Go Back

Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake – Creamy, Comforting & Loaded With Melty Cheese

This Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake is the definition of comfort food: tender pasta coated in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, juicy bites of seasoned chicken, and a bubbly golden topping. It’s easy, hearty, and weeknight-friendly while still tasting like a crowd-pleasing indulgence. Perfect for busy days, cozy dinners, meal prep, or anytime you want a warm, cheesy hug in a bowl.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 lb 450g boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
For the Pasta
  • 12 oz 340g pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
  • Salt for boiling water
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp salt adjust to taste
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
For the Topping
  • ½ cup mozzarella
  • ¼ cup Parmesan
  • Fresh parsley optional

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowls
  • 9×13 baking dish
  • Whisk
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Cheese grater (optional)

Method
 

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
  1. Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside, tossing lightly with a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken
  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add chicken, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Cook 6–8 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Start the Cheese Sauce
  1. In the same skillet (or a new pan), melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk for 1 minute to create a roux.
Step 4: Add Milk and Cream
  1. Slowly pour in milk and heavy cream, whisking until smooth and slightly thickened.
Step 5: Add the Cheeses
  1. Add cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Stir until melted and creamy. Season with Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 6: Combine Pasta, Chicken & Sauce
  1. Stir cooked pasta and chicken into the warm cheese sauce until everything is coated evenly.
Step 7: Assemble the Bake
  1. Pour mixture into a 9×13 baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan for a bubbly crust.
Step 8: Bake Until Golden
  1. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18–22 minutes, or until the top is golden and cheese is melted.
Step 9: Finish & Serve
  1. Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Top with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or microwave in intervals.
Freeze unbaked or baked pasta for up to 2 months. Add extra sauce if freezing to prevent dryness.
🥄 Variations
Spicy Cheesy Chicken Pasta: Add chili flakes or diced jalapeños.
Veggie Boost: Add spinach, broccoli, or peas in the sauce.
Bacon Lover’s: Add crispy bacon bits to the bake.
Four Cheese Version: Add Gruyère or provolone for deeper flavor.
Tomato Twist: Stir in ½ cup marinara for a pink sauce.
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes—just stir it into the sauce in Step 6.
Can I make this without baking?
Absolutely—serve straight from the stovetop for a stovetop version.
Which pasta shape is best?
Penne, rotini, and shells hold the sauce well.
Can I use low-fat milk?
Yes, but the sauce will be less creamy.
Why is my sauce grainy?
Add cheese with the heat on low and whisk continuously.
Can I add veggies?
Yes—broccoli, spinach, mushrooms, or peas work great.
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes—just avoid overcooking it.
How do I prevent dry pasta bake?
Add extra ¼–½ cup milk or cream before baking.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes—assemble fully, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, but fresh-shredded melts smoother.
🏁 Conclusion
Creamy, comforting, and irresistibly cheesy, this Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake delivers a satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal every time. With tender chicken, melty cheese, and perfectly coated pasta, it’s the kind of recipe that becomes a weeknight staple—and a guaranteed family favorite.