A creamy, cheesy chicken pasta dish made with tender chicken, rich sauce, and plenty of flavor. It’s quick to make, easy to adapt, and perfect for any night of the week.
12 oz pasta (penne, shells, or elbows)
1 lb chicken breast or thighs, diced
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
3 tbsp butter (for sauce)
½ cup diced onion
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1½ cups milk or cream
½ cup chicken broth
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella
¼ cup grated Parmesan
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt, pepper, paprika to taste
Cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Season chicken and cook in oil or butter until browned. Set aside.
In the same pan, melt butter, add onion and garlic, and cook until soft.
Stir in flour and cook 1–2 minutes. Slowly add milk and broth, whisking until thickened.
Add cheeses and stir until melted and smooth.
Return pasta and chicken to the pan. Stir to combine.
Optional: Transfer to baking dish, top with cheese, and broil until golden.