White Cheddar Chicken Pasta

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this creamy, cheesy White Cheddar Chicken Pasta. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this dish combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, flavorful white cheddar sauce.

Recipe Highlights

• Course: Side Dish
• Cuisine: American
• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 6

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 ½ tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dry mustard
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Pasta:

• 1 pound short-cut pasta (such as rotini)

For the Cheesy Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• ¼ cup dry white wine
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 8 oz white cheddar cheese, grated
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1–2 tbsp fresh thyme
• 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

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Instructions

1. Season the Chicken:
   In a small bowl, mix dry mustard, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the chicken breasts, sliced into strips or cubes.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
3. Cook the Pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
   In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to form a roux. Add minced garlic, diced onions, white wine, and Dijon mustard, stirring well. Cook for 3–5 minutes until the onions soften.
5. Make It Creamy:
   Gradually add milk in small portions, stirring well after each addition. Cook over low heat for 4–6 minutes, or until the sauce thickens. Stir in grated white cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Combine Everything:
   Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss until evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   Sprinkle with fresh thyme, crushed red pepper flakes, or smoked paprika for an extra flavor boost. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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Rich, cheesy, and bursting with savory flavor, this White Cheddar Chicken Pasta is a comforting dish that will quickly become a household favorite. Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or as a hearty side for special occasions! ????✨