Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta Recipe

This Spicy Chipotle Chicken Pasta recipe is a delightful fusion of creamy pasta and spicy chicken. The heat from the chipotle is perfectly balanced with the sweetness of honey. The crisp asparagus and bell peppers add a fresh bite, while the creamy parmesan cheese sauce binds all the flavors together, making each mouthful a delight.

Photos of Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta Recipe

This recipe makes use of chipotle pepper sauce, which might not be a standard staple in your kitchen. It can be found in the Latin section of most supermarkets. If unavailable, you can substitute it with any hot sauce of your preference, but remember, chipotle gives a distinctive smoky flavor that's hard to replicate.

Ingredients for Spicy Chipotle Chicken Pasta

Chicken breast: This is the main source of protein in this dish. It's lean, yet juicy and flavorful when cooked properly.

Penne pasta: Penne is a good pasta choice for this dish as its tube shape can hold up the sauce well.

Lemon juice: Adds a subtle tanginess to the chicken.

Butter: Gives a rich flavor to the sauce.

Olive oil: Used for sautéing the vegetables and chicken.

Honey: Balances the heat of the chipotle sauce with a sweet touch.

Chipotle pepper sauce: Gives a spicy smoky flavor.

Bell peppers: Adds a sweet crunch and color to the dish.

Onion: Provides a savory base for the sauce.

Garlic: Adds a punch of flavor.

Heavy cream: Creates a creamy, decadent sauce.

Frozen peas: Adds a pop of color and sweetness.

Asparagus: Gives a fresh crunch and earthy flavor.

Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor to the sauce.

Cilantro: Used for garnish, adds freshness and color.

Tortilla chip strips: Adds a fun crunch on top.

One reader, Fowler Viera says:

This spicy chipotle chicken pasta recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the chipotle sauce adds a delightful kick. The combination of tender chicken, crisp veggies, and creamy sauce is simply divine. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a little heat in their pasta dishes!

Fowler Viera

Techniques Required for Spicy Chipotle Chicken Pasta

How to prepare the chicken: Marinate the chicken with lemon juice, salt, and pepper for added flavor and tenderness.

How to shock the asparagus: Quickly cool the blanched asparagus by running it under cold water to stop the cooking process and retain its vibrant green color.

How to cook the pasta: Boil the penne pasta until it is just shy of al dente, then drain and reserve without rinsing to retain its texture and help the sauce adhere better.

How to brown the chicken: Cook the marinated chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat until it develops a golden-brown crust on both sides, enhancing its flavor and texture.

How to incorporate the sauce: Stir in the chipotle pepper sauce, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese gradually to ensure a smooth and creamy sauce without any lumps.

How To Make Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

Grab a bite of this chipotle pasta that’s inspired by The Cheesecake Factory! It’s spicy, well-seasoned, and perfect for your pasta cravings.

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 50 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2chicken breast,boneless skinless, cut into 1-inch chunks
1lbpenne pasta
2tbsplemon juice
½tspkosher salt
¼tspcoarse ground black pepper
2tbspbutter
2tbspolive oil
¼cuphoney
2tbspchipotle pepper sauce,from canned adobo peppers
1yellow bell pepper,chopped
1red bell pepper,chopped
½yellow onion,chopped
3garlic cloves,minced
2cupsheavy cream
1cupfrozen peas
1lbfresh asparagus,thin
6ozparmesan cheese,shredded
cilantro,for garnish, optional
tortilla chip strips,for garnish, optional

Instructions

Set the water to boil for the pasta.
Add the asparagus to the pasta water and boil for 2 to 3 minutes or until tender crisp.
Shock the asparagus by running them under cold water in a colander.
Add the pasta to a minute shy of the directions, then drain into the same bowl as the asparagus. Don’t rinse.
In a bowl, add the chicken, lemon juice, salt and pepper. Let sit.
In a large skillet, add the butter then melt over medium heat.
Add the bell peppers and onions, then cook until just translucent.
Add in the garlic and cook an extra 1 minute.
Remove the vegetables, then add in the olive oil.
Add the chicken to the pan, then turn the heat up to medum-high.
Brown the chicken on both sides.
Add in the honey and stir to cook for an additional 5 seconds.
Add the bell pepper mixture back to the pan.
Stir well, then add in the adobo sauce, heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, then add in the pasta, asparagus and frozen peas.
Stir to coat everything.
Serve with cilantro and tortilla chips strips, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 937.83kcal
Fat: 51.90g
Saturated Fat: 27.80g
Trans Fat: 0.22g
Monounsaturated Fat: 17.26g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.54g
Carbohydrates: 82.47g
Fiber: 6.12g
Sugar: 20.11g
Protein: 37.48g
Cholesterol: 175.26mg
Sodium: 773.28mg
Calcium: 448.60mg
Potassium: 741.97mg
Iron: 4.10mg
Vitamin A: 532.09µg
Vitamin C: 98.91mg

