White Cheddar Chicken Pasta

Looking for a creamy, cheesy chicken pasta recipe that’s both easy to make and incredibly flavorful? This White Cheddar Chicken Pasta is the perfect dish to satisfy your cravings! With tender chicken breast, a rich and creamy white cheddar cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish will become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Creamy chicken pasta has never been this easy to make! Enjoy the indulgent flavors with a touch of Dijon mustard and a sprinkle of fresh thyme.

Ingredients

For the chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 ½ tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dry mustard
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the pasta:

• 1 pound short-cut pasta (rotini, penne, or farfalle)

For the cheesy and creamy sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• ¼ cup dry white wine
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 8 oz white cheddar cheese, grated
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1-2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken: In a small bowl, combine dry mustard, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Set aside. Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips or cubes. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the chicken.
2. Cook the chicken: Heat 1 ½ tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the seasoned chicken for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
3. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. Make the sauce: In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt 2 tbsp of butter. Once melted, whisk in 2 tbsp of flour, cooking for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is bubbly and golden. Add the minced garlic, diced onion, and ¼ cup dry white wine. Stir to combine and cook for 3-5 minutes, until the onions soften.
5. Finish the sauce: Stir in 1 tbsp Dijon mustard and slowly pour in the milk, adding it in increments and stirring after each addition. Continue to cook on low for 4-6 minutes, or until the sauce thickens. Add the grated white cheddar cheese and stir until fully melted and smooth.
6. Combine and serve: Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat everything evenly. Stir in fresh thyme and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes (optional) for a burst of flavor. Serve immediately.

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Tips

• Chicken cooking tip: To get a more tender and juicy chicken, consider marinating the chicken breasts in olive oil and seasonings for 30 minutes before cooking.
• Pasta choice: While any short-cut pasta will work, rotini holds the creamy sauce well, making it a great choice for this dish.
• Make it spicier: Add extra crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

Variations and Substitutions

• Cheese swap: If you’re not a fan of white cheddar, try swapping it with sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or even gouda for a different flavor profile.
• Dairy-free option: Use almond milk or oat milk in place of whole milk and opt for a dairy-free cheese alternative to make this dish vegan-friendly.
• Add veggies: Toss in some sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for added nutrition and flavor.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the sauce and chicken in advance, store them separately in the fridge, and then combine them with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, just be sure to fully thaw the chicken before cooking it for best results.

What type of pasta should I use? Any short pasta such as rotini, penne, or farfalle will work well. Choose a pasta that can hold the creamy sauce effectively.

Serving Suggestions

• With a side salad: Serve this dish with a simple mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance out the richness.
• Garlic bread or crusty bread: A warm piece of garlic bread or crusty baguette complements the creamy texture of this pasta dish perfectly.
• Pair with white wine: A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with the creamy, cheesy flavors of this dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

White Cheddar Chicken Pasta is a rich, creamy, and indulgent dish that’s perfect for a comforting family dinner or special occasion. The savory chicken paired with the smooth white cheddar cheese and the subtle kick of Dijon mustard creates a flavor profile that’s both satisfying and delicious. It’s easy to make, customizable, and sure to be a hit at the dinner table!