Creamy Chipotle Chicken Pasta

If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances smoky, spicy, and creamy flavors, look no further than this Creamy Chipotle Chicken Pasta. It’s a one-pot wonder that brings tender chicken, luscious cream sauce, and just the right kick from chipotle peppers together in a comforting, rich pasta meal. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying and flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and easy to customize to your taste.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

This Creamy Chipotle Chicken Pasta is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it’s a fantastic way to elevate simple ingredients into a dish that feels gourmet but is straightforward to make. The chipotle peppers in adobo sauce add a smoky depth and mild heat that create a unique flavor profile you won’t find in typical pasta dishes. It’s perfect for those who love a little spice without overwhelming the palate.

Not only is it delicious, but it’s also quick to prepare, making it a perfect go-to for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. The cream sauce is rich and comforting, coating every bite of pasta and chicken beautifully. And with fresh cilantro as a garnish, it finishes with a bright, herbaceous note that balances the richness perfectly.

If you enjoy dishes like Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta or crave creamy, cheesy meals like Cheesy Chicken Taco Pasta, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

What You’ll Need

• 8 oz pasta of choice – penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work beautifully
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing the chicken
• 1 pound chicken breast, diced – boneless and skinless
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – adds subtle aromatic flavor
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – complements the garlic
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – for a smoky undertone
• 1 teaspoon chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced – adjust based on your spice preference
• 1 cup heavy cream – for that rich, creamy sauce
• 1 cup chicken broth – adds depth and moisture
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – melts into the sauce for savory goodness
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped – for garnish and freshness

Equipment at a Glance

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan for cooking chicken and sauce
• Colander to drain pasta
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Knife and cutting board for dicing chicken and chopping cilantro

Creamy Chipotle Chicken Pasta: From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your 8 oz pasta of choice and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast and season with 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Sauté the chicken until it’s golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Chipotle Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced 1 teaspoon chipotle pepper in adobo sauce and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in 1 cup chicken broth and 1 cup heavy cream. Stir well to combine, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 4: Incorporate Cheese and Chicken

Reduce the heat to low and add 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese melts into a smooth, creamy sauce. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing it evenly into the sauce.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the creamy chipotle chicken sauce. Toss everything together gently to coat the pasta in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped over the top. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Fresh Takes Through the Year

• Spring: Add fresh cherry tomatoes and asparagus for a bright, seasonal twist.
• Summer: Toss in grilled corn and diced avocado for a southwest-inspired vibe.
• Fall: Stir in roasted butternut squash cubes and a pinch of cinnamon for warmth.
• Winter: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms and kale for hearty, earthy notes.

Pro Perspective

For a perfectly balanced Creamy Chipotle Chicken Pasta, use fresh chipotle peppers in adobo sauce from a quality brand—you want that authentic smoky flavor without too much heat. When cooking the chicken, don’t overcrowd the pan; this ensures a nice sear, locking in juices and flavor. Finally, always add the cheese off the heat or on low to prevent curdling and keep the sauce silky smooth.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

This pasta dish stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens. For freezing, place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne or rigatoni are great for holding the creamy sauce, feel free to use fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti. Just cook according to package directions.

How spicy is this Creamy Chipotle Chicken Pasta?

The spice level is moderate thanks to the chipotle pepper in adobo sauce. You can adjust the amount to suit your heat preference—use less for a milder dish or add more for a smoky, spicy kick.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Use a dairy-free cheese or omit it entirely for a lighter sauce. Keep in mind this will alter the flavor slightly.

Can I prep this dish ahead of time?

You can dice the chicken and measure out the spices in advance. Cook the pasta fresh for best texture, but the sauce and chicken can be made a day ahead and reheated gently before combining with pasta.

Similar Recipes

• Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta – A bolder, fiery spin on chipotle chicken pasta.
• Cheesy Chicken Taco Pasta – A creamy, cheesy pasta infused with taco flavors.
• Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta – A fresh and herby creamy pasta with tomato and basil.

The Takeaway

This Creamy Chipotle Chicken Pasta nails the perfect harmony of smoky spice, creamy richness, and tender chicken, all tossed with your favorite pasta. It’s simple enough for a comforting weeknight meal but flavorful enough to impress family and friends. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add seasonal twists, this dish is destined to become a staple in your dinner lineup. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different pasta shapes or spice levels to make it your own!

Ready to dive into a plate of creamy, smoky goodness? Get your ingredients and equipment ready, and enjoy every bite of this irresistible Creamy Chipotle Chicken Pasta!

Share on Pinterest