Essential Technique for Perfecting Spicy Chipotle Chicken Pasta

When browning the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This can cause the chicken to steam rather than brown, which can affect the overall flavor of the dish. If necessary, brown the chicken in batches to ensure each piece gets a nice, caramelized exterior. This will add a depth of flavor to your spicy chipotle chicken pasta.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop and marinate the chicken and vegetables the night before. This will save time and make the cooking process smoother.

One-pot wonder: Consider using a large skillet or pot to cook the entire dish in one go, reducing the number of dishes to clean up later.

Multitask: While the pasta is cooking, work on preparing the sauce and sautéing the chicken and vegetables simultaneously to expedite the cooking process.

Organized workspace: Before you start cooking, ensure all ingredients and utensils are readily accessible, making the cooking process more efficient.

Quick cleanup: Clean as you go to minimize the post-cooking cleanup time, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the stress of a messy kitchen.

Substitute Ingredients For Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta Recipe

Chicken breast - Substitute with turkey breast: Turkey breast can be used as a lean and flavorful alternative to chicken breast in this recipe, providing a similar texture and taste.
Penne pasta - Substitute with spaghetti: Spaghetti can be used as a substitute for penne pasta, offering a different shape and texture while still complementing the flavors of the dish.
Lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice can be used as a substitute for lemon juice, providing a slightly different citrus flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.
Kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt, providing a similar level of salinity to the dish.
Coarse ground black pepper - Substitute with crushed red pepper flakes: Crushed red pepper flakes can be used to add a spicy kick to the dish, similar to the coarse ground black pepper.
Butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee can be used as a substitute for butter, adding a rich and nutty flavor to the dish.
Olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil can be used as a substitute for olive oil, providing a mild and versatile oil for cooking.
Honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used as a substitute for honey, adding a hint of sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.
Chipotle pepper sauce - Substitute with sriracha: Sriracha can be used as a substitute for chipotle pepper sauce, providing a spicy and tangy flavor to the dish.
Yellow bell pepper - Substitute with orange bell pepper: Orange bell pepper can be used as a substitute for yellow bell pepper, offering a similar sweet and crisp texture.
Red bell pepper - Substitute with green bell pepper: Green bell pepper can be used as a substitute for red bell pepper, providing a slightly different color and flavor to the dish.
Yellow onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for yellow onion, adding a mild and sweet flavor to the dish.
Garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for garlic cloves, providing a convenient and consistent garlic flavor.
Heavy cream - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk can be used as a substitute for heavy cream, adding a creamy and slightly sweet flavor to the dish.
Frozen peas - Substitute with edamame: Edamame can be used as a substitute for frozen peas, offering a similar pop of green color and texture.
Asparagus - Substitute with broccolini: Broccolini can be used as a substitute for asparagus, providing a similar tender-crisp texture and mild flavor.
Parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano cheese: Pecorino Romano cheese can be used as a substitute for Parmesan cheese, offering a slightly sharper and saltier flavor.
Cilantro - Substitute with flat-leaf parsley: Flat-leaf parsley can be used as a substitute for cilantro, providing a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the dish.
Tortilla chip strips - Substitute with crispy fried onions: Crispy fried onions can be used as a substitute for tortilla chip strips, adding a crunchy and savory topping to the dish.

Presenting Spicy Chipotle Chicken Pasta

Elevate the plating: Carefully arrange the pasta and chicken on the plate, ensuring that each component is visible and appealing. Consider using a large, flat plate to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the dish.
Garnish with fresh cilantro: Sprinkle a few sprigs of fresh cilantro over the pasta to add a pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness to the dish.
Create a tortilla chip nest: Arrange the tortilla chip strips in a delicate nest shape on the side of the plate, adding a visually striking element to the presentation.
Incorporate asparagus spears: Place a few tender-crisp asparagus spears strategically on the plate to add height and elegance to the presentation.
Use a minimalist approach: Embrace a minimalist plating style, allowing the vibrant colors and textures of the dish to take center stage without overwhelming the visual presentation.
Consider the balance of colors: Aim for a balanced color palette on the plate, ensuring that the reds, greens, and creamy tones of the dish create an aesthetically pleasing composition.
Emphasize the contrast of textures: Highlight the contrast between the creamy pasta, tender chicken, and crunchy tortilla chip strips to create a visually and texturally dynamic presentation.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the precision of each element's placement on the plate, ensuring that the presentation reflects attention to detail and culinary finesse.
Highlight the star ingredients: Showcase the vibrant bell peppers and succulent chicken as the focal points of the presentation, drawing attention to the key components of the dish.
Embrace elegance: Strive for an elegant and refined presentation that reflects the sophistication and artistry of the dish, appealing to the discerning palates of culinary professionals.

