Description
Craving the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet twist? This White Cheddar Chicken Pasta brings together tender pan-seared chicken, creamy white cheddar cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked penne pasta for a dish that tastes like a restaurant-quality meal made right at home. It’s rich, cheesy, peppery, and beautifully balanced with smoky seasoning and fresh herbs. Whether you’re looking for quick dinner ideas, a cozy meal to impress, or something that pleases both picky eaters and foodies alike, this easy recipe hits all the right notes. Ideal for easy dinners, weeknight cravings, and irresistible food ideas that are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
2 large chicken breasts, sliced into strips
2 cups uncooked penne pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 3/4 cups milk (whole or 2%)
1 cup heavy cream
1 1/2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional: sun-dried tomato paste or roasted red pepper sauce for topping
Instructions
- Cook penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season chicken with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet, cook chicken on both sides until golden and fully cooked. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and whisk in flour to form a roux.
- Gradually add milk and cream while whisking to create a smooth sauce.
- Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly.
- Top with sliced chicken, optional sauce, and fresh parsley. Serve hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner