White Sauce Pasta with Grilled Chicken

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Creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly comforting – White Sauce Pasta with Grilled Chicken is the ultimate dish to satisfy your pasta cravings. This recipe brings together silky smooth white sauce clinging to perfectly cooked pasta, finished with juicy, spiced grilled chicken slices. It’s a beautiful balance of richness and savory protein that turns a simple pasta dish into a restaurant-worthy experience.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekend meals, this pasta is easy to whip up yet impressive enough to serve to guests. Whether you’re cooking for one or for the family, the creamy garlic-infused sauce paired with tender pasta and golden-seared chicken will have everyone asking for seconds.

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Why You’ll Love This White Sauce Pasta with Grilled Chicken

This dish delivers a rich, satisfying bite every time, thanks to the homemade white sauce that blends cream, garlic, and cheese into perfection. The grilled chicken adds texture, flavor, and protein, making it a complete meal. Even better? It’s fully customizable. You can add veggies, spice it up with chili flakes, or use any pasta shape you love.

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What Kind of Pasta Works Best for White Sauce?

While fettuccine and penne are popular choices, any pasta that holds sauce well will work beautifully. Think rotini, farfalle, or rigatoni. The key is to choose a pasta that traps that delicious creamy sauce in every bite. For a lighter version, whole wheat or gluten-free pasta options work too.

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Ingredients for the White Sauce Pasta with Grilled Chicken

Every component of this dish adds something special to the overall flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Pasta (Fettuccine or Penne): A sturdy pasta that can hold the creamy white sauce well.
• Butter: Forms the base of the sauce and adds rich flavor.
• Garlic (Minced): Infuses the sauce with a deep, savory aroma.
• All-purpose Flour: Used to thicken the sauce into a velvety consistency.
• Milk: The main liquid element that makes the sauce smooth and creamy.
• Heavy Cream (optional): Adds extra richness and a luxurious texture.
• Parmesan Cheese (Grated): Gives the sauce its iconic cheesy taste.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To season and enhance all the flavors.
• Chili Flakes (optional): Adds a mild kick for those who like it spicy.
• Cooked Chicken Breast (Grilled and Sliced): Provides a smoky, savory protein element that perfectly complements the pasta.
• Parsley (Chopped): For a pop of color and fresh finish.

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How To Make the White Sauce Pasta with Grilled Chicken

Step 1: Grill the Chicken

Season chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite spices. Grill them in a pan or on a grill until golden and cooked through. Slice and set aside.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the White Sauce Base

In a large pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.

Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce

Gradually whisk in milk (and cream if using), making sure no lumps form. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens. Add grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Stir until cheese melts and sauce is smooth.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until well coated. Let it simmer on low for 1-2 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 6: Serve and Top with Chicken

Plate the creamy pasta, top with sliced grilled chicken, and garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

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Serving and Storing White Sauce Pasta with Grilled Chicken

This comforting pasta dish serves 3 to 4 people generously, especially when topped with the juicy grilled chicken. It’s best served hot, straight from the pan, when the sauce is creamy and the chicken is tender.

To store leftovers, place the pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to bring back its creamy texture. The chicken can be stored separately and warmed in a skillet or microwave.

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What to Serve With White Sauce Pasta with Grilled Chicken?

Garlic Bread

A slice of warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any extra sauce left on your plate.

Simple Green Salad

A light side salad with vinaigrette balances out the richness of the white sauce.

Roasted Vegetables

Try roasted broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers to add color and nutrients.

Steamed Asparagus

Its crisp texture and earthy taste contrast beautifully with the creamy pasta.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Add a savory umami note that complements the Parmesan in the sauce.

Caesar Salad

With its crunchy croutons and tangy dressing, it’s a crowd-pleaser alongside pasta.

Lemon-Herb Zucchini

Quick to sauté and bright in flavor, zucchini adds a fresh touch.

Sparkling Water with Lemon

For a light and refreshing beverage that cleanses the palate.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta and chicken a day in advance. Store the sauce and pasta separately if possible. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to bring back the creaminess.

What kind of milk should I use for the white sauce?
Whole milk gives the richest flavor and texture, but you can use 2% or even non-dairy options like oat or almond milk for a lighter version.

Can I add vegetables to this pasta?
Absolutely! Broccoli, spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers work great. Just cook them before mixing them into the sauce.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming lumpy?
Whisk constantly when adding the milk and make sure the flour is fully mixed with the butter before adding liquids. This helps keep the sauce silky smooth.

What other protein can I use besides chicken?
You can swap grilled chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even crispy tofu for a vegetarian alternative.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you toss in mushrooms or try a spicy version? Maybe you paired it with a glass of white wine?

I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. Got a question or tip? Drop it below so we can all enjoy better cooking at home.

For more recipes like this, visit my Pinterest page where I share daily comfort meals and kitchen inspiration.

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Conclusion

White Sauce Pasta with Grilled Chicken is more than just a dish – it’s a cozy meal that hits all the right notes. Creamy, savory, and satisfying, it’s perfect for weeknights, dinner parties, or whenever you need something a little indulgent. Easy to customize and even easier to love, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

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