Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta – Creamy, Smoky & Packed with Flavor
If you love creamy pasta with a kick, this spicy chicken chipotle pasta is about to become your new favorite dish. Inspired by restaurant-style flavors, this pasta blends smoky chipotle peppers, tender chicken, colorful veggies, and a luscious creamy sauce. The result? A comforting yet bold dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Chipotle peppers add depth and smokiness, while the creamy sauce balances out the heat beautifully. This recipe brings together everything you love about comfort food—pasta, chicken, and spice—with a restaurant-quality finish right in your kitchen.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
For the Chicken & Pasta:
- 1 lb (450 g) penne pasta (or your choice of pasta)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
For the Creamy Chipotle Sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped (adjust to spice preference)
- 2 tbsp adobo sauce (from the chipotle can)
- 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese (softened, optional for extra creaminess)
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- Extra parmesan cheese
Step by Step Cooking Guide
- Cook the pasta – Bring salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the chicken – Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook until golden and cooked through (6–7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- Sauté vegetables – In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic, onion, and bell peppers. Sauté until softened and slightly caramelized (5–6 minutes).
- Prepare chipotle sauce – Stir in chopped chipotle peppers and adobo sauce. Add chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in heavy cream and cream cheese, mixing until smooth.
- Add cheese & pasta – Stir in parmesan until sauce thickens. Return cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss everything until well coated.
- Serve & garnish – Top with fresh parsley or cilantro and extra parmesan. Serve hot and enjoy the bold, smoky flavors!
Cooking Time & Serving Size
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Serving Size: 4–6 servings
Tips & Variations
- Extra protein: Add shrimp, sausage, or even bacon for a meaty twist.
- Lighter version: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt.
- Veggie boost: Add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrients.
- More heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes.
- Cheese swap: Use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for a gooey finish.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving – Approximate
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 560 kcal |
| Protein | 32 g |
| Carbohydrates | 52 g |
| Fat | 24 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
Healthy Alternatives
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.
- Low-Carb/Keto: Swap pasta with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and vegan cheese alternatives.
- Low-Fat: Replace cream with evaporated skim milk or plain Greek yogurt.
Serving Suggestions
This spicy chicken chipotle pasta pairs perfectly with garlic bread, a fresh garden salad, or roasted vegetables. It’s hearty enough to be the star of your dinner table but versatile enough to work for meal prep or special gatherings.
Creamy, smoky, and just the right amount of spicy—it’s comfort food taken up a notch. Try it once, and it might just become a regular in your pasta rotation!
FAQ’s
Q1: Can I make spicy chicken chipotle pasta ahead of time?
Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
Q2: How spicy is this pasta?
The spice level depends on how many chipotle peppers you use. Start with one pepper and taste before adding more.
Q3: Can I freeze this pasta?
Yes, but the sauce may separate slightly upon thawing. Reheat gently while stirring in extra cream or broth.
Q4: What type of pasta works best?
Penne, rigatoni, or bowtie pasta works best because they hold the sauce well.
Q5: Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Skip the chicken and add mushrooms, zucchini, or tofu for a delicious vegetarian version.
