This creamy queso chicken pasta is a warm hug in a bowl! It combines tender chicken, cheesy goodness, and pasta for a satisfying meal that’s sure to delight everyone.
Honestly, pasta with cheese is hard to beat—and this dish is no exception! I love making it on busy nights because it comes together quickly and is always a hit at the dinner table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend penne or rotini, but you can use any pasta you prefer! If you’re gluten-free, try gluten-free pasta or a whole grain option for a bit of a healthier twist.
Chicken: I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe, but you could also use thighs for more flavor. Leftover rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut too!
Cheese: Sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack give a lovely creamy taste. If you’re looking for a change, queso blanco or pepper jack add an extra kick! Vegan cheese can be substituted for a dairy-free option.
Canned diced green chilies: Choose mild or spicy based on your taste. If you don’t have them, diced bell peppers can work too. For extra spice, fresh jalapeños are a great alternative!
How Can I Make the Cream Sauce Extra Creamy?
Getting that perfect creamy queso sauce is key for this recipe. Following the right steps ensures a smooth finish. Here’s how to achieve that richness:
- Start with softened cream cheese – this helps it melt evenly.
- Once you add milk and chicken broth, mix thoroughly on low heat. No rushing allowed or it might separate!
- Add the cheeses gradually. Stir until each batch melts before adding more for the best creamy texture.
If you find the sauce is too thick, add a splash more milk to loosen it up. Remember, the pasta will soak up some sauce, so make it a bit saucier than you think you need!
How to Make Creamy Queso Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (about 3 cups) pasta (penne or rotini work well)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup canned diced green chilies (mild or spicy based on preference)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or a Mexican cheese blend)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: sliced jalapeños for extra heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy queso chicken pasta takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy way to get a flavorful meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Make sure to drain the pasta once it’s done and set it aside for later!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, or until it’s golden and cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet (no need to clean it), reduce the heat to medium and add the diced onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion is softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, just until it’s fragrant.
4. Add the Green Chilies and Spices:
Stir in the diced green chilies, ground cumin, and smoked paprika. Let everything cook together for about 1-2 minutes to blend the flavors nicely.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium-low. Add the softened cream cheese, milk, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
6. Mix in the Cheese:
Gradually sprinkle in the shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese melts and creates a rich sauce.
7. Combine Chicken and Pasta:
Return the cooked chicken back to the skillet and mix well to coat it in the creamy queso sauce. Then, add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
8. Final Touches:
Give it all a taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. Finally, garnish your creamy pasta with chopped fresh cilantro and sliced jalapeños for some extra zing, if you like it spicy.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your creamy queso chicken pasta immediately while it’s warm and delicious. It’s a wonderful treat that everyone will love. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne and rotini work great, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, like fusilli, shells, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the pasta type!
Can I Substitute the Cream Cheese for a Lighter Option?
Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt or a light cream cheese for a lighter version. Just keep in mind that it might change the flavor and texture slightly!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Definitely! You can replace the chicken with diced vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. For added protein, consider using black beans or chickpeas. Just sauté them in place of the chicken!
