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Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta

Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta
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Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta is a rich and comforting dish combining tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious white cheddar cheese sauce. This easy-to-make recipe delivers gourmet taste with simple steps, perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 chicken breasts (lean, tender protein)

Cheese & Dairy

  • 1 ½ cups shredded white cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 2 tablespoons butter

Pasta

  • 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini recommended)

Aromatics

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids & Seasoning

  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Herbs

  • Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta and Chicken: Cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside. Meanwhile, season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sauté in butter over medium heat until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat and slice or cube the chicken for the pasta.
  2. Build the Flavor Base: In the same pan, add finely chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook over medium heat until translucent and fragrant, forming the aromatic foundation for your cheese sauce.
  3. Make the Cheese Sauce: Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine with the aromatics. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then gradually whisk in shredded white cheddar cheese off the heat, stirring constantly to melt the cheese smoothly without clumping.
  4. Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce: Add the drained pasta and cooked chicken into the cheese sauce, stirring to coat everything evenly. Allow the mixture to heat together for a couple of minutes so the flavors meld perfectly.
  5. Finish and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste, sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, and serve immediately while warm and creamy.

Notes

  • Use sharp white cheddar cheese for maximum flavor.
  • Do not overcook pasta; al dente texture is ideal to hold the sauce.
  • Brown chicken thoroughly for added richness and texture.
  • Slowly add shredded cheese off the heat to prevent sauce separation.
  • Adjust sauce consistency with chicken broth if too thick.
  • Add fresh herbs just before serving to brighten flavor and add color.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy pasta, white cheddar chicken pasta, comfort food, easy dinner, cheesy chicken pasta

Find it online: https://linacorner.com/creamy-white-cheddar-chicken-pasta/