Let me tell you about my absolute favorite dish: Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta! It’s this creamy and spicy wonder that just lights up my taste buds every single time. The combination of tender chicken, rich cheddar cheese, and that smoky chipotle flavor makes it a go-to comfort food for me. Plus, it comes together in a flash, which is perfect when I’m craving something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. I remember the first time I made it; the whole house smelled divine, and my family couldn’t wait to dig in! Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your home too!
Ingredients List
- 8 oz penne pasta: This pasta shape holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully. Make sure to measure it before cooking, and don’t forget to check the package for cooking times!
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced: Fresh chicken breast is best for this dish. Cut it into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This creamy goodness gives the dish its rich texture. Make sure it’s at room temperature before adding it to the skillet for a smoother blend.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Go for a sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor. I love the kind that melts beautifully, making the sauce super creamy!
- 2 tbsp chipotle in adobo sauce: This is where the magic happens! Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance, but I recommend starting with two tablespoons for that perfect kick.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Use this for sautéing the chicken. It adds flavor and keeps everything from sticking to the pan.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: A quick and easy way to infuse that delightful garlic flavor—no chopping required!
- 1 tsp onion powder: This adds a subtle sweetness to balance the spice. It’s a great shortcut when you’re in a hurry.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors together. I always start with a pinch and adjust as I go!
How to Prepare Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
First things first, let’s get that penne pasta cooked to perfection! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, add the 8 oz of penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 10-12 minutes. You want it al dente, so keep an eye on it! When it’s ready, drain the pasta and toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Now onto the chicken! In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add your diced chicken breast and season it with 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. Make sure there’s no pink left—this is key for safety and flavor!
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Time to bring the creamy goodness into play! Lower the heat slightly and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream along with the 2 tablespoons of chipotle in adobo sauce. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble away for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens up a bit. The aroma will be heavenly, and you’ll know you’re on the right track!
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Finally, let’s bring it all together! Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce and stir until it melts and becomes wonderfully creamy. Then, toss in the cooked penne pasta, making sure every piece is coated in that delicious sauce. Give it a good mix and let it cook for another minute or two to heat through. And voilà! Your Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta is ready to be devoured!
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Make sure to cook your penne just until it’s al dente. It’ll continue to cook when you toss it with the sauce, and you don’t want mushy pasta stealing the show!
- Adjust the Spice: If you’re not a fan of too much heat, start with just one tablespoon of chipotle sauce and taste before adding more. You can always spice it up, but you can’t take it back once it’s in!
- Shred Your Own Cheese: For the best melt and flavor, I recommend shredding your cheddar cheese from a block instead of using pre-shredded. It melts so much better and adds a richer taste!
- Add Fresh Herbs: Consider garnishing your finished dish with some fresh cilantro or parsley. It adds a pop of color and freshness that balances the richness of the pasta.
- Leftovers are Awesome: This dish stores beautifully! If you have any leftovers, just keep them in an airtight container in the fridge. When reheating, add a splash of cream or a bit of broth to keep it creamy!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of my delicious Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta. Keep in mind that these numbers can vary slightly based on the specific brands and quantities you use, but it’s a good starting point!
- Calories: 600
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 30g
This pasta dish is a hearty meal that’s rich in protein and packed with flavor. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite while knowing you’re fueling your body with good stuff!
FAQ Section
Can I use another type of pasta?
Absolutely! While I love penne for its ability to hold onto that creamy sauce, you can definitely swap it out for other pasta shapes. Fusilli or rotini are great options since their twists and turns capture the sauce beautifully. If you prefer something a bit lighter, try using spaghetti or even zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a low-carb twist! Just keep an eye on the cooking times, as different pasta shapes can vary.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
If you’re looking to crank up the heat, there are a few fun ways to do it! You can add more chipotle in adobo sauce to the dish—just remember to taste as you go to avoid overwhelming your palate. Another fantastic option is to toss in some sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes when cooking the chicken. For an extra kick, consider drizzling some hot sauce over the finished dish before serving. Wowza, your taste buds are in for a treat!
Can this dish be made ahead of time?
You bet! Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta is perfect for meal prep. You can cook everything up to the point of combining the pasta with the sauce, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or broth to keep it creamy and delicious. It’s a lifesaver for busy weeknights!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 35 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Creamy Texture: The combination of heavy cream and cheddar cheese creates a velvety sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta, making every bite a creamy delight!
- Flavorful Taste: The smoky chipotle in adobo sauce gives a unique kick that transforms ordinary chicken pasta into a flavor-packed meal that everyone will love.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level to your liking and add your favorite veggies or herbs to make this dish your own. The possibilities are endless!
- Perfect for Leftovers: This pasta dish is just as good the next day, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or enjoying leftovers for lunch.
- Kid-Friendly: With its cheesy goodness and mild spice, kids will love this dish as much as adults do. It’s a family favorite for sure!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to pairing sides with my Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta, I love to keep things simple yet flavorful! Here are some of my top suggestions that really enhance the meal:
- Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with some warm, buttery garlic bread on the side. It’s perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce!
- Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing touch. I like to toss in some cherry tomatoes and avocado for extra flavor and texture.
- Grilled Vegetables: A medley of grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus complements the richness of the pasta beautifully. Just a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt, and you’re good to go!
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top can help cool down the spice and adds a creamy element that’s simply delightful.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: For something a bit more substantial, serve it alongside cilantro lime rice. The zesty flavors really tie everything together!
Feel free to mix and match these options based on your cravings or what you have on hand. The goal is to create a well-rounded meal that everyone will rave about!
For more delicious recipes, check out our blog for inspiration!
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Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta: 35 Minutes to Flavor Bliss
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A creamy and spicy pasta dish featuring chicken and chipotle flavors.
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp chipotle in adobo sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced chicken, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Stir in heavy cream and chipotle sauce. Bring to a simmer.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet and mix to combine.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of chipotle based on your spice preference.
- Use grilled chicken for added flavor.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta