Spicy Chicken Alfredo Penne

If you’re craving a creamy, comforting pasta dish with a fiery kick, look no further than this Spicy Chicken Alfredo Penne. This recipe blends tender, juicy chicken with a luscious, garlicky Alfredo sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta. The red pepper flakes add just the right amount of heat to elevate this classic Italian favorite into something truly memorable. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds and become a new favorite in your dinner rotation.

Why It Deserves a Spot

Spicy Chicken Alfredo Penne stands out because it combines the richness of traditional Alfredo with a bold, spicy twist. The creamy sauce coats every piece of pasta and chicken, delivering a luxurious mouthfeel, while the red pepper flakes provide a subtle heat that keeps every bite interesting. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both simple to prepare and impressive on the plate. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe—perfect for customizing with your favorite herbs, adding extra vegetables, or pairing with a crisp side salad.

For those who love dishes like the Baked Three Cheese Chicken Penne, this Spicy Chicken Alfredo Penne offers a fresh, stovetop alternative with a spicy flair that’s just as satisfying.

Gather These Ingredients

• 8 ounces penne pasta – the perfect shape to hold onto the creamy sauce.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing the chicken to golden perfection.
• 1 pound chicken breast, diced – tender pieces that soak up all the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – adds a subtle, savory depth.
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes – the source of that delightful, spicy kick.
• Salt and pepper to taste – essential seasoning to balance the dish.
• 1 cup heavy cream – creates the rich, velvety sauce.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – the star ingredient for authentic Alfredo flavor.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth – adds moisture and layers of flavor without heaviness.
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning – a blend of herbs to elevate the dish.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – adds a bright, fresh contrast.

Equipment Breakdown

• Large pot – for boiling the penne pasta.
• Large skillet or sauté pan – to cook the chicken and prepare the sauce.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – for stirring the sauce without scratching your pan.
• Colander – to drain the pasta.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient amounts.
• Grater – to freshly grate the Parmesan cheese, which makes all the difference.

Stepwise Method: Spicy Chicken Alfredo Penne

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente – usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water just in case you want to loosen the sauce later.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine and scraping up any browned bits from the chicken. Add the Italian seasoning and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Combine

Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.

Step 5: Toss Pasta in Sauce

Add the cooked penne to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side, if desired.

Healthier Substitutions

• Use whole wheat or chickpea penne pasta to boost fiber and protein content.
• Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce.
• Choose skinless chicken thighs instead of breast for juicier meat with a bit more fat.
• Reduce red pepper flakes if you prefer a milder heat, or add diced bell peppers for extra veggies.
• Replace Parmesan with a lower-fat hard cheese or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

Cook’s Notes

• Make sure not to overcook the chicken; diced pieces cook quickly and remain tender when watched carefully.
• Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and has a richer flavor than pre-grated varieties.
• If the sauce thickens too much before combining with pasta, add reserved pasta water gradually to loosen it.
• For an extra layer of flavor, sauté a minced garlic clove with the chicken before adding spices.
• Feel free to swap penne with other pasta shapes like rotini or fusilli to vary textures.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

This Spicy Chicken Alfredo Penne is perfect for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to revive the creamy sauce and heat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Avoid overcooking during reheating to keep the chicken tender and the pasta from becoming mushy.

For freezing, place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Handy Q&A

Can I use other types of pasta for this dish?

Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding the sauce, you can substitute with fusilli, rotini, or rigatoni. Just be sure to adjust cooking times according to the pasta’s instructions.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free creamer, and replace Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese alternative to maintain the cheesy flavor.

How spicy is the Spicy Chicken Alfredo Penne?

The heat level comes primarily from the red pepper flakes. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount or omit them altogether. You can also add jalapeños or hot sauce for a different kind of heat.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! Vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or broccoli pair wonderfully with the creamy sauce and chicken. Add them at appropriate stages—mushrooms and peppers sautéed with the chicken, and spinach stirred in at the end to wilt gently.

Try These Next

• Baked Three Cheese Chicken Penne – a cheesy, baked pasta dish with a crispy topping.
• Smoky Paprika Chicken Rotini Skillet – a smoky, flavorful pasta skillet with tender chicken and rotini pasta.

Final Bite

There’s something undeniably comforting about a creamy pasta dish, and this Spicy Chicken Alfredo Penne delivers that comfort with an exciting twist. The blend of rich Parmesan cream sauce, tender chicken, and spicy red pepper flakes strikes a perfect balance that’s sure to impress your family or guests. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen beginner, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Enjoy every forkful of this spicy, creamy delight!

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