Creamy Chipotle Chicken Pasta Recipe

This Creamy Chipotle Chicken Pasta Recipe is a delicious and smoky fusion of bold chipotle flavors and creamy pasta goodness. With tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious sauce, this dish is a surefire crowd-pleaser for any dinner table. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight meal or something to impress your guests, this recipe ticks all the boxes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Bold Flavors: Chipotle peppers bring smoky heat that perfectly complements the creamy sauce.
2. Quick and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
3. Versatile: Easily customizable with different proteins, pasta shapes, or spice levels.
4. Comfort Food: A rich and creamy sauce paired with tender chicken and pasta makes for an indulgent treat.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Chipotle Cream Sauce

1. In the same skillet used for the chicken, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in the chopped chipotle peppers and adobo sauce, cooking for another minute to release their smoky flavor.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
5. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, and reserved pasta water (as needed) to create a smooth, creamy consistency.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the sauce.
2. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated with the creamy chipotle sauce.
3. Let the pasta cook in the sauce for 2–3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, extra Parmesan cheese, and a squeeze of lime juice if desired.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Success

Ingredient Substitutions

• Protein: Swap chicken for shrimp, turkey, or tofu for a different twist.
• Cream: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter or dairy-free option.
• Pasta: Try spaghetti, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier choice.

Cooking Tips

• Sauce Consistency: Use reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce to your desired thickness.
• Balance the Heat: If the dish is too spicy, add a splash of milk or extra cream to mellow the flavor.
• Prepping Ahead: Chop the garlic and chipotle peppers in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Variations

Vegetarian Option

• Replace chicken with roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms.

Extra Heat

• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce to intensify the spice level.

Smokier Flavor

• Incorporate smoked sausage or chorizo into the dish for an extra layer of smokiness.

Pairing Suggestions

• Sides: Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables.
• Beverages: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing sparkling water with lime.
• Desserts: Finish with a light dessert like lemon sorbet or fresh berries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish less spicy?

Yes! Reduce the amount of chipotle peppers and adobo sauce, or substitute with mild paprika for flavor without heat.

Can I use leftover chicken?

Absolutely. Shred or chop pre-cooked chicken and add it to the sauce just before combining with the pasta.

What’s the best way to reheat this dish without drying it out?

Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to maintain the creamy consistency.

Conclusion

This Creamy Chipotle Chicken Pasta Recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining smoky, spicy chipotle flavors with a rich and creamy sauce. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this dish will quickly become a favorite. It’s versatile, easy to make, and guaranteed to satisfy every craving for a hearty and flavorful meal.

Yield: 4

Creamy Chipotle Chicken Pasta Recipe

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This Creamy Chipotle Chicken Pasta Recipe is a delicious and smoky fusion of bold chipotle flavors and creamy pasta goodness. With tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious sauce, this dish is a surefire crowd-pleaser for any dinner table. Whether you're looking for a comforting weeknight meal or something to impress your guests, this recipe ticks all the boxes.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Total Time 35 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Chicken:
• 2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• For the Sauce:
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, chopped (or more for extra heat)
• 1 tablespoon adobo sauce
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• For the Pasta:
• 12 oz penne pasta (or pasta of choice)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking pasta)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 9–10 minutes.
3. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water, and toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Chicken

1. While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and cumin.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice into thin strips.

3. Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Stir in the chopped chipotle pepper and adobo sauce, and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
5. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, lime juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for another 2-3 minutes.

4. Combine Pasta and Chicken

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss to coat evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add some reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
2. Add the sliced chicken on top, mixing it in to combine.

5. Serve and Garnish

1. Serve the creamy chipotle chicken pasta in bowls.
2. Garnish with fresh cilantro and extra Parmesan, if desired.
3. Enjoy with a side of crusty bread or a light salad!

Notes

Extra spice: If you love more heat, add an extra chipotle pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce.

Make it lighter: Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.

Customize the pasta: Try different pasta shapes like fettuccine or rigatoni to suit your preference.