Are you a fan of creamy, cheesy, and savory dishes? Look no further! Chicken and cheese are a match made in heaven, and when combined with various ingredients and cooking methods, they can create endless delicious possibilities. Whether you’re planning a cozy night at home, a casual gathering with friends, or a special occasion like a birthday party or holiday celebration, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering chicken and cheese recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic comfort food dishes to creative twists on familiar favorites, our collection includes something for everyone. So go ahead, get ready to tantalize your taste buds, and let’s dive into the world of creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious!
Creamy Chicken and Cheese Casserole
This comforting casserole is a perfect blend of juicy chicken, creamy sauce, and melted cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy breadcrumb topping. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that’s sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and paprika.
4. Add the cream mixture to the skillet with the chicken mixture and stir to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
7. Top with breadcrumbs and drizzle with melted butter.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Chicken and Cheese Quesadillas
This recipe combines the bold flavors of spicy chicken, melted cheese, and crispy tortillas to create a mouthwatering snack or meal. With just a few simple ingredients and quick cooking time, you’ll be enjoying these delicious quesadillas in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1/4 cup diced jalapeño peppers
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp chili powder
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the chicken, onion, garlic, jalapeño, cumin, chili powder, and paprika until the chicken is cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In a separate pan, cook one tortilla for 30 seconds on each side to warm it up.
4. Place the tortilla in the skillet with the chicken mixture and sprinkle shredded cheese on half of the tortilla.
5. Fold the tortilla in half and cook until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake
This comforting pasta bake combines the richness of alfredo sauce with the creaminess of melted cheese and tender chicken, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 8 ounces pasta (such as fettuccine or linguine)
– 2 cups alfredo sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, alfredo sauce, and pasta. Mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with dried basil. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Cheese Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines tender chicken, creamy cheese, and crunchy bell peppers. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion!
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper over medium-high heat until chicken is cooked through.
4. Stir in cooked rice and shredded cheese until combined.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken mixture, filling to the top.
6. Drizzle olive oil over peppers and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Cheese Dip
Elevate your snack game with this mouthwatering combination of crispy chicken, savory garlic parmesan dip, and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a quick gathering or party.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Arrange the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the chicken is baking, heat the mozzarella cheese in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes or until melted and bubbly.
6. Serve the warm garlic parmesan dip with the baked chicken pieces. Garnish with parsley.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Buffalo Chicken and Cheese Taquitos
Get ready to level up your snack game with these crispy, cheesy, and spicy Buffalo Chicken and Cheese Taquitos. Perfect for game day or any time you need a flavorful fix.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken breast, buffalo wing sauce, and a pinch of salt.
3. Lay a tortilla flat and spoon about 1 tablespoon of the chicken mixture onto the center of the tortilla.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the chicken.
5. Roll the taquito tightly but gently, and place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with vegetable oil and bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chicken and Cheese Enchiladas
Get ready to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying Mexican-inspired dish with this easy-to-make recipe for chicken and cheese enchiladas. This classic comfort food is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shredded chicken and cook until heated through.
3. In a separate pan, warm the tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side.
4. Assemble the enchiladas by placing a few pieces of chicken onto the center of each tortilla, then sprinkle with cheese and roll up tightly.
5. Place the rolled enchiladas seam-side down in a baking dish and pour the enchilada sauce over them.
6. Sprinkle the top with additional cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Chicken and Cheese Chimichangas
Transform traditional chimichangas into a healthier, baked version by swapping fried tortillas with crispy puff pastry. This recipe combines tender chicken, melted cheese, and savory spices for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix chicken, cheese, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into six equal squares.
4. Place about 1 tablespoon of the chicken mixture in the center of each square. Brush edges with beaten egg.
5. Fold pastry squares into triangles, pressing edges to seal. Brush tops with cooking spray or oil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
A comforting and satisfying casserole that combines the flavors of chicken, broccoli, and cheese. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 1/2 cups frozen white corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken, broccoli, cheddar cheese, milk, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Top with corn kernels and feta cheese (if using).
