Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta is a delicious and comforting meal perfect for any day of the week. The creamy sauce made with white cheddar and heavy cream brings a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with tender chicken and pasta. This recipe is quick to make, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. It’s also a great way to enjoy leftover chicken!
How to Make Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (any variety)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Add the shredded chicken and mix well.
- Slowly add the white cheddar, stirring until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the pasta with the sauce and stir until well coated.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
How to Serve Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta
Serve this pasta warm and enjoy it fresh. You can sprinkle some extra white cheddar or Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. A side salad or garlic bread pairs well with this dish, making it a complete meal.
How to Store Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish can be kept for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
Tips to Make Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta
- Use any pasta shape you like, such as penne, fettuccine, or rotini.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or broccoli to make the dish more nutritious.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick!
Variation
You can substitute white cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella or Gouda if you prefer a different flavor. For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
FAQs
Can I use uncooked chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can cook the chicken in the skillet before adding the garlic and cream. Just cut it into small pieces and sauté until cooked through.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative if you are looking for a lighter option.
Can I freeze Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta?
It’s best not to freeze the creamy sauce, as it may separate when thawed. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken and pasta separately.
Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (any variety)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Add the shredded chicken and mix well.
- Slowly add the white cheddar, stirring until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the pasta with the sauce and stir until well coated.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
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