Chili Lime Chicken with Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

This recipe for Chili Lime Chicken with Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is a delightful combination of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your family or guests. The zesty lime and chili flavors in the chicken pair perfectly with the rich, creamy garlic penne pasta, making it a meal that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something to serve at a gathering, this dish is sure to please. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe and how you can make it at home!

Why Chili Lime Chicken with Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is Worth Your Time

This dish is not only simple to prepare but also bursts with flavor. The marinade for the chicken tenderizes the meat while imparting a zesty and slightly sweet profile that balances beautifully with the creamy pasta. The addition of fresh herbs and tomatoes brings a refreshing touch that complements the richness of the creamy sauce. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal that minimizes cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. You can have a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen.

What to Buy

To create this delicious meal, here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken: 5-6 chicken tenders (or 2-3 chicken breasts)
• Marinade: 1/4 cup olive oil, 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice, 2 teaspoons chili powder, 2 teaspoons light brown sugar, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, pinch cayenne pepper
• Pasta: 16 ounces uncooked penne pasta
• For the Sauce: 4 tablespoons butter, 1/2 onion (chopped), 2 teaspoons garlic (minced), 2 heaping tablespoons all-purpose flour, 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth, 1 cup milk, salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, 4 ounces cream cheese (cubed)
• Garnish: 2 tomatoes (diced), 2 teaspoons fresh chopped parsley (minced), freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Toolbox for This Recipe

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the following tools:

• Mixing Bowls: For marinating the chicken and mixing the sauce.
• Whisk: To combine ingredients smoothly.
• Large Skillet: For cooking the chicken and making the sauce.
• Pot: To boil the penne pasta.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
• Knife and Cutting Board: To chop the onion, tomatoes, and parsley.

Stepwise Method: Chili Lime Chicken with Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Begin by preparing the marinade. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lime juice, chili powder, brown sugar, cumin, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Add the chicken tenders and coat them thoroughly in the marinade. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is marinating, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, add the marinated chicken tenders. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice char. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, whisking constantly to avoid lumps, and cook for 1-2 minutes.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Gradually pour in the chicken broth and milk, continuing to whisk until smooth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it thicken for about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the cream cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add the cooked penne pasta to the creamy sauce, stirring gently to coat the pasta evenly. Fold in the sliced chicken, diced tomatoes, and fresh parsley. Cook everything together for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Chili Lime Chicken with Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta warm, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy the rich and zesty flavors that make this dish truly unforgettable!

Substitutions by Diet

If you have specific dietary needs, here are some substitutions you can consider:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free penne pasta and ensure that the chicken broth is gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk.
• Low-Carb: Replace the penne pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lower-carb option.
• Spicy: If you prefer more heat, add additional cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the sauce.

Learn from These Mistakes

When making Chili Lime Chicken with Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta, consider the following common pitfalls:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Ensure that you do not overcook the chicken, as it can become dry. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Not Allowing Chicken to Marinate: If time allows, marinate the chicken for longer for enhanced flavor. Just 30 minutes can make a difference.
• Skipping the Pasta Water: Reserve a bit of the pasta cooking water before draining. Adding a splash can help loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
• Forgetting to Season: Always taste and adjust seasonings in the creamy sauce to your preference before mixing in the pasta.

Prep Ahead & Store

This dish can be prepped ahead, making it a great option for meal planning:

If you want to save time, marinate the chicken a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. You can also cook the pasta ahead of time and keep it in the fridge. The creamy sauce can be made and reheated when you are ready to serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore the sauce’s creaminess.

Troubleshooting Q&A

What if my sauce is too thick?

If your sauce has thickened too much, simply whisk in a bit of chicken broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To amp up the heat, add more cayenne pepper to the marinade or the creamy sauce. You can also include fresh jalapeños or hot sauce to the pasta before serving.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne works beautifully, feel free to substitute with your favorite pasta shape like fusilli, farfalle, or even whole wheat varieties.

What can I serve with this dish?

This Chili Lime Chicken with Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some roasted vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider serving with crusty bread for dipping in the extra sauce.

Quick Weeknight Wins

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also love these quick and delicious options:

• Creamy Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Bake
• Chipotle Lime Chicken Penne Bake

Next Steps

Now that you have the recipe for Chili Lime Chicken with Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta, it’s time to get cooking! Gather your ingredients, follow the step-by-step instructions, and enjoy a meal that’s bursting with flavor and satisfaction. This dish is a fantastic way to bring a taste of zest and creaminess to your dinner table. Happy cooking!