Go Back
Creamy Chipotle Chicken Pasta with penne, tender chicken chunks, diced tomatoes, green garnish, and a generous topping of shredded Parmesan cheese.

Chipotle Chicken Pasta

A smoky, spicy, and creamy chipotle chicken pasta packed with tender chicken, penne, and bold Southwestern flavors.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 5 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican-Inspired
Calories: 460
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Base
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce
  • 2 chipotle peppers in adobo, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp adobo sauce
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 14 oz diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp chili powder
Pasta & Finish
  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Pot

Method
 

  1. Cook penne pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through.
  3. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant.
  4. Stir in chopped chipotle peppers and adobo sauce, coating the chicken evenly.
  5. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Add diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, and chili powder.
  6. Simmer the sauce for 8–10 minutes until slightly thickened.
  7. Add cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese, tossing until well coated and creamy.
  8. Taste, adjust seasoning, and stir in fresh cilantro before serving.

Notes

For extra heat, add an additional chipotle pepper or a pinch of cayenne. Leftovers reheat well on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream.