Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta

Craving a pasta dish that combines creamy goodness with tender chicken? Look no further than this White Cheddar Chicken Pasta recipe. It’s a delightful meal that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Just imagine twirling your fork around creamy pasta coated in a rich white cheddar sauce, paired with juicy chicken pieces. What could be better?

This dish is not just about flavor; it’s also about comfort. The creaminess of the white cheddar envelopes the pasta perfectly, creating a rich and satisfying experience. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress.

Overview of White Cheddar Chicken Pasta

This dish brings together tender pieces of chicken and al dente penne pasta, all enveloped in a creamy white cheddar sauce. The combination of flavors is both comforting and satisfying, making it a favorite for any pasta enthusiast.

The smooth, rich sauce coats each piece of pasta perfectly, ensuring that every forkful delivers a delicious bite. Topped with fresh parsley, this dish not only tastes fantastic but also looks impressive, making it suitable for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Cooking the Perfect Pasta

To achieve the ideal texture, it’s essential to cook the penne pasta until it reaches the al dente stage. This means the pasta should be firm to the bite, providing a delightful contrast to the creamy sauce.

Using a generous amount of salted boiling water will enhance the pasta’s flavor. Once cooked, draining the pasta allows it to be combined with the sauce without becoming overly mushy. This step is crucial in maintaining the integrity of the dish.

Preparing the Chicken

The chicken breast plays a vital role in this recipe, adding protein and flavor that complements the creamy sauce. Dicing the chicken into even pieces ensures that it cooks uniformly, allowing for a perfect golden brown exterior.

Cooking the chicken with olive oil over medium heat helps to lock in juiciness while achieving a delicious sear. Finishing with minced garlic elevates the dish further, infusing it with an aromatic touch that pairs beautifully with the cheddar sauce.

Creating the Creamy White Cheddar Sauce

The heart of this dish lies in its rich sauce. Starting with heavy cream, the base is enriched further by incorporating shredded white cheddar cheese that melts seamlessly into the cream.

It is essential to keep the heat low once the cheese is added to prevent separation, ensuring a smooth, velvety texture. Stirring gently will help achieve that perfect creamy consistency that envelopes the pasta and chicken.

Bringing It All Together

Combining the cooked pasta with the chicken and creamy sauce is where the magic happens. Tossing everything together allows the flavors to meld, coating each piece of pasta thoroughly with the sauce.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add an exciting kick. Once mixed, the dish is ready to be served, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This White Cheddar Chicken Pasta is best enjoyed hot, right after it’s prepared. Pairing it with a side salad or garlic bread complements the richness of the dish, providing a fresh and crunchy contrast.

A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, can enhance the dining experience, balancing the creamy flavors beautifully. Whether enjoyed on a busy weeknight or as part of a cozy gathering, this dish is sure to impress with its comfort and flavor.

Deliciously Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta Recipe

This creamy white cheddar chicken pasta is a delightful blend of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a smooth, cheesy sauce. It’s indulgent yet comforting, making it a fantastic choice for any pasta lover.

Ingredients for the White Cheddar Chicken Pasta

• 8 ounces penne pasta
• 1 pound chicken breast, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions for the White Cheddar Chicken Pasta

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Make the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes before adding the shredded white cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
4. Combine: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is coated in the creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning with red pepper flakes, if desired.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: 580kcal
• Fat: 30g
• Protein: 40g
• Carbohydrates: 45g