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Cheese Lasagna Rolls
A twist on classic lasagna, these rolls are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Layers of chicken, cheese, and pasta come together in a delicious, easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz lasagna noodles
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, combine chicken, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Spread a thin layer of the chicken mixture onto each noodle, leaving a 1-inch border on both sides.
5. Roll up each noodle tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove foil and top with additional mozzarella cheese. Return to oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this mouthwatering combination of tender chicken, melted cheese, and earthy mushrooms. Perfect for a party or cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (button or cremini work well)
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, cheese, parsley, and garlic.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the chicken mixture, dividing it evenly among the caps.
4. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Cheese Empanadas
These savory pastries are a delicious twist on traditional empanadas, filled with shredded chicken and melted cheese. Perfect as an appetizer or snack for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup warm water
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 pound cooked, shredded chicken
+ 1/2 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
+ 1 tablespoon olive oil
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and vegetable oil. Gradually add warm water until a dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into 4-6 equal portions, depending on desired empanada size.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
5. Place a tablespoon of filling in the center of each circle. Fold dough over filling to form a half-moon shape, and press edges together to seal.
6. Brush tops with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, cheesy, and satisfying dish featuring chicken, spinach, and jumbo shells. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, combine chicken, spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the chicken-spinach mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish, cover with marinara sauce, and top with mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Chicken and Cheese Pot Pie
This classic recipe combines tender chicken, creamy cheese, and flaky pastry to create a warm, satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed cheese (Cheddar, Swiss, Parmesan), shredded
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish.
3. In a separate pan, cook the chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Mix in the cheese, flour, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the filling into the pie crust and top with another pie crust or mashed potatoes.
6. Brush with egg wash and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Chicken and Cheese Tater Tot Casserole
This comforting casserole combines crispy tater tots with tender chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and a hint of spice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and diced
– 2 cups tater tots
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken, tater tots, cheddar cheese, milk, butter, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well until the tater tots are evenly coated with the mixture.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken and Cheese French Bread Pizza
Transform a classic comfort food into a crowd-pleasing snack with this easy recipe for chicken and cheese French bread pizza.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of French bread (approximately 12 inches)
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cooked and diced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the French bread in half lengthwise.
3. In a small bowl, mix together chicken, mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, olive oil, and oregano.
4. Spread the chicken-cheese mixture evenly onto the French bread.
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chicken and Cheese Calzones
Looking for a satisfying snack or meal that’s easy to make? Look no further! These chicken and cheese calzones are a flavorful and fun twist on traditional pizza.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a bowl, mix together chicken, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush tops with olive oil and beat an egg for a glaze (optional).
7. Bake calzones for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Cheese Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Transform zucchinis into a flavorful and nutritious main dish by filling them with juicy chicken and melted cheese. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, mix chicken, cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each zucchini boat with the chicken mixture, dividing it evenly among the four boats.
5. Grease a baking dish with olive oil and arrange the stuffed zucchinis inside.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole is a classic combination of chicken, rice, and cheese that’s easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner. With its creamy sauce and crunchy topping, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, chicken, peas and carrots, and thyme.
3. In a separate bowl, mix milk and butter until smooth.
4. Pour the milk mixture over the rice mixture and stir until combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with grated cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Cheese Sliders with Garlic Butter
These bite-sized sliders are packed with flavor, featuring juicy chicken, melted cheese, and a rich garlic butter spread. Perfect for parties or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 4 hamburger buns
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toast hamburger buns on the grill or in oven.
5. Assemble sliders by spreading garlic butter on each bun, followed by a slice of chicken, a sprinkle of cheese, and finally top with another bun.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to savor the perfect combination of flavors! This article brings you 20 mouth-watering chicken and cheese recipes that are sure to please every palate. From classic comfort food like creamy casseroles and cheesy pasta bakes, to spicy quesadillas and savory empanadas, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dish for the weekend, these recipes are sure to impress. So go ahead, get cooking, and indulge in the delightful union of chicken and cheese!
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