Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe – Easy One-Pot Comfort Food

There’s just something about cheesy chicken pasta that feels like home. Maybe it’s the warm, creamy sauce that clings to every bite of tender chicken and pasta, or the way melted mozzarella stretches like a dream when you scoop it up. Whatever it is, this dish never fails to deliver comfort. It’s one of those recipes you turn to when you’re craving something cozy, satisfying, and incredibly flavorful—but without spending hours in the kitchen.

This cheesy chicken pasta has become a go-to weeknight dinner in our home. It’s quick to whip up, uses simple pantry ingredients, and the best part? Everyone absolutely loves it. It’s hearty enough for a chilly evening yet light enough that you won’t feel weighed down. The combination of well-seasoned chicken, creamy tomato sauce, and gooey cheese is just unbeatable.

I first stumbled upon a version of this dish during a busy workweek when I had leftover chicken and not much else. A little improvising led to what is now one of our family’s most requested meals. Since then, I’ve refined the recipe to be even easier and more flavorful. It’s now a regular on our menu, especially when we want something that feels a bit indulgent without being complicated.

Whether you’re a beginner cook or someone who knows their way around a skillet, this recipe is designed to be fuss-free and rewarding. The ingredients are flexible, the method is simple, and the final result is always a cheesy, savory masterpiece.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cheesy chicken pasta has a whole lot going for it, and once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a total crowd-pleaser.

First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. With minimal prep and just a few steps, you can have dinner on the table in about 35 minutes. You don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated techniques—just a handful of kitchen staples and one trusty skillet.

The flavor profile is a rich blend of creamy, savory, slightly spicy goodness. The tomato paste gives depth to the sauce, the milk and cream add that irresistible creaminess, and the mozzarella melts beautifully for that perfect cheese pull. Meanwhile, the combination of spices—paprika, garlic powder, oregano, and a dash of sriracha—keeps every bite interesting and bold.

It’s also extremely family-friendly. Kids love the creamy cheese and pasta, and you can easily adjust the spice level to suit everyone’s taste. You can even sneak in some veggies if you want to make it more wholesome—think spinach, mushrooms, or peas.

Flexibility is another major win. You can use any pasta you have on hand, swap chicken with your favorite protein, or even make it vegetarian. The leftovers also reheat beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or next-day lunches.

In short, this is one of those recipes that checks all the boxes: quick, comforting, versatile, and oh-so-satisfying.

Health Benefits

While cheesy chicken pasta is definitely on the indulgent side, it still offers some notable nutritional benefits—especially if you choose quality ingredients and balance it with veggies or a fresh side salad.

Chicken breast provides a lean source of protein, which helps with muscle repair and keeps you full longer. If you opt for chicken thighs, you’ll get more flavor and healthy fats, which are beneficial in moderation.

The tomato paste adds a dose of lycopene, an antioxidant known for its heart-health benefits and cancer-fighting properties. Including garlic and spices like paprika and oregano not only boosts flavor but also contributes to anti-inflammatory and immune-supporting benefits.

Using milk instead of heavy cream for part of the sauce keeps it creamy without overloading on saturated fat. You can even reduce the cheese slightly or use a reduced-fat version to cut down on calories if needed.

Best of all, you can make this dish more nutritious by adding vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. It’s all about balance—comfort food doesn’t have to mean unhealthy, and this dish proves it.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Total Preparation Time: 35 minutes
Active Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 generous portions

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 480
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.

Ingredients List

Protein

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
  Lean, tender, and perfect for soaking up flavor.

Pasta

• 250g (about 2 cups) pasta shells or any short pasta
  Shells are great for holding onto that creamy sauce, but penne, rotini, or fusilli work too.

Sauce Base

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili sauce (optional for heat)
• 1 cup milk
• ½ cup heavy cream or cooking cream
  Creamy, tangy, and just a little spicy—this sauce is the heart of the dish.

Cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  Melts beautifully and adds that classic cheesy pull.

Spices

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon red chili powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  These spices layer in warmth, earthiness, and a little kick.

