Creamy Spicy Chipotle Chicken Pasta
introduction
Creamy Spicy Chipotle Chicken Pasta is a delicious and simple dish that brings the heat and creaminess together in one satisfying meal. This pasta recipe is rich, flavorful, and perfect for any day of the week. Whether you need a quick dinner or something special, this dish will impress your family and friends.
why make this recipe
There are many reasons to make Creamy Spicy Chipotle Chicken Pasta. First, it combines creamy flavors with a spicy kick, making it an exciting option for those who enjoy bold tastes. It is also easy to prepare, requiring only a few ingredients and simple steps. Plus, it’s versatile; you can adjust the spiciness to suit your preferences and add any vegetables you like for extra nutrition. In just under 30 minutes, you can have a tasty meal that everyone will love.
how to make Creamy Spicy Chipotle Chicken Pasta
To prepare this delicious pasta dish, follow the easy steps below.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (e.g., penne or spaghetti)
- 1 lb chicken breasts, diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2-3 tablespoons chipotle in adobo sauce, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. When finished, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until it turns golden and is cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Add Garlic: Once the chicken is done, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant. This step is important as it enhances the overall flavor of your dish.
Make the Sauce: Stir in the chipotle in adobo sauce, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the flavors meld together.
Add Cheese: Once simmered, add the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. This step adds richness and depth to your sauce.
Combine with Pasta: Toss the cooked pasta in the skillet with the sauce. Ensure all the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce. Use a spatula or tongs to mix everything together so that the sauce reaches every piece of pasta.
Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a little and adjust as you prefer, remembering that the chipotle sauce already adds some spice and flavor.
Serve: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a touch of freshness. Enjoy your creamy spicy chipotle chicken pasta while it’s hot!
how to serve Creamy Spicy Chipotle Chicken Pasta
Creamy Spicy Chipotle Chicken Pasta is best served immediately while it’s hot and creamy. You can plate the pasta in individual bowls or on a large serving dish. For an added touch, sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan cheese or a few more pinches of chopped parsley on top before serving. Pair it with a crisp green salad and some garlic bread for a complete meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
how to store Creamy Spicy Chipotle Chicken Pasta
If you have leftovers (which can be a great benefit of this dish), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, you can reheat them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. If the pasta seems dry after cooling, you might add a splash of chicken broth or cream while reheating to regain its creamy texture.
tips to make Creamy Spicy Chipotle Chicken Pasta
Adjust Spice Level: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a smaller amount of chipotle in adobo sauce and add more as necessary. You can also remove the seeds from the chipotles to reduce the heat.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and good-quality Parmesan cheese will elevate the flavor. Fresh parsley garnished on top adds not just color but also a fresh taste.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta until just al dente. It will continue to cook when mixed with the warm sauce, so don’t let it get too soft before combining.
Add Vegetables: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the dish, such as spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. They can be sautéed with the chicken or added at the end.
Experiment with Other Proteins: While chicken is great, you could also use shrimp or even leave out the meat and focus on making it a creamy vegetable pasta.
variation
You can customize this recipe in various ways to suit your taste:
Cheesy Broccoli Chipotle Pasta: Add steamed broccoli florets to the pasta for extra nutrition and a lovely green color.
Buffalo Chipotle Chicken Pasta: Mix in some buffalo sauce along with the chipotle for an even spicier kick.
Lighter Version: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter cream to reduce calories while still keeping a creamy texture.
Vegan Option: Use plant-based chicken or tofu, coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and nutritional yeast to replace Parmesan cheese.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can pre-cook the chicken and prepare the sauce. Store them separately in the fridge and mix them with the freshly cooked pasta just before serving.What can I serve with Creamy Spicy Chipotle Chicken Pasta?
This pasta pairs well with a fresh side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread. You can also enjoy it with a light white wine or iced tea.Can I freeze Creamy Spicy Chipotle Chicken Pasta?
While it’s possible to freeze this dish, the texture of the pasta and sauce may change upon reheating. If freezing, consider freezing the sauce separately and cooking fresh pasta when ready to serve.Is there a way to make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! You can use plant-based chicken, coconut cream, and nutritional yeast to achieve a similar taste without animal products.How can I make the dish creamier?
If you want an extra creamy sauce, feel free to add a bit more cream and some cream cheese during the cooking process. Just be sure to stir well to combine.
There you have it! Enjoy making this delightful creamy spicy chipotle chicken pasta and savor every bit of its deliciousness.
Print
Creamy Spicy Chipotle Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delicious pasta dish that combines creamy flavors with a spicy kick, perfect for any day of the week.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (e.g., penne or spaghetti)
- 1 lb chicken breasts, diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2–3 tablespoons chipotle in adobo sauce, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. When finished, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until it turns golden and is cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Add Garlic: Once the chicken is done, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in the chipotle in adobo sauce, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Cheese: Once simmered, add the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
- Combine with Pasta: Toss the cooked pasta in the skillet with the sauce. Ensure all the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce.
- Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Notes
For added richness, you can adjust the spice level and include your favorite vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg