Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Savor a creamy, Cheesy Chicken Pasta dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful spices, and gooey mozzarella cheese. This comforting meal is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe can be whipped up in just 35 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings.
• Creamy and Delicious: The combination of milk, cream, and melted mozzarella creates a rich sauce that envelops every bite.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this cheesy pasta dish, ensuring everyone around the table is happy.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out chicken for other proteins or add vegetables to tailor the recipe to your family’s preferences.
• One-Pot Wonder: Most of the cooking takes place in one pan, making cleanup a breeze after enjoying your meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Cheesy Chicken Pasta, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or frying pan
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or frying pan: Essential for sautéing garlic and chicken, allowing for even cooking and flavor infusion.
• Pot for boiling pasta: A good-quality pot ensures even heat distribution while cooking pasta to perfection.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients like chicken and garlic efficiently.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 250g pasta, uncooked (around 8oz)

For the Cooking Base

• 2 tbsps oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

For the Chicken

• 275g chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces (around 9.6 oz)

For Seasoning

• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to your taste)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp red chilli powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp oregano

For the Sauce

• 2 tbsps tomato paste
• 1 tsp chilli sauce/sriracha
• 130ml milk (1/2 cup + 1 tbsp)
• 110ml double cream (1/4 cup + 3 tbsps)

For Topping

• 100g mozzarella cheese + extra to sprinkle on top (1 cup + extra)

Additional Ingredient

• 100-120ml pasta water (around 1/2 cup)

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How to Make Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Boil Pasta

Add pasta to a pot with some cold water, salt, and a little bit of oil. Cook pasta until al dente—slightly firm but not overly cooked. This prevents it from becoming too soft once tossed with the sauce.

Step 2: Cook Garlic

In a skillet, warm up some oil over medium heat. Add fresh minced garlic and cook for about one minute until it turns light golden.

Step 3: Cook Chicken

Add bite-sized pieces of chicken to the skillet. Cook over medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes while stirring until the chicken turns white.

Step 4: Seasonings

Add salt, black pepper, red chilli powder, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and oregano. Mix everything well into the chicken.

Step 5: Add Tomato Paste

Stir in sriracha and tomato paste. Continue cooking over medium-high heat for one minute.

Step 6: Making the Sauce

Gradually add milk and cream while stirring continuously. Cook at medium-high heat until bubbling.

Step 7: Add Cheese

Mix in your choice of cheese gently until it melts completely into the sauce.

By following these steps closely, you’ll create a delicious serving of Cheesy Chicken Pasta that everyone will love!

How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Cheesy chicken pasta is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a cozy family dinner or a quick meal for yourself, the serving options are endless.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Basil: Sprinkle fresh basil on top for a burst of flavor and color.
• Parsley Garnish: Add chopped parsley to enhance the dish’s presentation and freshness.

Accompanied by Garlic Bread

• Toasted Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a delightful crunch.
• Garlic Knots: Pair with soft, buttery garlic knots for an irresistible addition to your meal.

With a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and croutons for added texture.
• Mixed Green Salad: Lighten the meal with a refreshing mixed green salad dressed with vinaigrette.

How to Perfect Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Making cheesy chicken pasta just right can elevate your dish. Here are some tips to ensure it’s perfect every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs will enhance flavor compared to dried alternatives.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your pasta is slightly firm; it will absorb the sauce without becoming mushy.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go; feel free to tweak spices based on your preference for heat and flavor.
• Add Cheese Gradually: Incorporate cheese slowly into the sauce for even melting and creaminess.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Use starchy pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if it becomes too thick.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the pasta to sit for a few minutes before serving helps flavors meld together beautifully.

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Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Complementing cheesy chicken pasta with delicious sides can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these are perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
2. Steamed Broccoli: A nutritious side that adds color and crunch without overpowering the main dish.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil make a tasty, healthy pairing.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add a refreshing touch.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw contrasts nicely with the rich flavors of cheesy chicken pasta.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings brightness and sweetness to your plate, making it an enjoyable side.
7. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges offer a satisfying crunch and pair wonderfully with creamy dishes.
8. Zucchini Noodles: For a lighter option, serve zucchini noodles seasoned lightly as a fresh alternative.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help you achieve the best results with your Cheesy Chicken Pasta.

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta too long can lead to mushy noodles. Aim for al dente, which means slightly firm, to ensure it holds up in the sauce.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Neglecting to season your chicken and sauce can result in bland flavors. Use a variety of spices and adjust them to your taste for a delicious outcome.
• Not Using Enough Cheese: Cheesy Chicken Pasta deserves a good amount of cheese for that gooey texture. Don’t skimp; add extra mozzarella both in the sauce and on top before serving.
• Rushing the Sauce: Cooking the sauce too quickly may prevent it from thickening properly. Allow it to bubble gently while stirring continuously for a creamy consistency.
• Ignoring Leftovers: Not storing leftovers properly can lead to spoilage. Make sure to refrigerate or freeze your Cheesy Chicken Pasta promptly after serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store your Cheesy Chicken Pasta in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Containers: Use airtight containers to prevent moisture loss and preserve flavor.

Freezing Cheesy Chicken Pasta

• Duration: Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
• Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remember to remove as much air as possible.

Reheating Cheesy Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through. Cover with foil to retain moisture.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of milk or water in a pan over medium heat, stir frequently until heated thoroughly. This helps revive creaminess.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cheesy Chicken Pasta?

Cheesy Chicken Pasta is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese tossed with pasta.

Can I customize my Cheesy Chicken Pasta?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or substitute different cheeses based on your preference.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To enhance the spice level, increase the amount of red chili powder or sriracha used in the recipe. Adjust according to your heat tolerance.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, Cheesy Chicken Pasta is great for meal prep! It stores well in the fridge or freezer and reheats nicely.

Can I use whole wheat pasta?

Certainly! Whole wheat pasta can be used as a healthier alternative while still enjoying delicious Cheesy Chicken Pasta.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Chicken Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or adjust flavors based on personal tastes. Give it a try tonight!