Sarah BrownWhen it comes to serving up something delicious, I always find that the best meals are the ones that pack a punch. This Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta is no exception!
It’s a fantastic dish that not only satisfies your hunger but also leaves your taste buds dancing. Before I dive into the details of this recipe, let’s talk about what can accompany it.
To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing this pasta with a fresh garden salad. A simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette will balance the richness of the pasta.
Think about adding a side of garlic bread, too. It’s great for sopping up any leftover sauce—trust me, you won’t want to leave any behind! For a drink, I recommend a light white wine or a refreshing lemonade to counter the spice.
Why This Recipe Is Great for You
Now, let me share why this Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta is a go-to in my kitchen. First off, it’s incredibly versatile. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just whipping up a weeknight meal, it fits the bill.
The balance of protein from the chicken and the carbs from the pasta makes it surprisingly filling. Plus, the vibrant vegetables add essential nutrients while keeping the dish colorful.
Beyond its nutritional value, the flavors in this pasta are what truly make it shine. The smoky chipotle sauce, the sweetness of honey, and the creamy texture come together in perfect harmony. After a long day, this recipe does the magic of lifting my spirits—I can bet it will do the same for you!
You will also like the following Lunch and Dinner recipes!
- Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken
- Copycat Slow Cooker Vegetable Beef Soup
- How to make Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno
How I Use the Ingredients
Each ingredient plays a role in creating a delightful dish. The penne pasta provides a sturdy base, ready to catch all that rich sauce. The chicken adds protein, making it both satisfying and hearty.
I like to sauté the veggies until they’re just tender, keeping some crunch intact; that’s essential for texture. The frozen peas and asparagus not only contribute to the flavor but also pack a nutritious punch.
Let’s not forget the flavor enhancers! Chipotle sauce brings a spicy kick, while honey balances it out with a touch of sweetness. And of course, the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese? They make everything velvety smooth.
As I throw in a few sun-dried tomatoes and a dash of smoked paprika, I can already imagine the magical combination of flavors I’m about to unleash.
Ingredients
1 pound penne pasta
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch chunks)
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
¼ cup pure honey
2 tablespoons chipotle sauce (from canned adobo peppers)
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
½ medium yellow onion (chopped)
1 yellow bell pepper (chopped)
1 red bell pepper (chopped)
3 garlic cloves (finely minced)
1 cup frozen green peas
1 pound slender asparagus (trimmed)
2 cups heavy whipping cream
6 ounces shredded Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon chopped sun-dried tomatoes (for tangy sweetness)
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (for warmth and color)
Crunchy tortilla strip toppings
Chopped fresh cilantro leaves
How to Make Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta
Ready to get cooking? Let me guide you through the process step-by-step!
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
First things first, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 10-11 minutes. Drain and set it aside, but make sure to keep a cup of the pasta water for later.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, throw in the chicken pieces. Season with kosher salt and pepper, sautéing until they are golden brown and cooked through—this takes about 6-8 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
Next, toss in the chopped onion, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté for another 4-5 minutes until the veggies soften but still have some crunch. The aroma will be inviting, trust me on that!
Step 4: Incorporate the Greens
Now it’s time to add the frozen green peas and trimmed asparagus. Give them a gentle stir, allowing them to cook through for another 2-3 minutes. The green peas will add a sweet pop, while the asparagus brings a unique flavor.
Step 5: Create the Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream, honey, chipotle sauce, and lemon juice. Stir everything so it’s well combined. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5 minutes. If it’s too thick, add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Cheesy Goodness
Grab your shredded Parmesan cheese and mix it into the sauce until it’s melted. This is where the magic happens. The sauce should become creamy and luscious.
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, gently tossing until every piece is coated with that irresistible sauce. Lastly, stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and smoked paprika. A couple of turns in the skillet, and your dinner is practically plated.
Step 8: Serve with Style
Plate the pasta and garnish with tortilla strips and fresh cilantro, if you like. The crunchiness of the tortilla strips mixed with the creamy pasta provides a delightful texture contrast.
