Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Let’s be honest—cheesy chicken pasta is basically a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you’ve had a long day at work, are juggling kids, or just want something cozy without spending all night in the kitchen, this dish has your back. It’s creamy, dreamy, packed with flavor, and made with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Plus, if you’ve got picky eaters (ahem, looking at my own dinner table here), this one’s usually a universal win.

And did I mention how well it reheats? It’s like comfort food’s gift that keeps on giving.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Chicken Pasta

If comfort food had a fan club, cheesy chicken pasta would be president. It’s the kind of dish that hits every note: creamy, savory, cheesy (obviously), and just indulgent enough to feel special—even on a weeknight.

Here’s why it might just become your next go-to:

  • Quick enough for busy nights
  • Filling enough for hearty appetites
  • Fancy-feeling without the fuss
  • Great for leftovers (hello, dreamy next-day lunch!)

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these pantry and fridge staples, and you’re already halfway to dinner success:

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine work beautifully)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

(If you’re already picturing all that cheese melting into cream… you’re not alone.)

How to Make Cheesy Chicken Pasta

No culinary degree needed. Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a creamy pasta masterpiece on the table in under 40 minutes.

1. Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Toss in your pasta and cook until al dente (about 8–10 minutes).
  • Drain and set aside.

2. Season & Cook the Chicken

  • Pat your chicken dry and sprinkle both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Sear the chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked.
  • Remove from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

3. Make That Cheesy Dream Sauce

  • In the same skillet, melt the butter.
  • Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer for 2–3 minutes.
  • Add mozzarella and Parmesan, stirring until melted into a smooth, cheesy sauce.

4. Combine & Serve

  • Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet and coat it in all that creamy goodness.
  • Add the sliced chicken and stir everything together for 2–3 minutes, until warmed through.
  • Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
  • Serve immediately (while it’s still gloriously gooey and hot!).

Quick Tips for the Creamiest Cheesy Chicken Pasta

  • Don’t overcook the chicken: Juicy chicken = happy dinner.
  • Use freshly grated cheese if you can—it melts better and adds a richer flavor.
  • Feel free to jazz it up: Add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick.
  • Leftovers? Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to bring back the saucy texture.

My Cheesy Chicken Pasta Story

This recipe came to life on one of those nights—you know, when the fridge feels like a barren wasteland and everyone’s asking, “What’s for dinner?” I tossed together some pasta, chicken, cream, and cheese… and voilà, magic happened. My kids went back for seconds (and thirds), and my husband swore it tasted like something from a restaurant. Now it’s a regular in our dinner rotation—and I hope it becomes one in yours, too.

Creamy cheesy chicken pasta with grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, and basil in a black bowl
A comforting bowl of cheesy chicken pasta topped with juicy grilled chicken and sweet cherry tomatoes—perfect for any weeknight dinner.

FAQs About Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely. Rotini, penne, bowtie—anything that can hold onto the cheesy sauce is a winner here.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of cream or milk to bring back the sauce.

Can I add vegetables?

Of course. Broccoli, peas, spinach, or even mushrooms would be delicious. Just sauté them after the chicken and before the sauce.

Is there a lighter version?

Of course. Broccoli, peas, spinach, or even mushrooms would be delicious. Just sauté them after the chicken and before the sauce.

Conclusion

There’s something so soul-soothing about a big bowl of cheesy chicken pasta—it’s like the culinary equivalent of fuzzy socks and a warm blanket. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just want something decadent without the drama, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

Trust me: once you try it, it’s going to be one of those “keep this on hand forever” recipes. ❤️

Let me know how it turns out for you—and don’t forget to snap a pic and tag @ChickenMagicRecipes on social. I love seeing your creations!

More Cheesy & Flavor-Packed Chicken Recipes to Explore

If this cheesy chicken pasta has you craving even more comfort food magic, you’re in for a treat. Whether you’re looking for cozy casseroles, fresh pasta twists, or mozzarella-loaded goodness, here are a few more recipes from Chicken Magic that pair perfectly with tonight’s dinner vibes:

  1. Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta – A smooth, cheesy dish with a delicate ricotta touch, this is another one of our fan favorites when you want pasta night to feel just a little extra luxurious.
  2. Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Pasta – Bite-sized, buttery chicken paired with rich pasta? Yes please. It’s a great alternative for when you want big flavor in little bites.
  3. Baked Ricotta Chicken – This oven-baked beauty layers creamy ricotta and juicy chicken with Italian flair. It’s the kind of dish you serve when you want minimal effort but maximum applause.
  4. Bruschetta Chicken Pasta – If you’re into vibrant tomato flavors and fresh herbs, this recipe brings all that brightness to your plate—with pasta and chicken still at the heart of it all.

Give these a try next and keep the comfort food flowing all week long!

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Creamy cheesy chicken pasta with grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, and basil in a black bowl

Cheesy Chicken Pasta


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  • Author: Aneta
  • Total Time: 35 mins
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This creamy, comforting cheesy chicken pasta is the ultimate weeknight dinner! Loaded with tender chicken, rich cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a meal your whole family will request on repeat.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts

  • 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine recommended)

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp onion powder

  • 1/2 tsp salt

  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 tbsp butter

  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

  • Optional: cherry tomatoes and basil leaves for garnish


Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

  2. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente (8–10 minutes). Drain and set aside.

  3. While pasta cooks, season chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

  4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 6–7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.

  5. Remove chicken from skillet and let rest before slicing into strips or bite-sized pieces.

  6. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer for 2–3 minutes.

  7. Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.

  8. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.

  9. Stir in the sliced chicken and cook 2–3 minutes until everything is heated through.

  10. Garnish with fresh parsley (and optional cherry tomatoes and basil). Serve hot.

Notes

For extra flavor, use freshly grated cheese.
Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for a veggie boost.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.

  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 25 mins
  • Category: Dinner , lunch
  • Method: Stovetop

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 610 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 540 mg
  • Fat: 35 g
  • Saturated Fat: 19 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 40 g
  • Cholesterol: 155 mg

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