Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the chicken

01 - 2 chicken breasts, skinless and boneless
02 - 1 ½ tbsp olive oil
03 - 1 tsp dry mustard
04 - ½ tsp dried thyme
05 - ½ tsp dried oregano
06 - salt, to taste
07 - freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ For the pasta

08 - 1 pound short-cut pasta

→ For the cheesy and creamy sauce

09 - 2 tbsp butter
10 - 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
11 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
12 - 1 yellow onion, diced
13 - ¼ cup dry white wine
14 - 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
15 - 8 oz white cheddar cheese, grated
16 - 2 cups whole milk
17 - 1-2 tbsp fresh thyme
18 - 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

# Instructions:

01 - In a small bowl, combine dry mustard, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Set aside.
02 - Slice chicken breasts into thin strips or cut into 1-inch cubes. Sprinkle with seasoning mixture. In a large skillet, heat olive oil, and cook chicken for a few minutes or until cooked and browned. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate. Set aside.
03 - Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil. Add salt and pasta. Cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
04 - Melt butter in the same skillet in which you cooked chicken. When melted, add all-purpose flour and mix it together. Then, add dry white wine, minced garlic, diced onions, and Dijon mustard. Mix to combine. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until onions soften.
05 - Slowly pour milk in a few additions. Stir after each addition. Cook on low for 4-6 minutes or until thickened. Then, add shredded white cheddar cheese. Mix and cook until melted.
06 - Finally, add cooked chicken and pasta. Mix until completely covered with creamy and cheesy sauce. Serve immediately. Sprinkle with fresh thyme, crushed red pepper flakes, or smoked paprika.

# Notes:

01 - You can use any type of short pasta such as penne, fusilli, or farfalle.
02 - For a lighter version, substitute whole milk with 2% milk.
03 - The dish is best served immediately while the sauce is creamy.