Essential Tools for Making Spicy Chipotle Chicken Pasta

Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile kitchen knife used for chopping, slicing, and dicing.
Large skillet: A wide, flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and sautéing ingredients.
Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen tool with holes used to drain liquids from food.
Pasta pot: A large, deep pot used specifically for boiling pasta.
Tongs: A utensil with two arms and a pivot used for gripping and lifting items.
Grater: A kitchen tool used to grate foods into fine pieces.
Measuring cups and spoons: Tools used to measure precise amounts of ingredients for recipes.
Whisk: A utensil used for blending ingredients together and incorporating air into mixtures.
Spatula: A flat, flexible tool used for lifting, flipping, and spreading ingredients.
Garlic press: A tool used to crush and mince garlic cloves.
Zester: A tool used to remove the zest from citrus fruits.
Potato peeler: A tool used to remove the outer skin of potatoes and other vegetables.
Lemon squeezer: A tool used to extract juice from lemons and other citrus fruits.

Storing and Freezing Spicy Chipotle Chicken Pasta

Allow the spicy chipotle chicken pasta to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to freeze the pasta, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents, so you can easily identify it later.
When you're ready to enjoy the frozen pasta, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheat the thawed pasta in a microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through. You may need to add a splash of heavy cream or water to help loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out.
Note: The texture of the pasta, vegetables, and chicken may change slightly after freezing and reheating, but the flavors will still be delicious.
For best results, consume the frozen pasta within 2-3 months for optimal taste and texture.

How To Reheat Leftover Spicy Chipotle Chicken Pasta

Stovetop method: transfer the leftover spicy chipotle chicken pasta to a large skillet or saucepan. Add a splash of heavy cream or chicken broth to help loosen the sauce and prevent the pasta from drying out. Heat the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until it's heated through and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce becomes too thick, add more liquid as needed.
Microwave method: place the leftover spicy chipotle chicken pasta in a microwave-safe dish. Add a splash of heavy cream or chicken broth to help keep the pasta moist. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the pasta is heated through and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the sauce to separate or the chicken to become tough.
Oven method: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover spicy chipotle chicken pasta to an oven-safe dish. Add a splash of heavy cream or chicken broth to help keep the pasta moist. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is heated through and the sauce is bubbly. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown slightly, if desired.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to taste the spicy chipotle chicken pasta and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may find that the flavors have mellowed overnight, so you might want to add a pinch of salt, a squeeze of lemon juice, or an extra dash of chipotle pepper sauce to brighten up the dish. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit more heavy cream or chicken broth until you reach the desired consistency. Garnish with fresh cilantro and tortilla chip strips before serving to add a pop of color and a crunchy texture to the reheated dish.

Interesting Fact About Spicy Chipotle Chicken Pasta

The spicy chipotle chicken pasta recipe is a delicious fusion of flavors, combining the smoky heat of chipotle peppers with the creamy richness of heavy cream and parmesan cheese. This dish is a perfect balance of spicy and savory, creating a delightful culinary experience.

Is Making Spicy Chipotle Chicken Pasta at Home Cost-Effective?

This spicy chipotle chicken pasta recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of chicken breast, penne pasta, and asparagus can be budget-friendly, while the addition of bell peppers, parmesan cheese, and heavy cream may increase the overall cost. The versatility of the dish and the potential for leftovers contribute to its value. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25-$30. Overall Verdict: 8.

Is Spicy Chipotle Chicken Pasta Healthy or Unhealthy?

The spicy chipotle chicken pasta recipe, while flavorful, leans towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:

The recipe uses 2 cups of heavy cream, which is high in saturated fat and calories.
6 oz of Parmesan cheese adds additional saturated fat and sodium to the dish.
The inclusion of honey and tortilla chip strips contributes to added sugar and refined carbohydrates.
The recipe calls for 2 tbsp of butter and 2 tbsp of olive oil, increasing the overall fat content.

