There’s a certain magic that happens when fork-tender chicken meets ribbons of perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a luscious, velvety sauce—and that’s precisely what you get with Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta. This crowd-pleasing classic is comfort food at its finest, marrying juicy, golden-seared chicken with a trio of melting cheeses, silky cream, aromatic herbs, and a swirl of tomato richness. Whether you’re looking to impress on a busy weeknight or treat your loved ones to something truly special, this dish always delivers indulgence and warmth with every spoonful.

Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love most about this recipe is just how simple—but strategic—the ingredient list is. Every element has a starring role, bringing out color, flavor, and irresistible texture in each bite. Gather these pantry and fridge staples before you begin:

10 oz Pasta (Penne or similar): Penne is perfect for holding all that creamy sauce, but any short pasta will do the trick.
1 lb Chicken breast (2 breasts, cut in half): Slicing the breasts creates more surface area for flavor and faster cooking.
2 tbsp Olive oil: Olive oil helps sear the chicken and adds depth to the sauce.
2 tbsp Butter: Butter brings out a rich, luxurious base for your creamy sauce.
½ tsp Kosher salt: Proper seasoning at every step is key for flavor that pops.
½ tsp Black pepper: A little fresh cracked pepper balances all the creamy, cheesy notes.
1 tsp Oregano (dried): Oregano infuses both the chicken and sauce with savory, herbaceous warmth.
1 tsp Paprika (sweet): Paprika lends a sweet, earthy background that enhances color and taste.
¼ tsp Garlic powder: For subtle garlicky flavor without overwhelming the dish.
½ cup Flour: Creates the perfect golden crust on the chicken when seared.
1 clove Garlic (sliced): Sautéed garlic flavors the sauce with inviting aroma and taste.
½ cup Red onions (chopped): Red onions add sweetness and gorgeous color to the mix.
1 tsp Oregano (dried): Reinforces that herby baseline in the sauce itself.
1 tsp Mustard paste: Just a touch awakens the flavors and adds zing.
2 tbsp Tomato paste: Tomato paste deepens the sauce and brings tangy complexity.
1 tsp Boullion cube (crushed) or 1/4 cup chicken broth: This sneaky shortcut bump ups savoriness in seconds.
½ cup Water: Water creates just enough broth to bring it all together.
½ cup Heavy cream (15-25%): The backbone of our creamy sauce for that luxurious mouthfeel.
2 tbsp Parsley (chopped): A sprinkle of green brings freshness and brightness to each serving.
½ cup Parmesan cheese: For salty, nutty layers that melt into the sauce.
1 cup Cheddar cheese (or Emantle): Cheddar gives our Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta its unmistakably melty, sharp comfort.
1 cup Mozzarella cheese: For stretch and ooey-gooey factor that can’t be beat.

How to Make Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Start by bringing a generous pot of salted water to a boil. Add your penne (or favorite short pasta) and cook until it’s just shy of al dente—think a minute or two before the box says it’s done. This ensures your Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta doesn’t end up mushy once it bubbles with the sauce later. Drain and set aside, knowing you’re halfway to pasta perfection.

Step 2: Mix Chicken Seasonings

In a small bowl, whisk together dried oregano, sweet paprika, and a sprinkle of garlic powder. This blend creates an aromatic spice rub that infuses the chicken with warmth and subtle depth, giving every bite a flavor boost even before the chicken hits the pan.

Step 3: Season and Coat Chicken

Lay the halved chicken breasts out and season them all over with salt, pepper, and that irresistible spice mixture you just made. Next, dredge each piece in a mixture of flour, salt, and pepper on a plate—this step creates a beautiful golden crust and helps lock in juiciness when you sear them.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

Heat up a large skillet over medium heat, swirling in 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once sizzling, cook the chicken pieces for around 3 minutes per side, until a crisp, golden crust forms and the inside is no longer pink. Don’t overcook! Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside. This step ensures tender, flavorful chicken that won’t dry out—pure magic for Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta.

