Cheesy Chicken Pasta Dinner Recipe for a Perfect Meal 2025
Cheesy Chicken Pasta Dinner is a dish that always feels like comfort in a bowl. The first time I made it, the aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil filled the kitchen, the chicken turned golden and tender, and the pasta became coated in a rich cheese sauce. This recipe is very yummy food that works as an easy recipes dinner pasta for busy nights or as a cheesy chicken pasta meal for a cozy family gathering. If you are looking for healthy lunch ideas with chicken or cooking recipes for lunch that taste indulgent, this one belongs on your table.
Cheesy Chicken Pasta Dinner
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add cubed chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until browned and fully cooked.
- Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, and milk. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in pasta, cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until the sauce turns creamy.
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Nutrition
Notes
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Why you will love cheesy chicken pasta dinner
Cheesy chicken pasta dinner is quick, creamy, and always satisfying. Here are the best reasons to try it:
- It is ready in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
- The cheese sauce pasta blends cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan for irresistible flavor.
- It works for both dinner and as healthy lunch noodles the next day.
- Kids love it as very yummy food while adults enjoy the rich and comforting taste.
- It adapts easily into other cooking recipes for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients for cheesy chicken pasta meal
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes / Substitutions |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | Butter can also be used |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced | Fresh garlic gives best flavor |
| Chicken breasts | 1 lb, cubed | Chicken thighs also work |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Season to preference |
| Pasta | 16 oz | Penne, rotini, or fusilli |
| Chicken broth | 1/2 cup | Vegetable broth works too |
| Heavy cream | 1/2 cup | Rich and silky sauce base |
| Milk | 1/2 cup | Balances the creaminess |
| Cheddar cheese | 1 cup, shredded | Sharp cheddar for bold taste |
| Mozzarella cheese | 1/2 cup, shredded | Gooey texture |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/4 cup, grated | Adds nutty, salty depth |
| Fresh parsley | 2 tbsp, chopped | Garnish for freshness |
How to make cheesy chicken pasta step by step
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add cubed chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until browned and fully cooked.
- Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, and milk. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in pasta, cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until the sauce turns creamy.
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
How to serve cheesy chicken pasta meal
Cheesy chicken pasta meal is filling on its own but can be elevated with sides:
- Add roasted vegetables like broccoli or peppers for a healthy balance.
- Pair with a salad for healthy lunch ideas with chicken.
- Serve with garlic bread for a comforting cheesy chicken pasta dinner.
- Reheat leftovers into healthy lunch noodles with a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Pro tips for cheesy chicken pasta dinner
- Use freshly shredded cheese for smooth melting.
- Cook pasta slightly under al dente to finish cooking in the sauce.
- Stir cheese gradually into the hot sauce for a silky texture.
- Add spinach or mushrooms for a nutrient boost.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Adding cheese to boiling sauce can make it clump. Add at a gentle simmer.
- Overcooking chicken makes it dry. Cook until just tender.
- Skipping seasoning leaves the dish flat. Salt and pepper are essential.
- Using only one cheese misses out on the three-cheese depth that makes this very yummy food.
Storage and reheating instructions
Cheesy chicken pasta dinner keeps well for later meals:
| Storage | Method | Duration |
| Refrigerator | Airtight container | Up to 3 days |
| Freezer | Freeze in single portions | Up to 2 months |
Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of milk or broth to bring back the creamy cheese sauce pasta.
Frequently asked questions
Can I make cheesy chicken pasta meal ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat with a little milk for creaminess.
Can I use different pasta shapes?
Yes, penne, rotini, fusilli, or shells work well in this easy recipes dinner pasta.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Use whole wheat pasta, light cream, or add vegetables for one of your healthy lunch ideas with chicken.
Can I replace the chicken?
Yes, turkey or rotisserie chicken makes a great substitute.
Final thoughts on cheesy chicken pasta dinner
Cheesy chicken pasta dinner is creamy, hearty, and satisfying. It is a cheesy chicken pasta meal that always feels like a perfect meal. Whether you are planning cooking recipes for lunch, searching for healthy lunch noodles, or craving very yummy food for the whole family, this recipe will become a favorite. Save it now so you can enjoy a comforting cheese sauce pasta any time.
