Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta Recipe

Introduction

Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta is a bold and flavorful dish that perfectly blends the heat of chipotle peppers with tender chicken and creamy pasta. This dish offers a zesty, smoky kick that will spice up any meal and is perfect for anyone craving a fiery dinner. The smoky chipotle sauce gives the pasta an irresistible depth of flavor while the juicy chicken adds heartiness. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering, this pasta recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s quick and simple to prepare.

The combination of smoky, spicy chipotle peppers, savory chicken, and a rich creamy sauce creates a fusion of flavors that’s sure to excite your taste buds. The creamy texture of the sauce complements the pasta perfectly, making every bite a satisfying experience. This guide will walk you through the easy-to-follow steps for preparing this dish, as well as offering tips for success and a few variations to try.

Why You’ll Love Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

• Bold, Smoky Flavor: The star of this dish is the chipotle pepper, which provides a smoky, spicy kick that elevates the flavor profile of the pasta, making it unforgettable.
• Perfectly Balanced: The creamy sauce balances out the heat, making each bite flavorful but not overpowering. The chicken adds richness and protein, turning this pasta into a full meal.
• Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, this dish can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
• Customizable: You can adjust the level of spiciness and creaminess to suit your personal preferences. Add more chipotle if you like it extra hot, or tone it down for a milder taste.
• Comforting and Filling: This pasta is hearty and satisfying, with the creamy chipotle sauce and chicken making for a comforting and delicious dish.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 500-600 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 500-600 kcal
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 45-50g
• Protein: 30-35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5-7g

Ingredients

For the Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta:

• 2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
• 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your preferred type)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (adjust based on your heat preference)
• 1/4 cup adobo sauce (from the chipotle peppers)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional, for a zesty finish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. Set the chicken aside while you prepare the pasta and sauce.

2. Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water to use in the sauce. Set the cooked pasta aside.

3. Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet you used to cook the chicken, add a little more olive oil (about 1 teaspoon) and sauté the chopped onion over medium heat until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Next, finely chop the chipotle peppers and add them to the skillet along with the adobo sauce. Stir to combine. Add the tomato paste, smoked paprika, and ground cumin, and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and create a deep, rich flavor.

4. Make the Creamy Chipotle Sauce

Once the spices have melded, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat and let the sauce cook for about 5 minutes, until it thickens slightly. You can add the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency of the sauce if it’s too thick. Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper as needed.

5. Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce

Add the sliced chicken to the skillet with the creamy chipotle sauce and stir to coat the chicken in the sauce. Then, add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy chipotle sauce.

If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth or pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. Stir until everything is well combined and heated through.

6. Garnish and Serve

Once everything is fully combined, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the pasta in bowls, garnished with fresh cilantro, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese (if desired), and a squeeze of lime juice for an extra pop of flavor.

This pasta pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a light salad to balance out the richness of the creamy sauce.

Tips for Perfect Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

• Adjust the Heat: Chipotle peppers can vary in heat, so if you prefer a milder sauce, start with one pepper and add more if you like it spicier. You can also remove the seeds from the peppers to reduce the heat.
• Use High-Quality Chicken: To make this dish extra special, opt for fresh, high-quality chicken breasts. You can also use chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful option.
• Make it Vegetarian: For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with grilled or roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You can also add beans like black beans or kidney beans for added protein.
• Control the Creaminess: For a lighter version of this dish, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative. This will reduce the richness while still maintaining the creamy texture.
• Pasta Variations: Feel free to use any type of pasta you prefer—penne, fettuccine, spaghetti, or even whole wheat pasta. Each will give a slightly different texture but still pair wonderfully with the sauce.

Variations of Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

• Chipotle Chicken Alfredo: For a twist on classic Alfredo, mix in Parmesan cheese into the sauce, allowing it to melt and make a rich, cheesy, chipotle-flavored sauce.
• Mexican Street Corn Spicy Pasta: Add grilled corn kernels to the pasta for a smoky, sweet element that complements the spicy sauce. You can also top the pasta with cotija cheese and a sprinkle of chili powder for a fun Mexican-inspired flavor.
• Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta with Bacon: Add crumbled crispy bacon to the pasta for an extra savory crunch. The smoky bacon pairs perfectly with the chipotle sauce and adds another layer of flavor.
• Shrimp Chipotle Pasta: Swap out the chicken for shrimp. Cooked shrimp will add a nice, light seafood touch to the pasta while still keeping the bold chipotle flavor.

Storage and Shelf Life

Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta is best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

If you want to freeze the pasta, transfer it to a freezer-safe container once cooled. The dish can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove, adding more liquid if necessary.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

Pair this fiery pasta with complementary sides and drinks to round out your meal:

• Side Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, avocado, and a light vinaigrette helps balance the spiciness of the pasta.
• Garlic Bread: A warm, crispy garlic bread is perfect for sopping up the creamy chipotle sauce.
• Grilled Vegetables: Grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add a nice contrast to the richness of the pasta.
• Refreshing Drink: Pair the meal with a chilled glass of white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a citrusy iced tea to cool down the heat.

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Conclusion

Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta delivers a perfect blend of smoky, spicy, and creamy flavors that will elevate your pasta game to the next level. The combination of chipotle peppers, tender chicken, and a rich creamy sauce creates a bold and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal for a gathering, this pasta will surely impress. With easy-to-follow instructions and customizable ingredients, you’ll be able to create this spicy, flavorful dish time and time again. Enjoy the deliciously smoky heat of Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta—it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!