This Cheesy Chicken Pasta is a comforting, creamy dish perfect for a hearty meal. It combines tender chicken, pasta, and a rich cheese sauce that will satisfy your cravings. Easy to make and packed with flavor, it’s ideal for a family dinner or meal prep.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced

• 8 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite)

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 2 cups milk

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Optional garnish: chopped parsley or basil

Directions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

3. Sprinkle the flour over the butter and garlic mixture and whisk constantly for about 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.

4. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook and stir until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes

5. Reduce heat to low and add cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Stir until cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth.

6. Add salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then mix in the cooked chicken and pasta. Stir well to coat everything evenly with the cheesy sauce.

7. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.

8. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil if desired, and serve immediately.

Nutrients (approximate per serving):

• Calories: 450 kcal

• Protein: 35 g

• Carbohydrates: 40 g

• Fat: 18 g

• Saturated Fat: 9 g

• Fiber: 2 g

• Sodium: 550 mg