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Cheesy Chicken Pasta

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This Cheesy Chicken Pasta is a creamy, comforting one-pan dish made with pasta shells, tender chicken, a tangy tomato cream sauce, and plenty of melty cheese. Perfect for a quick, satisfying weeknight meal.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz pasta shells
  • 1 tbsp oil (olive or neutral)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp red chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1–2 tsp sriracha (optional)
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/3 cup double cream or heavy cream
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup reserved pasta water (as needed)
  • Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta shells in salted water with a bit of oil until al dente. Drain and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
  2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant.
  3. Add chicken and season with garlic powder, chili powder, pepper, salt, onion powder, paprika, and oregano. Cook until browned and fully cooked.
  4. Stir in tomato paste and sriracha, cook for 1 minute.
  5. Add milk and cream, stirring to create a smooth sauce.
  6. Add cooked pasta and toss to combine. Loosen sauce with reserved pasta water as needed.
  7. Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella, then top with remaining cheese. Cover and let melt.
  8. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Notes

  • Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
  • Mix cheese types for added flavor depth.
  • Loosen sauce with milk or pasta water when reheating.
  • Swap pasta shapes based on preference or availability.
  • Not ideal for freezing due to cream content.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyliza.com/cheesy-chicken-pasta/