Cheesy Chicken Pasta

There’s nothing like the soothing embrace of a creamy, cheesy bowl of pasta after a long day. This cheesy chicken pasta is my go-to recipe when I need a warm, satisfying meal that doesn’t take hours to cook but still delivers on flavor and comfort. It’s the kind of dish that makes you sigh with happiness after the first bite—creamy, cheesy, and just the right amount of spice.

I first made this recipe on a cozy Friday evening, looking for something quick yet indulgent. Since then, it’s become a staple in my kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for your family or treating yourself to a solo pasta night, this dish is guaranteed to please.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Chicken Pasta

• Quick to make – Ready in just 35 minutes
• Packed with flavor – A creamy tomato base with garlic, paprika, and spice
• Comforting – Cheesy, warm, and deeply satisfying
• One-pot style – Easy cleanup for busy weeknights

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need for this delicious cheesy chicken pasta:

• 250g pasta, uncooked (around 8 oz)
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 275g chicken breast or thigh, cut into bite-sized pieces (around 9.6 oz)
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon oregano
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon chili sauce or sriracha
• 130ml milk (½ cup + 1 tablespoon)
• 110ml double cream (¼ cup + 3 tablespoons)
• 100g mozzarella cheese + extra for topping (1 cup + extra)
• 100–120ml pasta water (around ½ cup)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• Add pasta to a pot of cold water with salt and a splash of oil.
• Cook until al dente—firm to the bite but not soft, as it will finish cooking in the sauce.
• Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic

• In a large pan, heat oil over medium heat.
• Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant and lightly golden.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

• Add the chicken pieces to the pan and cook over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes until they turn white and are mostly cooked through.

Step 4: Add Seasonings

• Stir in the salt, black pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and oregano.
• Mix well to coat the chicken with all those aromatic spices.

Step 5: Build the Sauce

• Add tomato paste and sriracha; stir well and cook for 1 minute over medium-high heat.

Step 6: Create the Creamy Base

• Gradually pour in the milk and cream while stirring.
• Let the sauce cook and bubble for about 1 minute.

Step 7: Melt the Cheese

• Add mozzarella cheese and stir until completely melted and incorporated into the sauce.

Step 8: Add Pasta Water

• Slowly add in the reserved pasta water while stirring.
• Bring the sauce to a boil—this takes about 1.5 minutes.

Step 9: Finish the Dish

• Add the cooked pasta to the pan.
• Toss until every piece is well-coated in the creamy, cheesy sauce.
• Sprinkle extra cheese over the top, cover with a lid, and cook on low heat until the cheese melts.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy!

Dish it out hot and serve with a side of garlic bread or a crisp salad.

Tips & Variations

• Spice level: Adjust chili powder and sriracha to your taste.
• Cheese options: Swap in cheddar or a mix of cheeses for extra flavor.
• Protein swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a twist.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm over low heat with a splash of milk to revive the creamy texture.

More Comforting Pasta Recipes to Try:

• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
• Spicy Cajun Chicken Alfredo
• Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Mozzarella
• One-Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something creamy, spicy, and loaded with cheesy goodness, this cheesy chicken pasta is your answer. It’s quick, comforting, and every bit as indulgent as you’d hope. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends alike.

📖 Recipe