This creamy queso chicken pasta is a cozy and fun meal! It features tender chicken, cheesy queso, and perfectly cooked pasta all mixed into one dish. What’s not to love?
Whenever I make this, I feel like a kitchen superstar! It’s so easy and quick—perfect for a family dinner or something to impress friends. Plus, the cheese pulls are Instagram-worthy! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish, but you can also use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. Just shred it and toss it in at the end!
Pasta: I love using penne or rotini, but feel free to swap with any pasta you have on hand, like fusilli or even whole wheat options for a healthier twist.
Queso Cheese Dip: You can use store-bought queso for convenience, but homemade is so easy! Just melt cream cheese with some cheddar and add a bit of salsa. If you’re vegan, try a cashew cheese or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy milk like almond milk. Just be aware that this can change the richness of the sauce.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the chicken properly is key for a great flavor and texture. Here’s how I do it:
- Heat your olive oil until it shimmers before adding chicken. This helps sear the meat.
- Season the chicken well with salt, pepper, and spices before cooking for better flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed for even browning.
- Cut the chicken into uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
- Always check that chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
Following these tips will help you get perfectly cooked, flavorful chicken every time!
How to Make Creamy Queso Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
For The Sauce:
- 1 cup queso cheese dip (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness)
- Fresh cilantro or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You will need around 10 minutes to prepare the ingredients and another 20 minutes for cooking. A quick meal that’s full of flavor and comfort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente—this normally takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt, pepper, chili powder, and cumin. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, until it’s browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
Using the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes soft and fragrant. This will build a great flavor base for your dish!
4. Make the Cheese Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the queso cheese dip, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Keep stirring until the queso melts and the mixture is smooth and creamy. It’s okay if it thickens a little!
5. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it in the creamy cheese sauce, ensuring all the pieces are well coated with delicious cheesy goodness.
6. Mix in the Pasta:
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and stir everything together gently. Ensure all the pasta is well mixed with the sauce and chicken. If you’re feeling extra cheesy, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and let it melt into the sauce.
7. Final Seasoning:
Taste your creamy queso chicken pasta and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Remember, a little taste test goes a long way!
8. Serve and Garnish:
To finish, serve your pasta in bowls and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or green onions for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Dig in and enjoy your creamy, cheesy queso chicken pasta! It’s a delightful dish that’s sure to become a new favorite!
FAQ for Creamy Queso Chicken Pasta
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While queso cheese dip provides a creamy flavor, you can substitute it with other cheeses such as cream cheese, cheddar, or even a blend of Mexican cheeses. Just make sure to melt them well in the sauce for a smooth texture.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicy?
If you like a little heat, consider adding diced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or increase the chili powder in the recipe. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes for an added kick!
Can I Substitute the Chicken for Another Protein?
Yes! You can easily swap the chicken for cooked shrimp, ground turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly; shrimp will cook quickly, while ground turkey may take a few more minutes to brown.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens.
