A rich, creamy pasta dish made with juicy chicken, a three-cheese sauce, and pantry staples. Perfect for a comforting dinner any night of the week.
12 oz short pasta (penne, rotini, elbows)
1 lb chicken breast or thighs, diced
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
3 tbsp butter
½ cup diced onion
2–3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1½ cups milk (or half-and-half)
½ cup chicken broth
1½ cups shredded cheddar
1 cup shredded mozzarella
¼ cup grated Parmesan
Salt, pepper, paprika, Italian herbs to taste
Boil pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook seasoned chicken in oil until golden and cooked through. Set aside.
In the same pan, sauté onion and garlic in butter. Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes.
Slowly add milk and broth, whisking until thickened.
Add cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
Return chicken and pasta to the pan and mix well.
Optional: Transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese, and broil until golden.