Cheesy Chicken Pasta
A heartwarming family favorite with creamy sauce, tender chicken, and pasta that embodies comfort food.
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 2 cups penne pasta (or any pasta shape you prefer—fusilli works beautifully)
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced Substitute with grilled shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Mix in some mozzarella for an extra stretchy vibe.
- 1 cup heavy cream Greek yogurt can replace it for a lighter dish.
- 1 cup chicken broth Use vegetable broth if you prefer.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced The more, the merrier!
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning Or your favorite herb blend.
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish Optional, but adds a lovely touch.
Instructions
Preparation
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Sauté until the chicken is golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Lower the heat and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for an additional minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and then the heavy cream, stirring until everything is well combined. Let it simmer gently for about 3 minutes to thicken.
- Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta and Italian seasoning. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
Tips include adding vegetables like spinach or broccoli, using different cheeses for unique flavors, and adding a splash of lemon juice before serving for a refreshing touch.