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Creamy Chicken Pasta

Creamy Chicken Pasta

The ultimate comfort food, Creamy Chicken Pasta is creamy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying. Perfect as an easy weeknight dinner, it’s a dish that everyone in the family will love. Make it tonight and enjoy the cozy flavors!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

  • 1 small head cauliflower stem discarded and chopped into small pieces; or about 4 cups florets
  • 1 cup milk warmed slightly
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • ¼ teaspoon salt (optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 pound pasta such as elbow or other mini pasta shape
  • 2 cups diced or shredded chicken fully cooked

Equipment

  • Calphalon 5-Quart Pot

Method
 

  1. Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the cauliflower and let it cook for about 8 to 10 minutes. You want it to be tender enough to poke with a fork, so keep an eye on it.
  2. Once the cauliflower is soft, use a fine-mesh strainer or slotted spoon to carefully remove it from the water and transfer it to a blender. This is where the magic begins!
  3. Add the milk, cheddar cheese, butter, salt, and garlic powder to the blender with the cauliflower. Blend everything until it’s smooth and creamy. The mixture should have a luscious texture that you can’t resist.
  4. Meanwhile, with the same pot of boiling water, add the pasta and cook according to the package directions. It’s essential to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  5. Once cooked, drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Add the chicken and give it a good stir to combine.
  6. Now, it’s time to add that amazing cheese sauce you just blended. Pour it into the pot with the pasta and chicken. Stir carefully until everything is well coated with that creamy goodness.
  7. At this point, you can decide how much sauce you’d like to use. Some might prefer a lighter coating, while others will want every noodle drenched in that cheesy sauce.
  8. Serve warm, and if your family prefers, you can set aside some of the chicken to serve on the side. It’s all about personal preference!
  9. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Chicken Pasta with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 5 days. To serve, warm in the microwave for about 30 to 60 seconds.
  • Freezing: You can freeze this dish! Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 2 months.
  • Pairing: This creamy dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp salad or some garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce.
  • Vegetarian option: Substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or a mix of your favorite vegetables for a vegetarian version.
  • Cheese choices: While cheddar cheese is a classic, try mixing in other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for different flavors.
  • Herb infusion: Leafy herbs like parsley or basil can be added for a fresh punch of flavor. Stir them in just before serving.