Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this *white cheddar chicken pasta*! It’s one of those dishes that makes you feel all warm and cozy inside, like a big hug from your favorite blanket. I whip this up on busy weeknights when I want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The creaminess of the white cheddar mixed with the tender chicken and perfectly cooked penne pasta is just heavenly! It’s so simple to prepare, and the best part? You can have it on the table in about 35 minutes! Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe close because it’s sure to become a family favorite. The rich flavors meld together beautifully, making every bite a delightful experience. Let’s dive into how to make this creamy dream come true!
Ingredients for White Cheddar Chicken Pasta 2
- 8 oz penne pasta – This is the star of the dish! You’ll want to cook it al dente for that perfect bite.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded – I usually use rotisserie chicken for convenience, but any cooked chicken works beautifully here.
- 1 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded – The creaminess and sharpness of white cheddar take this pasta to the next level. Go for a good-quality cheese for the best flavor!
- 1 cup heavy cream – This adds that luscious, velvety texture that makes the sauce so irresistible.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth – This helps to enhance the chicken flavor and keeps the dish from being too rich.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – A sprinkle of this adds a lovely nuttiness and depth to the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic is a must for that aromatic touch; it brings everything together!
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Just a little drizzle to sauté the garlic and keep things flavorful.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t forget to season! Adjust it to your preference for a well-rounded dish.
How to Prepare White Cheddar Chicken Pasta 2
- First things first, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain it and set it aside. This helps prevent it from getting mushy later.
- While the pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn—yikes!
- Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let this simmer for about 2-3 minutes; you want it to get all cozy and blended together.
- Now, toss in the shredded chicken. Stir it around until it’s heated through—this should take just a couple of minutes.
- Time for the best part! Gradually add the white cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Keep stirring until everything melts together into a creamy sauce. Mmm!
- Finally, add the cooked pasta to the skillet and mix everything until the pasta is well coated in that dreamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a taste test—wow, right?
- Serve it hot, and watch everyone come back for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This white cheddar chicken pasta comes together in just about 35 minutes, making it a perfect choice for those busy weeknights when you need something delicious in a hurry!
- Rich, Creamy Flavor: The combination of white cheddar and heavy cream creates a sauce that’s not just tasty but also incredibly comforting—every bite feels like a warm hug!
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this dish by using whatever cooked chicken you have on hand, from rotisserie to grilled chicken, and adjust the cheese to suit your taste.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this dish! It’s a crowd-pleaser, so you can serve it at family dinners or even casual gatherings with friends.
- One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in one skillet, which means less cleanup for you—yes, please! Less time scrubbing dishes means more time enjoying your meal.
- Comfort Food Classic: This pasta dish hits all the right notes of classic comfort food, perfect for those days when you just need something hearty and satisfying.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your *white cheddar chicken pasta* turns out absolutely perfect! Here are my tried-and-true tips to help you nail this dish:
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Remember, you want it al dente! It’ll continue cooking a bit when you mix it with the sauce, so pulling it off the heat just before it’s fully done will prevent mushiness.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality cheese make a world of difference in flavor. If you can, avoid the pre-minced garlic—there’s nothing like the real deal!
- Adjust the creaminess: If you find the sauce too thick, simply add a splash more chicken broth or even a bit of pasta water to loosen it up. You want that perfect creamy consistency!
- Experiment with cheese: If you’re feeling adventurous, mix in some mozzarella or gouda along with the white cheddar for a unique twist. Each cheese brings its own flavor profile, and I love experimenting!
- Let it rest: After cooking, let the pasta sit for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and cling to the pasta beautifully.
- Season as you go: Taste the sauce and adjust the salt and pepper as you mix everything together. Each batch of chicken broth can vary in saltiness, so this step is key!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re ready to whip up a delicious dish that everyone will rave about. Enjoy the cooking process and don’t forget to taste along the way—it’s part of the fun!
Variations of White Cheddar Chicken Pasta 2
Feeling adventurous? There are so many fun ways to mix things up with this *white cheddar chicken pasta*! Here are some delicious variations to consider:
- Switch Up the Protein: While shredded chicken is fantastic, you can easily swap it out for cooked shrimp, diced turkey, or even a plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly!
- Add Vegetables: For a nutritional boost, throw in some sautéed veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli. They not only add color but also enhance the dish’s flavor profile. Just toss them in with the garlic for a few minutes before adding the cream.
- Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the sauce. It’ll give your creamy pasta a delightful kick!
- Change the Cheese: Experiment with different cheese blends! Mixing in some smoked gouda or pepper jack can add a whole new dimension of flavor and creaminess to the dish. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
- Herb It Up: Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme can elevate this pasta dish. Just sprinkle them in right before serving for a burst of freshness!
- Make It a Bake: If you want to take it to the next level, transfer the pasta to a baking dish, top it with extra cheese, and bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until bubbly and golden. A cheesy crust is always a crowd-pleaser!
These variations allow you to personalize your *white cheddar chicken pasta* to your liking, ensuring it never gets boring. Have fun experimenting and finding your favorite combination!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you happen to have any leftovers of this creamy *white cheddar chicken pasta*, don’t worry—storing it is super easy! Just place it in an airtight container and pop it in the fridge, where it will keep well for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, I recommend reheating it on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or a bit of cream to help loosen the sauce and keep it nice and creamy. Stir occasionally until heated through, and you’ll be back to pasta paradise in no time!
Nutritional Information
Before we dive into the numbers, it’s important to remember that nutritional information can vary quite a bit based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. So, while I can provide you with some estimated values, they might not be spot on for your version of this *white cheddar chicken pasta*.
Here’s a rough breakdown per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 600
- Fat: About 30g
- Saturated Fat: Roughly 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: Around 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 50g
- Fiber: About 2g
- Sugar: Roughly 2g
- Protein: Approximately 35g
- Sodium: About 800mg
- Cholesterol: Approximately 100mg
Always feel free to tweak the ingredients to suit your dietary needs, and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite of this delicious dish!
FAQ About White Cheddar Chicken Pasta 2
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While I love penne for its perfect sauce-holding capabilities, you can swap it out for any pasta shape you have on hand. Fusilli, rotini, or even spaghetti will work just fine. Just keep an eye on the cooking time!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can! This *white cheddar chicken pasta* can be prepared a day in advance. Just cook it, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or broth to keep it creamy and delicious.
What can I add for extra flavor?
For a flavor boost, consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil right before serving. Also, a dash of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick to the creamy sauce!
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes! If you use gluten-free penne pasta, this *white cheddar chicken pasta* can easily be made gluten-free. Just be sure to check all your ingredients, including the chicken broth, to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
If heavy cream isn’t on hand, you can substitute it with half-and-half or a mix of milk and butter for a lighter version. Just keep in mind that the sauce might be a bit thinner, but it will still be tasty!
White Cheddar Chicken Pasta: 2 Easy Steps to Comfort
- Temps Total: 35 minutes
- Rendement: 4 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Sans Gluten
Description
A creamy and delicious white cheddar chicken pasta dish that is easy to prepare.
Ingrédients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Add the shredded chicken and heat through.
- Stir in white cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Add the cooked pasta and mix well.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider adding sautéed vegetables.
- This dish can be made ahead and reheated.
- Adjust cheese quantity to taste.
- Temps De Préparation: 15 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 20 minutes
- Catégorie: Main Dish
- Méthode: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sucre: 2g
- De Sodium: 800mg
- La graisse: 30g
- Graisses Saturées: 15g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 10g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 50g
- La fibre: 2g
- La protéine: 35g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 100mg
Mots-clés: white cheddar chicken pasta, creamy pasta, chicken pasta
