🧀 White Cheddar Chicken Pasta

🧀 White Cheddar Chicken Pasta

This creamy white cheddar chicken pasta is a quick, family-friendly dinner packed with tender chicken, pasta, and a rich white cheddar cheese sauce. Perfect for weeknights or cozy weekends!

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🕒 Prep Time: 15 minutes

⏳ Cook Time: 20 minutes

🍽️ Servings: 4–6

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📝 Ingredients:

• 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or shells work great)
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• Optional: pinch of paprika or red pepper flakes for heat
• Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish

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👩‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken, season with salt & pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through (about 5–7 minutes). Remove chicken and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt butter (or use oil left from chicken). Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth. Simmer until slightly thickened (3–5 minutes).
5. Stir in the white cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Add cooked chicken and pasta, tossing to coat evenly.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices. Garnish if desired and serve hot.

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✅ Tips:

• Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker version.
• Add steamed broccoli, spinach, or peas for extra veggies.
• Swap white cheddar for gruyère or fontina for a flavor twist.

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🧊 Storage:

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.