Step 5: Build the Creamy Sauce

In the same pan, add the remaining olive oil and butter. Toss in the sliced garlic and red onions, cooking until fragrant and translucent—let those flavors marry! Stir in the extra oregano, mustard paste, and concentrated tomato paste, followed by the boullion cube (or chicken broth) and water. Keep the heat moderately low, so you don’t lose those lovely liquids too fast. This aromatic base will set the stage for the starring creamy element.

Step 6: Stir in Cream and Cheese

Lower the heat and gently pour in the heavy cream. Add half the parmesan, cheddar, and mozzarella. Watch as everything melts into a silky pool—don’t rush this step, you want every bit of cheese and cream infused through the sauce. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed, but remember the boullion and cheese add salt, too.

Step 7: Bring It All Together

Return your cooked pasta to the pan, tossing well to coat every piece in that decadent sauce. Sprinkle over the chopped parsley, nestle the seared chicken on top, and shower the whole skillet with the remaining cheeses. Cover and cook on low for 3 to 5 minutes, just until everything is deliciously melty and cohesive. Sprinkle with more parsley when it’s time to serve—your Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta is ready to wow!

How to Serve Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

A great garnish not only adds beauty but brings extra pops of flavor! Sprinkle your Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta with fresh chopped parsley for brightness, a flurry of extra parmesan for richness, or even a pinch of cracked black pepper and chili flakes for a little kick. Lemon zest also adds a refreshing lift if you want to shine a citrusy spotlight on the dish.

Side Dishes

Since this pasta is rich and satisfying, I love balancing it with a crisp green salad—think arugula or spinach tossed in a simple vinaigrette. A side of garlicky roasted broccoli or buttery peas is also fabulous. And let’s not forget a warm piece of garlic bread or a classic baguette to help mop up every drop of that sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful! Serve Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta family-style in a big, bubbly skillet for a rustic feel, or plate it individually with a swirl of extra sauce and a sprinkle of parsley for a restaurant-worthy touch. For parties, scoop small portions into ramekins and broil with extra cheese for melty little gratins—always a conversation starter!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Have leftovers? Lucky you! Transfer cooled Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It will keep beautifully for up to three days, making for dreamy lunches or cozy next-day dinners that taste just as good as the first time around.

Freezing

While this pasta is at its best fresh, you can absolutely freeze it. Let it cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers for up to one month. The sauce may separate a little upon thawing, but a gentle reheat and a splash of cream brings it right back to life.

Reheating

To reheat, add your leftovers to a skillet with a splash or two of cream or milk. Warm over low heat, stirring gently to preserve the creamy texture and keep the chicken tender. If microwaving, cover loosely and use medium power for best results—nobody wants dry chicken or overcooked pasta!

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs bring extra juiciness and bold flavor to this dish. Just be aware they’ll need a bit more time in the pan—around 15 to 18 minutes to reach tender perfection.

What other cheeses can I substitute?

Don’t be afraid to mix things up! Swap the cheddar for gouda, fontina, or even Swiss, and try gruyere or pecorino in place of parmesan for a unique flavor twist. The cheese aisle truly is your playground.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Go low and slow when adding your cream, and make sure the skillet isn’t blazing hot. Stir it in gradually, and avoid letting the sauce boil—it should just gently bubble while the cheese melts.

Is this Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta recipe kid-friendly?

Totally—it’s usually a fan favorite with little ones! If you’re worried about spice sensitivity, you can skip the chili flakes or swap paprika for a mild version. The cheesy, creamy taste is always a hit.

Can I make this lighter?

You can, absolutely! Swap half-and-half for heavy cream and use reduced-fat cheese, though the sauce may not be quite as silky. For an even lighter version, try stirring in a bit of low-fat milk and vibrant spinach just before serving.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking an irresistibly cozy dinner that never fails to satisfy, Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta is calling your name. This recipe offers so much indulgent flavor with so little fuss—perfect for sharing with family and friends, or just treating yourself on a chilly night. Give it a try and watch everyone’s faces light up at first bite!