Cheesy Chicken Pasta Comfort (Print-Friendly Version)

Creamy pasta with tender chicken in a rich cheese sauce, perfect for busy nights and cozy gatherings.

# What You’ll Need to Make This:

→ Chicken

01 - 2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
02 - 1.5 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 1 teaspoon dried mustard
04 - 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
05 - 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
06 - Salt, to taste
07 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Pasta

08 - 450 grams short-cut pasta

→ Cheese Sauce

09 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
10 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
11 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
12 - 1 yellow onion, diced
13 - 60 millilitres dry white wine
14 - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
15 - 225 grams white cheddar cheese, grated
16 - 480 millilitres whole milk
17 - 1 to 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, plus extra for serving
18 - 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, for serving

# How to Prepare:

01 - Combine dried mustard, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl and mix well.
02 - Slice chicken breasts into thin strips or cut into 2.5 cm cubes. Sprinkle chicken evenly with the seasoning mixture. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken. Cook for 4–6 minutes until browned and fully cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
03 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
04 - Melt butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Add flour and whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes until smooth. Stir in dry white wine, garlic, onion, and Dijon mustard. Sauté for 3–5 minutes until onions are softened. Gradually add milk in several additions, stirring after each, and cook on low for 4–6 minutes until thickened.
05 - Add grated white cheddar to the thickened sauce and stir until melted and smooth. Return cooked chicken and drained pasta to the skillet. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated with the sauce.
06 - Serve immediately, garnished with fresh thyme and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Optionally, add smoked paprika to taste.

# Extra Tips:

01 - For best results, grate cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded to ensure a smoother sauce.

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