Extras

• Salt to taste
• ½ cup reserved pasta water
• Chopped parsley or basil for garnish

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until just al dente according to package instructions. Drain, but reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water. Set pasta aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic
   In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant and lightly golden, about 1 minute.
3. Cook the Chicken
   Add the cubed chicken to the skillet. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, red chili powder, black pepper, and salt. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked through and no longer pink, about 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add Tomato Base
   Stir in the tomato paste and sriracha (if using). Let it cook for 2-3 minutes until the tomato paste deepens in color and sticks slightly to the pan.
5. Make the Cream Sauce
   Reduce heat to low. Pour in the milk and cream, stirring constantly to blend with the tomato paste. Let the sauce come to a gentle simmer—do not boil.
6. Melt the Cheese
   Stir in ¾ cup of the shredded mozzarella and mix until fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If it looks too thick, add some reserved pasta water, a splash at a time.
7. Add the Pasta
   Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir well to coat every piece in the creamy sauce. If needed, add more pasta water to loosen the sauce and create a silky finish.
8. Top and Finish
   Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup mozzarella over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese on top melts beautifully.
9. Garnish and Serve
   Finish with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving hot.

How to Serve

• Spoon generous portions into bowls or onto plates.
• Garnish with extra herbs and a light sprinkle of cheese.
• Serve with warm crusty bread or garlic naan to scoop up that extra sauce.
• Add a green salad for balance and freshness.

Pairing Suggestions

To round out your meal, try these complementary pairings:

• Side Dishes: A crisp arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, roasted broccoli, or sautéed green beans.
• Drinks: Serve with sparkling water with lemon or a chilled mocktail for a refreshing touch.
• For Kids: Pair with sweet corn, steamed peas, or soft dinner rolls for a milder meal.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Storage
Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing
Let the pasta cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating
Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Pasta: Remember to keep it al dente so it doesn’t get mushy in the sauce.
• Skipping the Pasta Water: It helps create a silky, well-emulsified sauce.
• Cooking on High Heat After Adding Cream: Can cause the sauce to split—keep it at a gentle simmer.
• Not Seasoning Enough: Taste as you go and adjust spices accordingly.
• Using Low-Quality Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better and gives a smoother finish.

Pro Tips

• Drain Pasta Just Before Mixing: Keeping the pasta hot helps it absorb the sauce better.
• Cut Chicken Evenly: Uniform pieces ensure even cooking.
• Use Rotisserie Chicken for Speed: Just warm it in the sauce before adding pasta.
• Add Vegetables: Toss in spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers during the sauce step.
• Finish Under the Broiler: Pop the skillet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes to brown the cheese topping.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely. Just shred or cube it and heat it in the sauce before adding pasta.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes. Use plant-based milk and a vegan cheese alternative that melts well.

What if I don’t have cream?
Substitute with more milk and add a spoonful of cream cheese or a bit of butter for richness.

Is it okay to use whole wheat pasta?
Definitely. It adds more fiber and works well with the creamy sauce.

Can I freeze this pasta after assembling?
Yes, though for best results, freeze the sauce and pasta separately and combine when reheating.

How do I make it spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, fresh chopped chili, or increase the sriracha.

What other cheese works in place of mozzarella?
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses all work beautifully.

Can I add veggies directly into the sauce?
Yes. Spinach, peas, mushrooms, and bell peppers are all great options.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes. Cook the chicken and sauce ahead, then store separately. Reheat and combine with pasta before serving.

How can I make the sauce thicker?
Let it simmer longer, or add a small amount of grated cheese or a cornstarch slurry.

Conclusion & Call to Action

This cheesy chicken pasta has all the makings of a weeknight hero—quick, flavorful, flexible, and just the right amount of indulgent. It brings together everything we love about comfort food in one pot: creamy sauce, juicy chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and lots of melty cheese.

If you’ve been looking for a reliable pasta recipe that pleases the whole family and doesn’t require a culinary degree, this one is for you. It’s easy enough for beginners and delicious enough to impress guests.

I’d love to know how it turns out for you! When you make it, snap a photo and tag us on social media or leave a comment to share your tips, tweaks, and glowing reviews. Happy cooking!

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