Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

There’s something about the combination of flavors in Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta that just draws me in every time. I remember the first time I tried it at a family gathering, and everyone was buzzing about how delicious it was. The creamy, spicy sauce clings to the perfectly cooked pasta, while the tender chunks of chicken add a hearty bite. It quickly became a family favorite, and I just had to recreate it at home. Now, I often whip up this dish when I want to impress guests or simply when I crave that iconic flavor. Trust me, once you try Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta, you’ll be hooked, too!

Ingredients for Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

The ingredients for Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta work harmoniously to create a dish that is both hearty and indulgent. Each component plays a vital role; from the smokiness of the chipotle peppers to the richness of heavy cream, it all comes together beautifully. Let’s take a look at the key players:

• 12 ounces penne pasta – The backbone of this dish, providing a robust base that holds onto the creamy sauce.
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, diced – Adds protein and a savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the pasta.
• Salt and pepper – Essential seasonings that enhance the flavors of the dish.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – Used for sautéing, it adds richness and helps brown the chicken.
• 1 yellow onion, minced – Brings sweetness and depth to the dish.
• 1 red bell pepper, diced – Adds color, crunch, and a hint of sweetness.
• ¾ pound asparagus, coarsely diced – Introduces a fresh, green element that complements the other flavors.
• 1 cup frozen peas – A pop of sweetness and more texture to the pasta.
• 1 (7 ounce) can chipotle peppers in adobo sauce – Provides the signature smoky heat that makes this dish stand out.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor.
• ¼ cup honey – Balances the heat of the chipotle and adds a touch of sweetness.
• 2 cups heavy cream – Creates a rich and creamy sauce that envelops the pasta.
• ½ cup parmesan cheese, shredded – Adds a savory, cheesy element to the dish.
• Chopped cilantro – A fresh garnish that enhances the flavor and presentation.
• Shredded parmesan cheese – Extra cheese for topping, making each serving even more delicious.

Recipe Directions for Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

Cooking Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta is an enjoyable process that fills your kitchen with enticing aromas. Follow these steps for a delightful dish that everyone will love:

1. Cook 12 ounces of penne pasta according to package directions until just al dente. Make sure to reserve some pasta water for later, as it can help adjust the sauce consistency.
2. While the pasta is cooking, cut 1 pound of boneless skinless chicken breast into 1-inch pieces and season with salt and pepper. It’s important to season the chicken well so it enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
3. Prepare the vegetables. Remove the tough ends from ¾ pound of asparagus, then chop coarsely. This will help them cook evenly and become tender.
4. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and sauté until browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Look for a golden brown color to ensure it’s cooked properly.
5. To the pan, add the yellow onion, red bell pepper, asparagus, and 1 cup of frozen peas. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, which should take around 10 minutes. The onions should become translucent, and the peppers should soften.
6. Remove the chipotle peppers from the 1 (7 ounce) can of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, reserving the adobo sauce. Dice the chipotle peppers into smaller pieces. This step is where the heat comes in, so adjust to your preference.
7. Add in 3 tablespoons of diced chipotle peppers and 2 cloves of minced garlic to the pan with the chicken and vegetables. Continue to sauté for another 2 minutes, ensuring the garlic doesn’t burn.
8. Pour in ¼ cup of the reserved adobo sauce, along with ¼ cup of honey, 2 cups of heavy cream, and ½ cup of shredded parmesan cheese. Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together, allowing the cheese to melt and the sauce to thicken a little.
9. Once the sauce is combined, stir in the cooked pasta. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
10. Finally, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro and some additional shredded parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy every bite!

Recipe Notes about Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

As with any recipe, there are a few tips to keep in mind when making Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge. This dish reheats well!
• Freezing: You can freeze this pasta for up to 2 months. Just be sure to leave the garnishes off until you’re ready to serve.
• Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition.
• Garnish: A squeeze of lime or some avocado slices can elevate this dish even further.
• Serving Size: This recipe makes generous servings, perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

Serving Options for Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

When it comes to serving Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta, there are countless options to consider:

• Pair with a salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta perfectly.
• Serve with garlic bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor of garlic bread makes for an irresistible side.
• Perfect for gatherings: This dish is excellent for potlucks or family gatherings where you want to impress guests.
• Occasions: Ideal for casual dinners, a cozy family meal, or even a date night in, where you want to create a lovely atmosphere.
• Leftovers for lunches: Pack leftovers in a container for a satisfying lunch that will keep you energized throughout the day.
• Seasonal pairings: This dish shines in any season but can be particularly delightful in the fall when comfort food is on everyone’s mind.

FAQ

Conclusion

The wonderful combination of creamy and smoky flavors is what makes Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta such a standout dish. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to the table. I encourage you to try this recipe—it’s sure to become a favorite in your household just as it has in mine. Happy cooking!

Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

The ultimate comfort food, Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta combines creamy flavors with a smoky kick that satisfies your cravings. This easy weeknight dinner is sure to impress, making it a must-try tonight!

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 650

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 12 ounces penne pasta
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast diced
• to taste salt
• to taste pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 piece yellow onion minced
• 1 piece red bell pepper diced
• ¾ pound asparagus coarsely diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 can chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• ¼ cup honey
• 2 cups heavy cream
• ½ cup parmesan cheese shredded
• to taste salt to taste
• chopped cilantro
• shredded parmesan cheese

Equipment

• Skillet
• Frying Pan
• Large Pot
• Saucepan
• Chef's Knife
• Cutting Board
• Wooden Spoon

Method

 

1. Cook 12 ounces of penne pasta according to package directions until just al dente.
2. While the pasta is cooking, cut 1 pound of boneless skinless chicken breast into 1-inch pieces and season with salt and pepper.
3. Prepare the vegetables. Remove the tough ends from ¾ pound of asparagus, then chop coarsely.
4. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and sauté until browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes.
5. To the pan, add the yellow onion, red bell pepper, asparagus, and 1 cup of frozen peas. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, which should take around 10 minutes.
6. Remove the chipotle peppers from the 1 (7 ounce) can of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, reserving the adobo sauce. Dice the chipotle peppers into smaller pieces.
7. Add in 3 tablespoons of diced chipotle peppers and 2 cloves of minced garlic to the pan with the chicken and vegetables. Continue to sauté for another 2 minutes.
8. Pour in ¼ cup of the reserved adobo sauce, along with ¼ cup of honey, 2 cups of heavy cream, and ½ cup of shredded parmesan cheese. Add salt and pepper to taste.
9. Once the sauce is combined, stir in the cooked pasta then bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
10. Finally, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro and some additional shredded parmesan cheese on top.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.
• Tip 2: You can freeze this pasta for up to 2 months.
• Tip 3: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition.
• Tip 4: A squeeze of lime or some avocado slices can elevate this dish even further.
• Tip 5: This recipe makes generous servings, perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

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Meet Delilah Moon

We eat with our eyes first, and I strive to capture the energy of our food through photography. I am deeply involved in the cooking process, styling our dishes to show you exactly how appetizing they can be. I hope this recipe inspires you to get creative and confident in your own kitchen.