Cheesy Chicken Pasta Dreamy and Flavorful Dish

November 20, 2025July 6, 2025 by Chef Elliot

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 2 cups penne pasta

– 1 lb chicken breast, diced

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

To start, you need good, sturdy penne pasta. It holds the sauce nicely. Next, grab a pound of chicken breast. Dice it into bite-sized pieces for easy cooking and eating. Lastly, add olive oil for sautéing. This will give your chicken a lovely flavor.

Dairy and Seasonings

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For that rich, creamy sauce, you need heavy cream. It makes the dish extra dreamy. Then, get mozzarella cheese to create a gooey texture. Sprinkle in some Parmesan cheese for a sharp kick. Finally, don’t forget Italian seasoning. This mix of herbs adds warmth and depth to every bite.

Vegetables

– 1 small onion, chopped

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

– Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Now, let’s brighten up the dish with veggies. Start with a small onion and chop it finely. Garlic is next; three cloves will give great flavor. We need cherry tomatoes too. Halve them for sweetness and color. And for a fresh touch, use basil leaves as a garnish. They will add a pop of flavor and a lovely look.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

First, fill a large pot with water and add salt. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. You want it bubbling well before adding the pasta. Once boiling, add 2 cups of penne pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until the pasta is al dente, which usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. After that, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.

Preparing the Chicken

Next, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add 1 pound of diced chicken breast. Season it with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Sauté the chicken for about 6 to 7 minutes until it is browned and cooked through. After it’s done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Making the Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet, add a small onion, chopped, and 3 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté these for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onion turns translucent. This step builds a great base for your sauce. Lower the heat, then pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir to combine. Gradually add 1 ½ cups of shredded mozzarella cheese and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.

Combining and Finalizing

Now, it’s time to bring it all together. Add the cooked pasta, sautéed chicken, and 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes to the cheese sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are well coated. Let this mixture cook on low heat for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. This warms everything through. You can add more cream if the sauce needs thinning. Finally, adjust the salt and pepper to taste. Serve your dish warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves for a lovely touch.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Cheese Sauce

To make the cheese sauce pop, you can try different cheese types. I love using a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan. Mozzarella gives it that gooey stretch, while Parmesan adds a nice sharp taste. You can also experiment with cheddar or gouda for a unique twist.

For the right creaminess, keep the heat low when adding cream. Stir it gently to blend everything smoothly. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of pasta water or more cream. This keeps it light and dreamy.

Chicken Cooking Techniques

To ensure your chicken is juicy, choose boneless chicken breast. Cut it into small pieces for even cooking. Sear the chicken in olive oil until golden. This locks in moisture and flavor.

You can also grill or bake the chicken. Grilling adds a nice char, while baking keeps it tender. Just make sure to monitor the cooking time. Overcooking will dry it out.

Pasta Cooking Tips

Timing is key when cooking pasta and sauce. Cook the penne until al dente, then drain it quickly. This way, the pasta stays firm and absorbs the sauce flavor.

To prevent overcooking, check the pasta a minute before the package time ends. If you’re making the sauce at the same time, keep the pasta warm. Toss it with a bit of oil to keep it from sticking.

Variations

Ingredient Substitutions

You can change the protein in this dish if you want. Here are some easy swaps:

– Alternative proteins: Use turkey, shrimp, or tofu instead of chicken. Each option brings a new taste.

– Dairy-free options: Swap heavy cream for coconut milk or a dairy-free cream. Use dairy-free cheese for a creamy texture.

Vegetarian Version

If you want a meat-free meal, it’s simple!

– Removing chicken and adding more vegetables: Skip the chicken and add veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. This adds color and nutrients to your dish.

Flavor Additions

Make this dish even more exciting with extra flavors.

– Spicy variations: Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños to bring some heat. This gives a nice kick to the creamy sauce.

– Adding herbs and spices: Try fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. You can also mix in garlic powder or smoked paprika for a unique twist.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your cheesy chicken pasta fresh, you need to store it properly. First, let the dish cool down to room temperature. Then, place it in an airtight container. Make sure to use it within three to four days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option.

For freezing, divide the pasta into single servings. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months.

Reheating Tips

When it comes to reheating, a few methods work best. The microwave is quick and easy. Just place your portion in a bowl, cover it, and heat it for one to two minutes. Stir halfway through for even heating.

If you want a better texture, use a skillet. Heat it on low, adding a splash of cream or water to keep it moist. Stir often to avoid sticking. This method helps keep your cheesy chicken pasta creamy and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, you can use different pasta shapes. Here are some recommended alternatives:

– Fusilli

– Farfalle

– Rigatoni

– Spaghetti

Each shape holds the cheese sauce well. Choose what you have on hand or what you like best.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this recipe works great for meal prep. Here are some tips:

– Cook the pasta and chicken in advance.

– Store them in separate containers.

– Keep the cheese sauce in another container.

This helps keep everything fresh. You can mix them before eating.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead. Here are some suggestions:

– Prepare the whole dish and let it cool.

– Store it in a sealed container in the fridge.

– Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

This way, you enjoy a warm meal without much fuss!

This blog post covered all you need to make a tasty chicken pasta dish. We discussed the key ingredients, from penne pasta to fresh basil, and how to cook them perfectly. You learned how to make a creamy cheese sauce and combine everything for the best taste. Don’t forget the variations and tips for storing leftovers. With these ideas, you can enjoy this dish in many ways. I hope you find joy in cooking and sharing this meal with other