Cheesy Chicken Pasta

5 from 1 vote

Easy cheesy chicken pasta in just 15 minutes. A simple garlic tomato sauce loaded with melted cheese and tender chicken.

Prep Time5

Cook Time10

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American, Italian

Servings:

Calories: 751kcal

Author: Helen

14 oz pasta (Note 1)
2 tablespoon butter
4 cloves garlic crushed
½ cup tomato puree
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon oregano
½ teaspoon chilli flakes optional
1.5 cups cheddar shredded (Note 2)
pasta water around 1 cup, enough to bring the sauce to your desired consistency
2.5 cups cooked chicken breast approx two large breasts (Note 3)

Cook the pasta according to packet instructions.
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat until foaming.
Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the tomato puree, paprika, oregano, and chilli flakes (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and slightly darkened.
Reduce heat to low and add the cheddar, stirring constantly until melted and glossy, 2-3 minutes.
Add pasta water, a little at a time, and whisk to loosen the sauce until it reaches the desired consistency.
Add the cooked chicken and toss to coat, warming through for 1-2 minutes.
Tip in the drained pasta and stir to combine, loosening with more pasta water as needed.

Notes:

Pasta. Short pasta works best. Rigatoni is my go-to, but penne, fusilli, and conchiglie are all great choices.
Cheese. See star ingredient section below.
Cooked chicken breast. Use leftover chicken or store-bought rotisserie chicken.