Get ready to fall in love with your new weeknight hero: Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta! This comforting dish brings together tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luxuriously creamy, cheesy sauce—all finished with an irresistibly golden, crispy topping. It’s one of those meals that feels like a big, warm hug, perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or when you just need a little extra comfort. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll quickly become one of your go-to favorites for its flavor, texture, and pure crowd-pleasing magic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta is that it uses simple, familiar ingredients that work together to create something truly special. Every item here has a job to do—whether it’s adding rich flavor, luscious creaminess, or that all-important crunchy finish.
- 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta: These shapes hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully—use your favorite for best results.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds subtle flavor and helps brown the chicken to juicy perfection.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces): Lean, tender protein that soaks up all the tasty seasonings.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For a gentle, savory backbone throughout the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Brings a warm color and just a hint of smokiness.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for bringing out all the flavors—taste and adjust as you cook!
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps form the base of our creamy sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh, aromatic garlic gives the sauce a delicious depth.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: This simple thickener turns the milk and cream into a silky, clingy sauce.
- 2 cups milk: Acts as the primary liquid for the sauce, making it light yet creamy.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: For that extra layer of lush creaminess—don’t skip it!
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts smoothly and gives that signature cheesy pull.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty finish that balances the sauce.
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers or panko breadcrumbs: The key to that unforgettable crunchy topping.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: Helps the topping turn perfectly golden and crisp.
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional for garnish): A fresh, colorful finishing touch.
How to Make Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add your chosen pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s just al dente. This little bit of bite means the pasta will hold up perfectly when tossed in the creamy sauce. Once done, drain it and set aside—don’t forget to reserve just a splash of the pasta water in case you want to loosen the sauce later!
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a big skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add your bite-sized chicken pieces, then season them with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sauté for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden and cooked through. This step is where your chicken gets its flavor boost and a lovely bit of color. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and keep it handy.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
Using the same skillet (no need to wash—it’s flavor central in there!), melt the butter over medium heat, then add the minced garlic. Let it sizzle for a minute to release all its aroma. Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for another minute; this forms the base of your sauce. Now, slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring until there are no lumps. Let the mixture simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens into a dreamy, velvety sauce.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and stir in your shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan. The cheeses will melt into the sauce, making it glossy, smooth, and oh-so-cheesy. This is when the kitchen really starts to smell irresistible!
Step 5: Bring Everything Together
Add the cooked pasta and chicken right into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together gently, making sure each piece is coated in that luscious, cheesy goodness. If the sauce seems a bit thick, a splash of reserved pasta water will do the trick.
Step 6: Make the Crunchy Topping
In a small bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers or panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter. This combo gives you the signature crunch that makes Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta so special. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the pasta in the skillet (or transfer everything to a baking dish for a more dramatic finish).
Step 7: Broil for Extra Crunch (Optional)
If you want an ultra-golden, crispy top, pop the skillet or baking dish under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes. Keep a close eye—things can go from golden to scorched quickly! Once it’s perfectly crisp and bubbling, remove from the oven and get ready to serve.
How to Serve Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley right before serving adds a burst of color and a little herbal brightness that cuts through all the rich, comforting flavors. For a bit of extra zing, you could also try a dusting of freshly cracked black pepper or even a grating of lemon zest.
Side Dishes
Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta shines as a main course but loves good company! Pair it with a crisp green salad—think arugula or romaine tossed with a tangy vinaigrette—or tuck in some steamed broccoli or garlicky green beans for a balanced meal. Warm garlic bread never hurts, either!
Creative Ways to Present
This dish looks gorgeous in a big family-style baking dish, especially with that golden topping. For a fun twist, serve individual portions in mini cocottes or ramekins for a dinner party. Or, scoop it into hollowed-out bread bowls for the ultimate comfort-food presentation—talk about wow factor!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta (lucky you!), let it cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll keep well for up to 3 days. The crunchy topping may soften a bit, but the flavors only get better as they mingle.
Freezing
Want to stash some away for a busy night? Freeze individual portions (or the whole batch) in freezer-safe containers without the crunchy topping. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then add a fresh layer of buttery crumbs before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
To bring back the magic, reheat Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta in a covered oven-safe dish at 350°F until hot and bubbly—about 15 to 20 minutes. Add a bit of milk if the sauce seems thick. For a crispy top, remove the cover and broil for a couple of minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While penne and rotini are fantastic for holding sauce, feel free to swap in your favorite short pasta shape, like fusilli, rigatoni, or even shells. Just aim for something with plenty of nooks and crannies to capture that creamy goodness.
What’s the best way to make this Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta gluten-free?
Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. For the crunchy topping, gluten-free crackers or gluten-free panko work beautifully—no one will ever know the difference!
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Stir in steamed broccoli, baby spinach, or even sautéed mushrooms when you combine the chicken and pasta with the sauce. Vegetables not only add color and nutrition but make Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta even more satisfying.
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking my own?
Yes! Rotisserie or leftover cooked chicken is a fantastic shortcut. Just chop or shred it, then add it to the sauce along with the cooked pasta. This swap can cut down your prep time, making this dish even more weeknight-friendly.
How do I keep the crunchy topping crispy?
For the crispiest results, add the topping just before baking or broiling, and don’t cover the dish while reheating. If you’re storing leftovers, add a fresh sprinkle of buttery crumbs before reheating to revive that signature crunch.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving comfort food that delivers big on both flavor and texture, you simply have to try Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta. It’s easy enough for a busy weeknight but special enough to share with friends or family. Give it a go—your tastebuds (and everyone at your table) will thank you!
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Creamy Crunchy Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This creamy crunchy chicken pasta combines tender chicken pieces and perfectly cooked pasta coated in a rich, cheesy sauce, topped with a buttery, crispy cracker or panko crumb topping. It’s a comforting dish perfect for weeknight dinners, with an option to broil for added crunch and a golden finish.
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Topping and Garnish
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers or panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the penne or rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5–6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter, then add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in flour and cook for another minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly and cooking until the sauce thickens, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Combine: Reduce heat to low, stir in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth. Return the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet and toss everything to coat evenly in the creamy cheese sauce.
- Prepare Topping and Broil (Optional): In a small bowl, mix crushed buttery crackers or panko breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the pasta. For extra crunch, transfer everything to a baking dish and broil in the oven for 2–3 minutes until the topping is golden and crispy.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the dish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy crunchy chicken pasta!
Notes
- For extra flavor, use garlic herb crackers or season your panko with Italian seasoning.
- Swap chicken for rotisserie chicken or leftover turkey to save time.
- Add steamed broccoli or spinach into the sauce for a nutritious veggie boost.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop + Optional Broil
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 530
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
