Description

Rich, creamy, and packed with bold flavor, this White Cheddar Chicken Pasta is your go-to for an indulgent yet easy dinner idea. Featuring tender chicken breasts tossed with al dente pasta in a velvety white cheddar sauce, this dish is pure comfort on a plate. A sprinkle of crispy bacon and fresh herbs makes it irresistibly savory. Whether you’re looking for quick weeknight dinners, hearty food ideas, or comforting pasta dishes, this recipe delivers every time. From the bubbling cheese to the golden chicken, it’s a meal that satisfies on every level. A must-have in your collection of easy recipes!

Ingredients

Scale

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
12 oz penne pasta
2 tablespoons butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
2 cups sharp white cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
4 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional but recommended)
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
1/2 cup reserved pasta water (optional, for thinning sauce)

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne until al dente, then drain and set aside. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chicken with a bit of oil or butter until golden and fully cooked (6–7 minutes per side). Remove, let rest, then slice.
In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (30 seconds). Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
Gradually whisk in heavy cream. Let it simmer gently, then reduce heat and add the shredded white cheddar. Stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Add cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and toss gently to coat. Use pasta water to thin sauce if needed.
Add sliced chicken on top. Sprinkle with bacon bits and garnish with chopped parsley.
Serve hot and enjoy!