White Cheddar Chicken Pasta is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The rich white cheddar sauce pairs perfectly with tender chicken and pasta. Here’s how you can make it:
White Cheddar Chicken Pasta Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your choice)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- 2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional for depth of flavor)
- Fresh parsley or chives (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the White Cheddar Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and cream (if using), making sure the mixture is smooth. Let the sauce cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens.
- Lower the heat and stir in the shredded white cheddar cheese, whisking until melted and creamy. Add the mustard powder for extra flavor if desired.
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Combine:
- Add the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the cheese sauce, tossing everything together until the pasta and chicken are fully coated in the creamy sauce.
- Serve:
- Serve the White Cheddar Chicken Pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve this dish with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the sauce.
- You can also add cooked broccoli or spinach to the pasta for extra veggies.
Enjoy this creamy and cheesy dish! Let me know if you’d like to explore any other flavor combinations or variations!