There’s something undeniably comforting about a big bowl of Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta. The smooth, velvety sauce clings to every bite of tender pasta and juicy chicken, delivering an explosion of cheesy goodness. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight meal or preparing something special for family and friends, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.

Imagine twirling your fork through al dente pasta coated in a luscious white cheddar sauce, with bites of perfectly seasoned chicken adding extra heartiness. This recipe is perfect for when you want a cozy, homemade meal that’s easy to prepare but still feels gourmet.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta

• Rich and cheesy – Loaded with sharp white cheddar for deep flavor.
• Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
• Kid-friendly – Creamy and mild, making it a favorite for all ages.
• Great for leftovers – Tastes just as delicious the next day!
• One-pan option – Can be made using just one skillet for easy cleanup.

Ingredients for Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz penne or rotini pasta
• 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)

For the White Cheddar Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra depth)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for warmth)

For Garnish:

• ¼ cup freshly chopped parsley
• ½ cup crispy bacon bits (optional)
• Extra shredded white cheddar for topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the White Cheddar Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to remove the raw flour taste.
4. Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to create a smooth mixture.
5. Stir in Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
6. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens.
7. Remove from heat and stir in shredded white cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce.
2. Add the drained pasta and toss to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
3. Sprinkle with crispy bacon bits and chopped parsley for extra flavor.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Dish out the pasta while hot and gooey.
2. Garnish with extra shredded white cheddar for a cheesier finish.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount (Per Serving)
Calories	620 kcal
Carbohydrates	55g
Protein	40g
Fat	28g
Saturated Fat	15g
Sodium	800mg

Tips for the Best Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta

1. Use fresh white cheddar – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents, which can prevent smooth melting.
2. Don’t overcook the pasta – Al dente pasta holds its shape better in the sauce.
3. Thin out the sauce if needed – If it gets too thick, add pasta water or a splash of milk.
4. Let the sauce simmer gently – High heat can cause the cheese to become grainy.
5. Experiment with add-ins – Try mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth.

Variations and Substitutions

1. Spicy White Cheddar Pasta

• Add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.

2. Healthier Version

• Use whole wheat pasta and substitute heavy cream with half-and-half.

3. Vegetarian Option

• Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or roasted broccoli instead.

4. Gluten-Free Adaptation

• Use gluten-free pasta and replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative.

5. Extra Protein Boost

• Stir in grilled shrimp or cooked bacon for additional protein.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta ahead of time?

Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of milk to revive the sauce.

2. Can I freeze this pasta?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it without the cheese sauce. When reheating, make a fresh batch of sauce and mix it in.

3. What’s the best cheese to use?

Sharp white cheddar is ideal, but you can mix it with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for added flavor.

4. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken works well in this recipe.

5. How do I make this dish lighter?

Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream and swap butter for olive oil.

6. What’s the best pasta shape for this dish?

Penne, rotini, or fettuccine work great since they hold the sauce well.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

Now that you have this Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta Recipe, it’s time to indulge in one of the creamiest, cheesiest pasta dishes ever! Whether for a cozy dinner at home or a meal to impress, this dish will surely become a staple in your recipe collection.

Try it today and let us know how you liked it!

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