Recipe Notes
Penne Pasta: Sturdy and hollow, perfect for holding onto sauces.
Boneless, Skinless Chicken: Lean, easy to cook, and versatile.
Chipotle Sauce: Offers a smoky heat that makes the dish unforgettable.
Heavy Cream: Transforms the sauce into a rich, decadent delight.
Honey: Balances the heat from the chipotle, bringing sweetness to the dish.
Sun-dried Tomatoes: Adds a punch of tanginess and enhances the flavor profile.
Recipe Variations
You can definitely play around with this recipe. Interested in a vegetarian twist? Substitute the chicken with roasted mushrooms or zucchini.
If you want it spicier, add a couple more tablespoons of chipotle sauce! Swap in your favorite veggies or even whole wheat pasta for a health boost.
Nutritional Information
Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta
Equipment
- Large skillet
Ingredients
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup pure honey
- 2 tablespoons chipotle sauce from canned adobo peppers
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
- ½ medium yellow onion chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper chopped
- 1 red bell pepper chopped
- 3 garlic cloves finely minced
- 1 cup frozen green peas
- 1 pound slender asparagus trimmed
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 6 ounces shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a hint of tangy sweetness
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika for warmth and color
- Crunchy tortilla strip toppings
- Chopped fresh cilantro leaves
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- First things first, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 10-11 minutes. Drain and set it aside, but make sure to keep a cup of the pasta water for later.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, throw in the chicken pieces. Season with kosher salt and pepper, sautéing until they are golden brown and cooked through—this takes about 6-8 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
- Next, toss in the chopped onion, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté for another 4-5 minutes until the veggies soften but still have some crunch. The aroma will be inviting, trust me on that!
Step 4: Incorporate the Greens
- Now it’s time to add the frozen green peas and trimmed asparagus. Give them a gentle stir, allowing them to cook through for another 2-3 minutes. The green peas will add a sweet pop, while the asparagus brings a unique flavor.
Step 5: Create the Sauce
- Lower the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream, honey, chipotle sauce, and lemon juice. Stir everything so it’s well combined. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5 minutes. If it’s too thick, add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Cheesy Goodness
- Grab your shredded Parmesan cheese and mix it into the sauce until it’s melted. This is where the magic happens. The sauce should become creamy and luscious.
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, gently tossing until every piece is coated with that irresistible sauce. Lastly, stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and smoked paprika. A couple of turns in the skillet, and your dinner is practically plated.
Step 8: Serve with Style
- Plate the pasta and garnish with tortilla strips and fresh cilantro, if you like. The crunchiness of the tortilla strips mixed with the creamy pasta provides a delightful texture contrast.
Notes
- Penne Pasta: Sturdy and hollow, perfect for holding onto sauces.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken: Lean, easy to cook, and versatile.
- Chipotle Sauce: Offers a smoky heat that makes the dish unforgettable.
- Heavy Cream: Transforms the sauce into a rich, decadent delight.
- Honey: Balances the heat from the chipotle, bringing sweetness to the dish.
- Sun-dried Tomatoes: Adds a punch of tanginess and enhances the flavor profile.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the pasta up to a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Place leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. If the pasta dries out, add a splash of cream or pasta water when reheating
3. Is it safe to freeze this dish?
Yes, it freezes well. Store it in a freezer-safe container. Just be mindful that the cream may separate slightly upon reheating.
4. Can I substitute Greek yogurt for cream?
You can use Greek yogurt for a healthier version, but keep in mind that it may not yield the same rich creaminess.
5. What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
If you need a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
6. How can I adjust the spice level?
To tone down the spice, decrease the chipotle sauce. You can also serve with sour cream or avocado to sooth the heat.
Conclusion
In a world full of quick meals that lack flavor, this Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta stands out as a vibrant, satisfying option. It’s simple to prepare and can win over even the pickiest of eaters.
From the smoky chipotle to the creamy sauce, every bite is an explosion of flavor. So grab your ingredients and let’s fire up the skillet! You won’t regret it, and your taste buds will thank you.
Your kitchen is about to be your new favorite hangout—let the adventure begin!
