What is the best cheese to use for creamy chicken pasta?

The best cheese for creamy cheese chicken pasta depends on the texture and flavor you're aiming for. For a smooth, melty sauce, mozzarella and cream cheese are top picks. For bolder flavor, add Parmesan or a sharp cheddar. A mix of mozzarella for stretch, cream cheese for richness, and Parmesan for depth creates the perfect blend.

How do you make creamy cheese chicken pasta from scratch?

To make creamy cheese chicken pasta from scratch, start by cooking pasta al dente. Sauté seasoned chicken pieces in a pan, then prepare a cheese sauce using butter, garlic, flour, milk (or cream), and cheeses like mozzarella and Parmesan. Combine the pasta, sauce, and chicken in the same skillet until evenly coated. Finish with extra cheese or herbs if desired.

Can I use cream cheese instead of heavy cream in chicken pasta?

Yes, cream cheese is a fantastic substitute for heavy cream in creamy cheese chicken pasta. It adds a rich texture and tangy flavor. For best results, thin it with a splash of milk before stirring it into your sauce. This gives you a creamy consistency without needing heavy cream.

What vegetables pair well with creamy chicken cheese pasta?

Vegetables like spinach, broccoli, mushrooms, and peas pair beautifully with creamy cheese chicken pasta. They add texture, color, and balance to the richness of the cheese sauce. Sauté or steam them before adding to the pasta, or stir fresh greens like spinach directly into the hot sauce to wilt naturally.

Creamy Cheese Chicken Pasta – The Best Easy & Cheesy Recipe You’ll Love

Description

A rich and hearty creamy cheese chicken pasta perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekends. Packed with tender chicken, melty cheeses, and a velvety sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lb chicken breast, diced
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons flour
1½ cups milk or heavy cream
½ cup cream cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella
½ cup grated Parmesan
Optional veggies: spinach, mushrooms, broccoli, peas

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Stir in flour to form a roux. Slowly whisk in milk or cream until smooth.
Add cream cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
Mix in mozzarella and Parmesan until fully melted and creamy.
Return chicken to the pan and stir to combine.
Add cooked pasta and toss to coat. Use reserved pasta water to loosen sauce if needed.
Fold in vegetables if using. Serve hot with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs.

Notes

Customize with your favorite cheese combo or vegetable add-ins. Cream cheese can be swapped with Greek yogurt for a lighter twist.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 500
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 550mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: creamy chicken pasta, cheese pasta, comfort food, weeknight dinner