This Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta is a bold and satisfying weeknight meal that combines tender chicken with a creamy, smoky chipotle sauce over perfectly cooked pasta.
Packed with lean protein from chicken and healthy fats from cream and olive oil, it offers a nutrient-rich, balanced option that’s both fiber-conscious and indulgent.
Quick to prepare, this dish is ideal for everyday dinners or meal prep, delivering flavor and convenience in one bowl.
Chicken Chipotle Pasta
Equipment
- 1 Large skillet or frying pan
- 1 Blender or Food Processor
- 1 Wooden spoon or spatula
- 1 Pot for Boiling Pasta
- 1 knife
- 1 cutting board
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1.1 lb fresh pasta spaghetti, fettuccine, or short pasta like rigatoni
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce adjust for spice preference
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 2 garlic cloves peeled
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- 1½ teaspoons chipotle powder or smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chipotle Cream Sauce: Begin by making the sauce, which is the heart of this dish. In a blender or food processor, combine the tomato sauce, heavy cream, chipotle peppers in adobo, and peeled garlic cloves. Pour in 1 cup of chicken stock to help the ingredients blend smoothly. Blend on high speed until you achieve a silky, smooth sauce with a rich, smoky aroma. Taste and adjust for heat if necessary, then set aside while you cook the chicken.
- Season the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a medium-sized bowl. Sprinkle them evenly with chipotle powder, ground cumin, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Gently toss the chicken to ensure that every piece is coated with the spices. This step infuses the chicken with deep smoky flavors that complement the sauce perfectly. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes while you heat the pan.
- Heat the Pan and Melt Butter: Select a large skillet or frying pan for cooking the chicken. Place it over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil along with 1 tablespoon of butter. Allow the butter to melt completely and the oil to shimmer slightly. This combination of butter and oil creates a flavorful, non-stick base for the chicken and helps it brown evenly.
- Sear the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the hot pan in a single layer. Avoid crowding the pan to ensure even browning. Cook for about 4–5 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown on all sides and cooked through. The chicken should feel firm to the touch and no longer be pink in the center. This step locks in moisture and builds the savory flavor that defines this dish.
- Incorporate the Chipotle Cream Sauce: Once the chicken is browned, reduce the heat slightly and pour the prepared chipotle cream sauce over the chicken in the pan. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to gently mix, ensuring every piece of chicken is coated in the luscious, smoky sauce. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 3–4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if desired.
- Cook the Pasta: While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your chosen fresh pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Fresh pasta cooks quickly, so keep a close eye to avoid overcooking. Once done, drain the pasta, reserving a small cup of pasta water in case the sauce needs loosening.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the chipotle cream sauce and chicken. Using tongs or a large spoon, gently toss the pasta until every strand or piece is evenly coated with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency. Make sure the pasta is heated through and well mixed with the smoky, creamy sauce.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer the pasta and chicken mixture onto serving plates or a large serving bowl. Finish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve immediately while hot, enjoying the creamy, smoky sauce and tender chicken with every bite.
- Optional Adjustments and Tips: For a milder version, reduce the number of chipotle peppers or skip the chipotle powder when seasoning the chicken. You can also swap fresh pasta for dried pasta if needed, though cooking times will vary. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Notes
- For even cooking, cut chicken into uniform 1-inch pieces.
- Rinse or drain canned chipotle peppers lightly if you want to reduce excess oil.
- Fresh pasta cooks faster than dried, so monitor closely to prevent overcooking.
- Adjust spice levels by reducing chipotle peppers or omitting the chipotle powder when seasoning the chicken.
- Reserve a small amount of pasta water to thin the sauce if it becomes too thick.
- Butter and olive oil combination helps prevent sticking while adding richness to the dish.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese just before serving to preserve freshness and flavor.
Chef’s Secrets: Tips For Ultimate Flavor
The secret to a deeply flavorful chipotle pasta lies in layering spices and sauce.
Toasting the chicken with olive oil and butter enhances its natural flavor while creating a golden sear.
Blending the sauce ensures a smooth, creamy texture, and simmering it briefly with the chicken allows the smoky chipotle and garlic to fully infuse.
Don’t rush the seasoning—taste and adjust before combining with pasta to create a balanced dish.
Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can also be stirred in for added vibrancy and aroma.
Serving Suggestions: Perfect Pairing Ideas
This smoky, creamy pasta pairs beautifully with crisp, fresh sides.
A light green salad with lime vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast, while roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus complement the rich sauce.
For bread lovers, warm garlic bread or a crusty baguette makes a satisfying accompaniment.
Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to enhance presentation and flavor.
This dish also works well as a meal prep option, keeping well in individual containers for quick lunches or dinners.
Storage Tips: Keep It Fresh Longer
Store leftover Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
When reheating, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency.
Freezing is possible, but the texture of fresh pasta may slightly soften; use frozen storage only if necessary.
Avoid microwaving directly without stirring, as uneven heating can separate the sauce.
Always store garnishes like parsley or cheese separately to maintain freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use dried pasta instead of fresh?
Yes! Dried pasta works well, but cooking times will differ. Follow package instructions and check frequently for al dente texture.
Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
2. How can I make this dish less spicy?
Reduce the number of chipotle peppers or skip the chipotle powder when seasoning the chicken.
Using only one pepper and tasting as you go ensures a milder, balanced heat.
3. Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or coconut cream.
Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor and texture, but the sauce will remain creamy and delicious.
4. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the chicken and sauce separately and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Cook pasta fresh before serving and combine with the warm sauce for best results.
5. What are good garnish or topping options?
Classic toppings include grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika.
You can also add crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat or a squeeze of lime for a bright, tangy finish.
