Easy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta Recipe for Busy Weeknights
This white cheddar chicken pasta recipe is pure creamy, cheesy comfort food with a satisfying protein boost from juicy grilled chicken. It’s one of those easy healthy meals that taste good and is always a hit with my family even the picky eaters!
Whether you’re looking for beginner dinner recipes for family or just a simple, hearty dish for a weeknight, this one’s a winner. I’ve made it countless times for family dinners, and it always disappears fast.
Why You’ll Love This Pasta Dish
- Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with protein
- Kid-approved and perfect for picky eaters
- Can be made in under 30 minutes
- Great for large families easily scales up for 6 or more
- One of our favorite pasta and grilled chicken recipes that’s filling and flavorful
Simple Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this cheesy chicken pasta delight:
- Pasta: Choose rotini or penne to hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Grilled Chicken Breast: Lean and juicy, white meat is ideal here it’s why this is one of our go-to white meat recipes healthy.
- White Cheddar Cheese: The star of the sauce. Sharp white cheddar brings a bold, rich flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty depth and helps thicken the sauce.
- Milk: Helps create a smooth base for the cheese sauce.
- Butter & Flour: These work together to make a creamy roux.
- Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: Simple seasoning that boosts the flavor without overpowering it.
- Salt & Pepper: To taste and balance the flavors.
- Parsley (Optional): For garnish and a fresh finish.
Servings & Time
- Servings: 6–8
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
What is Needed
- 1 lb pasta (penne or rotini)
- 2 large grilled chicken breasts, sliced
- 2 cups sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese (Affiliate), grated
- 2 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Boil pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in the milk until smooth. Let it simmer until thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in white cheddar, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and fully melted.
- Add cooked pasta and sliced grilled chicken to the sauce. Toss gently until fully coated and heated through.
- Plate and top with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Top Tips
- Slice chicken thinly for faster heating and even coating in sauce.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother melt pre-shredded often contains anti-caking agents.
- Add a splash more milk if the sauce gets too thick.
- Great way to use leftover grilled chicken.
- To make it a complete yummy homemade dinner, serve with a quick side salad and garlic bread.
Recipe Variations
- Swap white cheddar with gouda or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.
- Add steamed broccoli or spinach for a veggie boost.
- Use rotisserie chicken instead of grilled for extra convenience.
- Turn it spicy with a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Recommended Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Make Ahead Tips
- Grilled chicken can be cooked and sliced up to 2 days ahead.
- Sauce can be made and stored in the fridge for 1–2 days; just reheat gently and stir well.
How to Store and Reheat
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
- Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between.
What To Serve With This Recipe
- Garlic bread or cheese toast
- Simple green salad with vinaigrette
- Roasted broccoli or green beans
- Fresh fruit for a light finish
What You Need to Know About This Recipe
This white cheddar chicken pasta is a creamy, crowd-pleasing dish that has quickly become a go-to in my home for busy weeknights. Many Parmesan chicken pasta recipes rely heavily on cream, this one keeps it lighter with milk and lean grilled chicken. It’s the perfect blend of comfort and nutrition and can easily feed a big family ideal for anyone looking for easy dinner recipes for family of 8.
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White Cheddar Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
- 1 lb pasta penne or rotini
- 2 large grilled chicken breasts sliced
- 2 cups sharp white cheddar cheese shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 2 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
- Boil pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in the milk until smooth. Let it simmer until thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in white cheddar, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and fully melted.
- Add cooked pasta and sliced grilled chicken to the sauce. Toss gently until fully coated and heated through.
- Plate and top with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- Use rotini or penne for best sauce cling.
- Make it vegetarian by skipping the chicken and adding sautéed mushrooms or broccoli.
One-Pot Cooking Rocks!
Michelle
Hi, I’m Michelle, the founder, owner, author, and editor of OvenSpot. My passion for one-pot cooking commenced when I was working to prepare cafeteria lunches for school students. I am now on a mission to assist you in choosing the cooking pot or appliance you will use daily. As well as in-depth information to assist you in using and caring for your cookware and appliances. Along with the yummy recipes I use at home.
Questions? Reach out to Michelle at [email protected]