There’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of Creamy White Sauce Pasta. This dish combines tender, spiced chicken with a luxuriously smooth cheese sauce that clings perfectly to every bite of pasta. Whether you’re craving a cozy weeknight dinner or a quick yet impressive meal, this recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your kitchen.
2 chicken breasts, sliced in half
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 tsp salt
2 tsp black pepper
2 tsp paprika
2 tsp garlic powder
2 tsp Cajun seasoning
Oil, for cooking
2 tbsp butter
3 tbsp flour
500–700 ml milk (adjust for desired thickness)
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp chili flakes
1 tsp paprika
1 bowl shredded cheddar cheese
½ tsp chicken powder
½ cup reserved pasta water
500 g boiled pasta of choice (penne, fettuccine, or fusilli work great)
Parmesan cheese, for garnish
Oregano, for garnish
Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, mix chicken with lemon juice, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and Cajun seasoning. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Cook the Chicken:
Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside to rest.
Make the White Sauce:
In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk for 1–2 minutes to form a smooth roux.
Gradually whisk in milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
Add black pepper, chili flakes, paprika, and chicken powder.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
Pour in reserved pasta water and stir to reach your preferred sauce consistency.
Combine and Serve:
Toss the boiled pasta into the sauce until evenly coated.
Slice the cooked chicken and arrange it on top.
Garnish with Parmesan cheese and oregano.
Serve immediately with garlic bread or a crisp salad.
Creamier sauce: Add a splash of heavy cream or a small cube of cream cheese.
Spice level: Adjust Cajun seasoning and chili flakes to your taste.
Vegetarian version: Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat gently with a splash of milk.