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The Ultimate Cheddar Parmesan Chicken Pasta You’ll Crave
Imagine perfectly al dente pasta enrobed in a rich, velvety cheese sauce, studded with tender, seasoned chicken. That’s our ultimate Cheddar Parmesan Chicken Pasta. More than just a cheesy chicken pasta, it’s a celebration of comfort food, designed to satisfy any appetite. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal, this creamy chicken pasta recipe is about to become your new favorite Cheddar Parmesan Chicken Pasta.
Why This Recipe is a Weeknight Winner
Our Cheddar Parmesan Chicken Pasta isn’t just delicious; it’s designed for ease and enjoyment. Here’s why this easy chicken pasta dinner is a must-try:
Flavor Explosion
A delightful fusion of sharp cheddar, nutty Parmesan, savory garlic butter, and a hint of Cajun spice. It’s a rich, well-balanced taste making this Cheddar Parmesan Chicken Pasta a best cheesy pasta recipe.
Simple, Accessible Ingredients
This creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta uses common pantry staples, making your grocery run quick and effortless.
Quick and Easy to Make
This fantastic dish comes together in under an hour with simple steps, ideal for busy weeknights. A truly chicken pasta recipe easy solution!
A Family Favorite
Cheesy, creamy, and comforting, this chicken pasta with cheese sauce is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for all ages – a perfect family dinner ideas pasta.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To craft this delightful Cheddar Parmesan Chicken Pasta, gather these essential ingredients. Freshness makes a difference!
For the Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken:
- Chicken Breasts: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless, 1-inch pieces. Thighs work too.
- Olive Oil: 1 tbsp.
- Garlic Butter: 2 tbsp (store-bought or quick homemade).
- Seasonings: 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning, ½ tsp paprika, ¼ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper.
For the Creamy Cheddar Parmesan Pasta:
- Penne Pasta: 12 oz. Penne or similar ridged pasta for this chicken and penne pasta recipe.
- Unsalted Butter: 2 tbsp (for roux).
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 tbsp (for roux).
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced.
- Whole Milk: 2 cups, for rich homemade chicken pasta sauce.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup, freshly shredded from a block (crucial for smooth sauce).
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, freshly grated from a block (key for how to make cheddar parmesan sauce).
- Sauce Seasonings: ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp onion powder.
Essential Kitchen Tools
Ensure a smooth cooking process for your Cheddar Parmesan Chicken Pasta with these tools:
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Large skillet
- Colander
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cheese grater (for fresh cheese)
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Perfect Cheddar Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Follow these steps to create your perfect Cheddar Parmesan Chicken Pasta:
1. Prepare and Cook the Chicken
Pat chicken dry. Toss with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil and garlic butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 5-7 minutes until golden and cooked through (165°F/74°C). Remove and set aside. This forms your savory parmesan cheddar chicken.
2. Cook the Penne Pasta
Cook penne in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup starchy pasta water before draining. Set pasta aside. Al dente prevents mushiness.
3. Build the Creamy Cheese Sauce
In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic for 30 seconds, then whisk in 2 tbsp flour for 1 minute (roux). Slowly whisk in 2 cups whole milk; sauce will thicken. Reduce heat to low. Stir in 1 cup freshly shredded cheddar and ½ cup grated Parmesan until smooth. Do not boil cheese sauce to prevent graininess. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This is how to make cheddar parmesan sauce perfectly.
4. Combine and Serve
Add drained penne and cooked chicken to the creamy cheese sauce. Stir gently to coat. If too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until desired consistency. Garnish with parsley or extra Parmesan. Serve your satisfying weeknight chicken pasta immediately!
Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Chicken Pasta
Ensure success with your Cheddar Parmesan Chicken Pasta using these expert tips:
- Shred Your Own Cheese: Absolutely crucial for a smooth, creamy chicken pasta recipe. Pre-shredded cheese causes graininess; fresh from a block ensures velvety chicken pasta with cheese sauce.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook pasta strictly al dente. It finishes cooking in the sauce, preventing a mushy texture.
- Low Heat is Key for the Sauce: When melting cheese, keep heat low. High heat separates cheese, leading to a grainy or oily sauce. Patience creates the best cheesy pasta recipe.
- Use Reserved Pasta Water: The starchy water emulsifies and thins the sauce, binding it beautifully to the pasta, enhancing the overall creamy texture of this garlic butter chicken pasta.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your chicken and sauce, adjusting salt, pepper, and Cajun spice to your preference.
Fun Variations and Add-Ins
Customize your Cheddar Parmesan Chicken Pasta with these ideas to make it a truly unique comfort food pasta dish:
- Add Vegetables: Stir in steamed broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the chicken or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy cheese sauce.
- Try Different Cheeses: Experiment with Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or smoked Gouda as partial substitutes for a different parmesan cheddar chicken flavor.
- Make it a Bake: Transfer finished pasta to a baking dish, top with extra cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F (190°C) until bubbly and golden for a baked cheddar chicken pasta.
- Protein Swaps: Use cooked shrimp, sliced smoked sausage, or leftover turkey for a different take on this easy chicken pasta dinner.
What to Serve with Cheddar Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Complete your Cheddar Parmesan Chicken Pasta meal with these ideal pairings:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the rich, creamy sauce of your cheesy chicken pasta.
- A Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts add nutrients and a lovely texture.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Maximize your Cheddar Parmesan Chicken Pasta by properly storing and reheating leftovers:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken pasta recipe in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Sauce will thicken. Reheat gently on stovetop over low heat, adding milk or broth to loosen, stirring frequently. Microwaving in short intervals is also an option.
- Freezing: Cream-based sauces may separate. Not ideal for best texture, but possible for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great, juicier alternative. Ensure they are cooked to 165°F (74°C). This adds richer flavor to your easy chicken pasta dinner, making a phenomenal Cheddar Parmesan Chicken Pasta.
How do I prevent my cheese sauce from being grainy?
Avoid pre-shredded cheese and high heat. Always shred your own from a block. Melt cheese over very low heat, stirring constantly, never letting the sauce boil. This is essential for a truly creamy Cheddar Parmesan Chicken Pasta sauce.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use your favorite gluten-free penne pasta and substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the roux. This ensures a delicious comfort food pasta dish, a versatile Cheddar Parmesan Chicken Pasta.
What can I use instead of Cajun seasoning?
A good substitute is a mix of ½ tsp smoked paprika, ¼ tsp garlic powder, ¼ tsp onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a similar warmth in your creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can cook the chicken and shred cheeses in advance. For optimal texture, combine pasta, chicken, and fresh sauce just before serving. This prevents the pasta from absorbing too much sauce, ensuring a perfect weeknight chicken pasta.
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