However, the recipe does include some healthy ingredients, such as:

Chicken breast, a lean protein source
Bell peppers, onion, and garlic, which provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
Asparagus and peas, offering additional fiber, vitamins, and minerals

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace the heavy cream with a lower-fat alternative, such as evaporated skim milk or Greek yogurt, to reduce saturated fat and calories
Reduce the amount of Parmesan cheese or opt for a lower-fat cheese to decrease saturated fat and sodium content
Omit the honey and tortilla chip strips to minimize added sugar and refined carbohydrates
Use less butter and olive oil, or replace them with cooking spray or vegetable broth to lower the overall fat content
Increase the proportion of vegetables in the dish, such as adding more bell peppers, asparagus, or other nutrient-dense options like spinach or cherry tomatoes
Opt for whole-grain pasta to increase fiber intake and provide a more balanced carbohydrate source
Adjust the amount of chipotle pepper sauce to control the level of spiciness and sodium

Editor's Opinion on Spicy Chipotle Chicken Pasta

This spicy chipotle chicken pasta recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The smoky chipotle sauce adds a spicy kick, balanced by the sweetness of honey and the richness of heavy cream. The addition of asparagus and peas brings a fresh and vibrant element to the dish, while the tortilla chip strips provide a satisfying crunch. The use of cilantro adds a pop of freshness and color. Overall, this recipe is a harmonious blend of spicy, savory, and sweet, making it a delicious and satisfying meal for any occasion.

Enhance Your Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread: Create a mouthwatering garlic bread with a twist by adding roasted garlic and parmesan cheese for an extra kick of flavor.

Grilled Vegetables: Whip up a colorful and vibrant grilled vegetable medley with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a refreshing and healthy side dish.

Fruit Salad: Prepare a refreshing fruit salad with a zesty citrus dressing to complement the spicy chipotle chicken pasta for a burst of sweetness and tanginess.

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent chocolate lava cake with a molten center that pairs perfectly with the spicy chipotle chicken pasta for a satisfying and indulgent dessert option.

Similar Recipes to Spicy Chipotle Chicken Pasta

Savory Beef Stew: This hearty beef stew is perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with tender beef, carrots, and potatoes, this savory dish is sure to warm you up.

Mango Salsa Chicken: Add a tropical twist to your chicken dinner with this flavorful mango salsa. The juicy mango, tangy lime, and spicy jalapeno create a perfect balance of sweet and heat.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Indulge in a comforting bowl of creamy tomato basil soup. The rich and velvety texture, combined with the aromatic basil, makes this soup a classic favorite.

Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake: Treat yourself to a decadent lemon blueberry cheesecake. The zesty lemon and sweet blueberries complement the creamy cheesecake for a delightful dessert.

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Elevate your side dish game with these garlic parmesan roasted Brussels sprouts. The crispy outer layer and savory garlic parmesan flavor make these Brussels sprouts irresistible.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Spicy Chipotle Chicken Pasta

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory stuffed mushrooms are the perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal. Filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs, they are sure to impress your guests.

Crispy Coconut Shrimp: Indulge in the crispy, golden goodness of these coconut shrimp. The crunchy coating pairs perfectly with the tender shrimp inside, making it a delightful appetizer to start off any gathering.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This decadent dessert is the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth after a delicious meal.

Berry Cheesecake: Treat yourself to a luscious berry cheesecake, featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and a creamy, tangy filling swirled with fresh berries. This elegant dessert is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving for more.

Why trust this Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors, combining succulent chicken breast with the smoky heat of chipotle pepper sauce and the richness of heavy cream. The addition of honey brings a touch of sweetness, while the vibrant colors and crunch of bell peppers and the earthy freshness of asparagus elevate the dish. The use of parmesan cheese adds a savory depth, and the garnish of cilantro and tortilla chip strips provides a satisfying finish. Trust in the balance of these ingredients to create a truly memorable spicy chipotle chicken pasta experience.

Share your thoughts on the Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use a different type of pasta for this recipe. Feel free to experiment with different shapes and sizes to find the one that you prefer.

Can I substitute the chipotle pepper sauce with something else?

If you don't have chipotle pepper sauce, you can substitute it with a combination of adobo sauce and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a similar smoky and spicy flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components of this recipe ahead of time, such as cooking the chicken and chopping the vegetables. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the components and assemble the dish.

Can I use frozen asparagus instead of fresh?

While fresh asparagus is ideal for this recipe, you can use frozen asparagus if that's what you have on hand. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I omit the heavy cream for a lighter version?

If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, although the sauce may not be as rich and creamy.