Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors and a little kick of heat, Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta is exactly what you need. This creamy, smoky, and slightly spicy pasta dish marries tender chicken with the rich flavor of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, perfectly balanced with fresh vegetables and a luscious parmesan cream sauce. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s quick enough for weeknights but special enough to impress guests. Plus, it’s incredibly satisfying and versatile, making it one of my favorite go-to meals when I want something comforting yet exciting.

Why It’s My Go-To

What makes this Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta stand out for me is the incredible depth of flavor packed into every bite. The chipotle peppers add a smoky heat without overwhelming the palate, while the cream and parmesan create a silky sauce that coats every piece of pasta beautifully. It’s also a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies like corn and cherry tomatoes, which add bursts of sweetness and freshness. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this dish delivers on flavor, texture, and ease.

Plus, it’s a wonderful alternative if you’ve enjoyed recipes like the Chipotle Lime Shrimp Penne or the Smoky Paprika Chicken Rotini Skillet—both of which bring their own unique smoky twists with chipotle and smoked paprika. This pasta recipe is definitely one you’ll want to add to your rotation.

What Goes In

• 8 ounces penne pasta – the perfect shape to hold onto that creamy sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing and flavor
• 1 pound chicken breast, diced – tender and protein-packed
• 1 tablespoon chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced – the smoky, spicy heart of the dish
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – for a savory base note
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – adds a subtle sweetness
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – enhances the smoky flavor
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper – ramps up the heat just right
• 1 cup heavy cream – creates that rich, velvety sauce
• 1 cup chicken broth – balances the creaminess and adds depth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – juicy bursts of freshness
• 1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen – a touch of natural sweetness
• Salt and pepper to taste – to season perfectly
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – for that nutty, cheesy finish
• Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish – adds a bright, herbaceous note

Must-Have Equipment

• Large pot – to boil your penne pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan – for cooking the chicken and sauce
• Colander – to drain the pasta
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – perfect for stirring without scratching
• Knife and cutting board – for prepping chicken and vegetables
• Measuring cups and spoons – to keep your recipe on point

Make Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta: A Simple Method

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Stir in the minced chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, allowing it to coat the chicken evenly. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting it thicken slightly for 3-5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Veggies

Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and corn kernels. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the veggies are tender but still vibrant. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy chipotle sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

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

Make It Year-Round

• Use frozen corn when fresh isn’t available – it works just as well and adds sweetness.
• Swap cherry tomatoes with sun-dried tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes in colder months.
• Try chicken thighs instead of breast for juicier, more flavorful meat.
• Adjust the heat by adding more or less chipotle pepper or cayenne pepper according to your preference.
• For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.

Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them

• Overcooking the chicken: Dice the chicken uniformly and cook on medium-high heat to avoid dry, tough pieces.
• Sauce too thin: Let the sauce simmer longer, or add a bit more Parmesan to thicken it up.
• Sauce too thick: Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce gradually without watering down the flavor.
• Too spicy: Start with less chipotle and cayenne, then adjust after tasting the sauce.
• Undercooked pasta: Follow package instructions closely and taste for doneness before draining.

Best Ways to Store

Store any leftover Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to restore the creamy texture and heat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. This pasta freezes well too—just portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Quick Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne is great for holding the sauce, but you can use rigatoni, rotini, or even fusilli. Each shape will cling to the creamy chipotle sauce beautifully.

How spicy is this dish?

This recipe has a medium heat level thanks to the chipotle in adobo and cayenne pepper. You can easily adjust the spice up or down by modifying the amounts to suit your taste buds.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative and a dairy-free Parmesan substitute to keep the creaminess while making it dairy-free.

Is it okay to use frozen chicken?

You can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before dicing and cooking to avoid excess moisture.

Reader Favorites

• Chipotle Lime Shrimp Penne – A zesty seafood pasta with a smoky chipotle twist.
• Smoky Paprika Chicken Rotini Skillet – Another smoky, comforting chicken pasta dish you’ll love.
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta – A simple yet indulgent classic.
• Spicy Sriracha Chicken Noodles – For those who want an Asian-inspired heat fix.

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to dive into making this irresistible Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta. From the first sizzle of chicken in the pan to the creamy, spicy sauce coating tender penne, you’re in for a flavor-packed meal that’s sure to satisfy. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend treat, this pasta is a winner every time. Enjoy the wonderful blend of smoky chipotle heat, fresh vegetables, and cheesy goodness. Happy cooking!

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