Chicken & Ham Pasta

By:

Marry

Published:

April 2, 2026

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Creamy Chicken and Ham Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that checks all the boxes—it’s creamy, savory, and incredibly satisfying. Featuring tender chicken and deliciously smoky ham, this dish takes the classic pasta experience to a whole new level. Picture a creamy sauce clinging to perfectly cooked spaghetti or bucatoni, all topped off with crispy bacon and crunchy parmesan that creates a delightful combination of textures you won’t want to miss.

I first stumbled upon this Chicken and Ham Pasta recipe during a family gathering where everyone was clamoring for seconds. It’s a meal that effortlessly brings people together, thanks to its rich flavors and heartwarming ingredients. Not only is this dish outrageously delicious, but it’s also simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests. Trust me, once you try it, this recipe will become a favorite in your household, and you’ll love how quickly it comes together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: This dish comes together in just 35 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
Irresistible Flavor: The unique blend of chicken, ham, and rich cheeses creates a creamy sauce that’s bursting with flavor.
Eye-Catching Appeal: With its golden and crispy toppings, this dish not only tastes great but also looks impressively delicious!
Flexible Serving: Ideal for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep on Sundays; it’s great any day of the week.
Comforting & Hearty: With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s like a warm hug in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

12 oz spaghetti or bucatoni: This is the base of the dish, and both pasta types hold the sauce beautifully. Bucatoni offers a unique tube shape that captures more sauce.
1½ cups cooked chopped chicken: Use leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand to save time.
1 cup diced ham: Adds a wonderful depth of flavor and savory goodness. If you don’t have ham, you could use turkey or skip it altogether for a lighter dish.
1 tbsp brown sugar: This slight sweetness balances the saltiness of the ham.
1 lb bacon: Crispy bacon adds texture and flavor, making the final dish irresistible.
½ cup grated parmesan cheese: Adds richness to the sauce; fresh from the block melts better than pre-grated.
2 tbsp butter: Used to create a roux for the sauce, balancing flavors.
2 tbsp all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce, giving it a creamy consistency.
1 tsp garlic powder: A convenient way to infuse that delicious garlic flavor.
1 tsp onion powder: Further enhances the flavor profile without the need for chopping onions.
1 tsp dried basil: Adds an aromatic freshness that elevates the dish.
¼ tsp red pepper flakes: A pinch of heat without overwhelming the flavors—feel free to adjust.
½ tsp black pepper: Provides seasoning and depth, enhancing the overall taste.
1 cup chicken broth: A flavorful base for the creamy sauce; low-sodium is best to control salt levels.
1 cup half-and-half: This blend of cream and milk creates the perfect creamy texture.
1 cup milk: Lightens the sauce slightly while still keeping it rich and creamy.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully and gives a delicious kick to the sauce, but feel free to substitute with any cheese you prefer.
1 cup grated parmesan cheese (for topping): A finishing touch, ensuring that every bite is cheesy and satisfying.

How to Make Chicken & Ham Pasta

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add 12 oz of spaghetti or bucatoni and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Prepare the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook 1 lb of bacon over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, drain the bacon on paper towels to absorb excess fat and cut it into chunks or crumbles.
Sauté the Ham: In a bit of the leftover bacon grease, add 1 cup of diced ham and cook until heated through. Sprinkle with 1 tbsp of brown sugar and toss until the ham is golden and caramelized. Remove the ham from the skillet and set it aside.
Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in 2 tbsp of all-purpose flour along with 1 tsp of garlic powder, 1 tsp of onion powder, 1 tsp of dried basil, ¼ tsp of red pepper flakes, and ½ tsp of black pepper. Cook until bubbly. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of chicken broth, 1 cup of half-and-half, and 1 cup of milk until smooth. Keep whisking for about 7 to 8 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Add the Cheeses: Lower the heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Combine Everything: Add the cooked chicken and caramelized ham to the creamy cheese sauce. Stir to combine, then keep it warm on low heat. Toss the drained pasta in the sauce, ensuring it’s well-coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Plate the Chicken & Ham Pasta and top with crumbled bacon and extra parmesan cheese for that irresistible finishing touch.

Storing & Reheating

Leftover Chicken & Ham Pasta can be stored at room temperature for a couple of hours but should be refrigerated within that time to maintain freshness. Store in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within 3-4 days. If you’d like to freeze it, portion it out into freezer-safe bags, where it can last for up to 3 months. For reheating, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly upon freezing, but it will still be delicious.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid Overcooking the Pasta: Since the pasta will cook a bit more when mixed with the sauce, be sure to cook it al dente for the best texture.
Use Fresh Ingredients: If possible, use freshly grated cheese and fresh herbs instead of dried for heightened flavors.
Adjust Seasonings: Tasting as you go is essential! Each ingredient brings its personality, so don’t hesitate to modify the spices to suit your preference.
Consider Add-ins: Want to boost the veggie content? Try adding spinach or peas to the dish for extra color and nutrition.
Make-Ahead Ready: This pasta can easily be made ahead of time and reheated, making it a fantastic choice for meal prep or family dinners.

With its creamy texture and savory flavors, this Chicken & Ham Pasta is sure to bring a smile to the faces of those you share it with. Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, don’t forget to enjoy an extra helping (or two)! Feel free to experiment with the ingredients and make this recipe your own—it’s all about enjoying every delicious bite.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use fresh pasta instead of dried pasta?

Absolutely! Fresh pasta cooks much quicker than dried pasta, so be sure to watch it closely. Fresh pasta usually cooks in just 2 to 4 minutes, depending on the thickness, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.

What can I substitute for the bacon?

If you’d prefer a lighter option or are looking to make this dish less rich, consider using turkey bacon or omitting it altogether. You can also add sautéed mushrooms or crumbled sausage for a different flavor profile.

Can this recipe be made dairy-free?

Yes! For a dairy-free version, substitute the cream and milk with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk. Use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

The best way to reheat Chicken & Ham Pasta is on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of milk to help bring it back to life, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it can dry out the dish.