Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience! This mouthwatering Cheesy Chicken Breast Pasta is not just a meal, it's a creamy, flavor-packed journey that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luxuriously rich cheese sauce that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds. Whether you're a busy home cook or a passionate foodie, this recipe promises restaurant-quality deliciousness right in your own kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the chicken breasts. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the pan.
- Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The chicken should be golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board. Allow it to cool for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- Pour heavy cream into the skillet with garlic, stirring to combine and create a creamy base. Reduce heat to medium-low.
- Add shredded cheese to the cream sauce, stirring continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Drain the cooked pasta and add it directly to the cheese sauce. Gently toss to coat the pasta evenly.
- Add the sliced chicken to the pasta and sauce, stirring to combine and ensure everything is heated through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, garnishing with extra shredded cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee safe and juicy meat.
- Cheese Melting Hack: Grate your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded varieties for a smoother, more luxurious sauce.
- Pasta Perfection: Cook pasta just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
- Flavor Boost: Consider adding a pinch of dried herbs like basil or oregano to enhance the overall taste profile.
- Don't Rush the Garlic: Sauté garlic briefly to release its flavor without burning, which can make it bitter.
- Resting Matters: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to help retain its juices when slicing.
- Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water to thin it out and create a silky texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 625kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
