Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite pasta dish: white cheddar chicken pasta! It’s like a warm hug on a plate, with creamy, dreamy sauce that’ll make you swoon. The first time I whipped this up, I was just experimenting with what I had on hand, and boy, did I hit the jackpot! The combination of tender chicken and that velvety white cheddar is simply irresistible. Every bite is bursting with cheesy flavor, and the best part? It comes together in no time! Seriously, if you’re short on time but craving something comforting and delicious, this dish is your new best friend. Trust me, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen, too!
Ingredients for White Cheddar Chicken Pasta
Gathering the right ingredients for this creamy delight is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 8 oz penne pasta – this shape holds the sauce beautifully!
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced – tender pieces that cook up perfectly in the sauce.
- 2 cups white cheddar cheese, shredded – the star of the show, giving that rich, cheesy flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream – for that luscious creamy texture that’ll make you swoon.
- 1 cup chicken broth – adds depth and flavor to the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – a must for that aromatic kick.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – for sautéing the chicken to golden perfection.
- Salt and pepper to taste – season it just right!
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – because a pop of green makes everything better!
These ingredients come together to create a dish that’s not just comforting but also absolutely delicious. Trust me, you’ll want to have these on hand for when the craving hits!
How to Prepare White Cheddar Chicken Pasta
Alright, let’s dive into the deliciousness of making this white cheddar chicken pasta! It’s super straightforward, and I promise you’ll be rewarded with a creamy, cheesy masterpiece in no time. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be feasting in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to salt the water well—this is your chance to infuse some flavor! Once it’s al dente, drain it and set it aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. You want that sizzle! Once hot, add the diced chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown and cooked through. You’ll love the smell!
- Next, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for just 1 minute. Be careful not to let it burn; we want it fragrant, not bitter!
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring it to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic begins!
- Now, add in the shredded white cheddar cheese. Stir constantly until it’s completely melted and smooth—oh, the creaminess!
- Finally, combine the cooked penne with the cheesy sauce, mixing well to coat every piece. Season with salt and pepper to taste. It’s time to dig in!
And there you have it! A comforting dish that’s ready to impress. Just remember to garnish with fresh parsley for that extra touch!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This white cheddar chicken pasta is a total game-changer in the kitchen! Here’s why it’s bound to become one of your favorites:
- Quick preparation: You can whip this up in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights!
- Creamy taste: That luscious white cheddar sauce is rich and satisfying, making every bite a delight.
- Versatile: Feel free to toss in cooked vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition and flavor!
- One-pot wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your delicious meal.
- Kid-friendly: Even picky eaters can’t resist the cheesy goodness!
Trust me, once you try this dish, you’ll be dreaming about it long after dinner’s over!
Tips for Success with White Cheddar Chicken Pasta
Now, let me share some insider tips to make your white cheddar chicken pasta even more amazing! First off, don’t skimp on salting your pasta water. It’s your only chance to really flavor the pasta itself!
If you want a bit more depth, try adding a splash of white wine to the sauce after sautéing the garlic. Just let it reduce a little before adding the broth and cream. Oh, and if you like a little heat, toss in some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
For a creamier texture, feel free to add a bit more heavy cream or even some cream cheese—trust me, it’ll elevate the richness. And remember, always taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning to your preference, and don’t be afraid to get creative with those veggies. Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!
Nutritional Information for White Cheddar Chicken Pasta
Now, let’s talk nutrition! This white cheddar chicken pasta is not just satisfying; it packs a punch too. Here’s an estimated breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 600
- Fat: 30g
- Protein: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, but it gives you a good idea of what to expect. It’s a hearty meal that’ll fuel your day while still being a treat!
FAQ About White Cheddar Chicken Pasta
Got questions about making this creamy delight? No problem! Here are some common queries I get about white cheddar chicken pasta:
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While white cheddar is the star, you can mix it up with other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique twist.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it up!
Can I reheat it?
Yes! Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to bring back that creamy texture.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Of course! Simply swap the chicken for hearty vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini, and use vegetable broth instead.
Don’t hesitate to get creative and make this dish your own!
Variations of White Cheddar Chicken Pasta
One of the best things about this white cheddar chicken pasta is how easily it adapts to your cravings! If you’re feeling adventurous, here are some fun variations to try:
- Protein swaps: Switch the chicken for shrimp or diced turkey for a different flavor profile. You could even go for crispy bacon bits for a smoky touch!
- Veggie-loaded: Toss in some sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. They’ll add color and nutrition, plus a delightful crunch!
- Herb-infused: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme. Just add them in at the end for a burst of freshness!
- Spicy kick: For heat lovers, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
- Cheese variety: Mix in a blend of cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a fun twist on the classic cheesy goodness!
Get creative, and make this dish your own! You can’t go wrong with a little experimentation in the kitchen.
Print
White Cheddar Chicken Pasta: 2 Reasons to Swoon Over It
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A creamy and cheesy pasta dish featuring white cheddar and chicken.
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 2 cups white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, and bring to a simmer.
- Add the white cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce and mix well.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add cooked vegetables like spinach or broccoli.
- Adjust cheese quantity based on your preference.
- This dish can be made ahead and reheated.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: white cheddar chicken pasta
