Description
Cheesy chicken pasta is a creamy, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful seasonings, and rich, melty cheese with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy nights or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz Pasta Shells
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 2 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (cubed)
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 1 tsp Oregano
- 1/2 tsp Chili Powder
- 2 tbsp Tomato Paste
- 1 tbsp Sriracha (optional)
- 1 cup Milk
- 1/2 cup Heavy Cream
- 1 1/2 cups Mozzarella Cheese (shredded)
- 1/2 cup Pasta Water
Instructions
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain, saving 1 cup of pasta water.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add cubed chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
- Stir in garlic powder, paprika, oregano, chili powder, and tomato paste. Cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
- Pour in milk and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer and bubble for 2-3 minutes.
- Add shredded mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Add reserved pasta water to the sauce and stir until it thickens to your desired consistency.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Serve immediately with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add more sriracha or red pepper flakes.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk.
- This dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, add a little extra milk or cream to restore the creamy texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg