Introduction to the Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes rival the creamy, cheesy goodness of Cheesy Chicken Pasta. This recipe is a delicious blend of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, flavorful cheese sauce that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. The dish marries simple ingredients with a variety of spices, creating a meal that’s bursting with flavor and creamy indulgence.

The star components include bite-sized pieces of juicy chicken, cooked with aromatic garlic and a blend of spices such as paprika, chili powder, and oregano, all simmered in a luscious sauce made from tomato paste, milk, double cream, and melted mozzarella cheese. The addition of chili sauce or sriracha provides just the right hint of heat, balancing the richness and making this dish truly unforgettable.

Whether you’re a busy weeknight cook looking for a quick one-pot meal or someone wanting to impress guests with a hearty yet elegant pasta dish, this Cheesy Chicken Pasta recipe is your go-to solution. The secret lies in balancing creaminess with spice, and the perfect gooey cheese pull that melts into every bite.

For more tips on cooking pasta perfectly, check out this Ultimate Guide to Cooking Pasta, and if you want to learn about the best types of cheeses for melting, this Cheese Melting Guide is an excellent resource.

In the sections below, you’ll find everything from ingredients and step-by-step instructions to advanced cooking techniques, storage tips, dietary alternatives, and frequently asked questions. Let’s dive in and create a cheesy masterpiece!

Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions

Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe

Author: Sarah White

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Description

Enjoy creamy, cheesy chicken pasta with bold spices and rich mozzarella. Easy, quick, and perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

250g pasta, uncooked (about 8 oz)

2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or olive oil)
4 cloves garlic, minced
275g chicken breast or thigh, cut into bite-sized pieces (about 9.6 oz)

1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon red chili powder

1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/4 teaspoon oregano
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon chili sauce or sriracha (adjust to your heat preference)

130 ml milk (about 1/2 cup + 1 tablespoon)
110 ml double cream (about 1/4 cup + 3 tablespoons)
100 g mozzarella cheese + extra for sprinkling (about 1 cup shredded)

100–120 ml reserved pasta water (about 1/2 cup)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 100-120 ml (1/2 cup) of pasta water. Set aside.
Prepare the Chicken:
Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Cook the Chicken Pieces:
Add the chicken pieces to the pan. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, red chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and oregano evenly over the chicken. Stir well to coat all pieces with the spices. Cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
Add Tomato Paste and Chili Sauce:
Stir in the tomato paste and chili sauce or sriracha. Cook for 2 minutes to incorporate the flavors.
Make the Creamy Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium-low. Pour in the milk and double cream, stirring constantly. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, thickening slightly.

Add Cheese:
Gradually add the shredded mozzarella cheese, stirring continuously until melted and the sauce is smooth.
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the sauce. Pour in about 100 ml of reserved pasta water a little at a time, stirring to loosen the sauce and coat the pasta evenly. Adjust the sauce consistency with more pasta water if necessary.
Final Taste and Garnish:
Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or chili sauce to your preference. Sprinkle extra mozzarella on top if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

Reserve pasta water to help create a silky, smooth sauce that clings to the pasta perfectly.

Use double cream for richness, but substitute with heavy cream or half-and-half if needed.

Mozzarella is great for meltiness, but mixing in a bit of Parmesan adds extra flavor complexity.

Adjust chili sauce carefully—start mild and add more for heat.

Use fresh garlic for the best aroma and flavor.

Keywords: Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe

Advanced Techniques

Perfecting the Pasta Texture

Cooking pasta al dente ensures it holds up well in the creamy sauce without becoming mushy. Test pasta a minute or two before package instructions suggest to avoid overcooking. Use plenty of salted water for even cooking.

Searing Chicken for Maximum Flavor

High heat and minimal stirring allow chicken pieces to develop a beautiful golden crust, adding texture and caramelized flavor. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming.

Balancing Creaminess and Spice

Simmer the sauce gently to prevent curdling the dairy. Adjust chili powder and chili sauce incrementally to balance heat with creaminess without overpowering the dish.

Using Pasta Water to Emulsify Sauce

Pasta water contains starch released during cooking, which helps emulsify the sauce and pasta together, resulting in a luscious coating. Add reserved water gradually to control thickness.

Layering Cheese for Texture

Mix mozzarella with a harder cheese like Parmesan or Asiago for complexity and meltability. Sprinkling extra mozzarella on top before serving adds a melty, gooey finish.

See more advanced recipes at cookingwhite.com

Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

Refrigerating Leftovers

Store cheesy chicken pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk or water to restore creaminess.

Freezing for Longer Storage

This dish can be frozen but cheese and cream sauces sometimes separate upon thawing. Freeze in portions and thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat slowly with stirring, adding extra liquid as needed.

Avoiding Sauce Separation

To prevent cream sauces from separating, reheat over low heat, stirring constantly, and avoid boiling. Adding a bit of pasta water can help re-emulsify the sauce.

Maintaining Freshness of Garlic and Spices

Use fresh garlic and freshly ground spices for maximum flavor. Store spices in a cool, dark place away from moisture.

Best Containers for Storage

Use airtight glass or BPA-free plastic containers for storing leftovers to preserve flavor and prevent odors.

Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

Gluten-Free Version

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all sauces and spices are gluten-free certified. Substitute any chili sauce that may contain gluten with a gluten-free option.

Low-Fat Adaptation

Replace double cream with half-and-half or whole milk, and reduce cheese slightly. Use skinless chicken breast for lean protein.

Dairy-Free and Vegan Variation

Use plant-based cream alternatives (coconut cream or cashew cream), vegan cheese substitutes, and plant-based chicken alternatives or tofu. Swap butter or oil with olive oil.

Low-Spice Option

Reduce or omit chili powder and chili sauce for a mild flavor profile. Substitute with smoked paprika for warmth without heat.

High-Protein Version

Add extra chicken or mix in cooked beans or lentils for an added protein boost without changing flavor much.

FAQs About the Recipe

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! Penne, fusilli, or rigatoni all work well as they hold the sauce nicely. Adjust cooking time per package directions.

What’s the best cheese for this recipe?

Mozzarella melts beautifully, but adding Parmesan or cheddar can enhance flavor depth. Avoid pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking agents.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Increase chili powder and chili sauce, or add fresh chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes during cooking.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, cook everything separately and combine just before serving for best texture. Sauce can be reheated gently.

What if I don’t have double cream?

Use heavy cream, half-and-half, or a milk-thickened roux instead. The sauce may be less rich but still delicious.

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Cheesy Chicken Pasta is the perfect fusion of creamy comfort and bold flavor, making it a versatile dish ideal for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or whenever you crave something indulgent yet satisfying. The combination of tender chicken, gooey mozzarella, and the harmonious blend of spices creates a dish that is both simple to prepare and incredibly delicious.

What makes this recipe truly stand out is the balance it strikes between creaminess and a subtle kick of heat, enhanced by the tomato paste and chili sauce. The step-by-step instructions make it accessible even to novice cooks, while the advanced techniques offer opportunities for home chefs to elevate the dish further.

Storage and dietary adaptations provide flexibility, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy it according to their preferences or restrictions. From freezer-friendly options to vegan modifications, this recipe can adapt without losing its comforting appeal.

Ultimately, Cheesy Chicken Pasta embodies the essence of home-cooked comfort food—easy to make, deeply satisfying, and packed with flavors that bring people together. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends, this dish promises smiles and seconds. Give it a try and savor every cheesy, spicy bite!