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Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta

This Creamy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta is a rich, comforting dinner made with tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a velvety white cheddar cheese sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, this kid-friendly, cheesy chicken pasta is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family meals.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz penne or rotini pasta
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast diced or shredded (rotisserie works well)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk warm
  • 1½ cups freshly shredded white cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish optional

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
  4. Slowly pour in the warm milk while whisking continuously to create a smooth sauce. Let it simmer until thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
  5. Reduce heat to low. Stir in the white cheddar and Parmesan cheese until fully melted and creamy.
  6. Season the sauce with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
  7. Add the cooked chicken and drained pasta into the skillet. Toss well until everything is coated in the creamy white cheddar sauce.
  8. Serve immediately, or transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle extra cheese on top, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes for a pasta bake version.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest sauce texture.
Warm milk prevents lumps in the sauce.
Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce becomes too thick.
You can add spinach, mushrooms, or bacon for extra flavor.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a little milk.