Creamy white cheddar chicken pasta combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious white cheddar sauce. Perfect for family meals or weeknight dinners, this flavorful recipe is quick, easy, and absolutely delicious.
Author:Sandy
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Total Time:30 minutes
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Main Course
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Diet:Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
1 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden.
Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
Add shredded white cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Stir in the cooked chicken and pasta, ensuring everything is evenly coated in the sauce.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
For added flavor, you can use smoked white cheddar cheese.
Substitute chicken with shrimp or make it vegetarian by omitting meat and adding vegetables like broccoli or spinach.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid curdling the sauce.