasta recipe is wonderfully adaptable:

Make It Spicy

Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.

Add Bacon

Crispy bacon bits add smoky depth.

Make It Lighter

Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.

Add Italian Flair

Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this cheesy chicken pasta with:

• Garlic bread
• Simple green salad
• Roasted vegetables
• Steamed broccoli

It’s filling on its own, but a crisp side dish adds balance.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat:

• Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk.
• Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Busy Families

Between work, school, and daily life, we all need reliable comfort food recipes that don’t require complicated steps.

This easy chicken pasta dinner:

• Uses one skillet
• Comes together quickly
• Feeds a crowd
• Reheats beautifully

It’s budget-friendly and endlessly customizable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare fully, refrigerate, and reheat when ready to serve.

Can I use a different cheese?

Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Colby are great alternatives.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food pasta — creamy, rich, and incredibly satisfying. It’s easy enough for weeknights yet delicious enough to serve guests.

Once you make this creamy chicken pasta recipe, it will quickly become a go-to favorite in your meal rotation.

Warm, cheesy, and packed with flavor — this is the kind of meal everyone asks for seconds of.