Creamy Chipotle Chicken Pasta

If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances smoky heat and rich creaminess, look no further than this Creamy Chipotle Chicken Pasta. It’s a comforting, flavorful meal that comes together quickly, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or a special treat for any day of the week. The tender chicken, smoky chipotle sauce, and luscious cream blend beautifully with penne pasta, black beans, and corn to create a vibrant dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why Creamy Chipotle Chicken Pasta is Worth Your Time

This Creamy Chipotle Chicken Pasta recipe is a fantastic combination of convenience and bold flavors. It takes less than 40 minutes from start to finish but delivers a taste experience that feels like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen. The smoky chipotle sauce adds just the right amount of heat without overpowering the creaminess of the sauce. Plus, the addition of black beans and corn gives it a subtle sweetness and extra protein, making it a well-rounded meal.

One of the best parts? You only need one pan to cook the chicken and veggies, then toss everything with perfectly cooked penne pasta. It’s a streamlined process that keeps cleanup easy and your kitchen stress-free. If you love creamy pasta dishes but want something with a little kick, this recipe is your new go-to. And if you’re interested in trying more creamy chicken dishes, you’ll adore the Creamy Chicken And Gnocchi recipe for another comforting option.

Gather These Ingredients

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2-3 tbsp chipotle sauce (adjust based on heat preference)
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Tools of the Trade

• Large pot for boiling pasta – to cook the penne al dente.
• Large skillet or sauté pan – for cooking the chicken and sauce.
• Colander – to drain the pasta and rinse the black beans.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – perfect for stirring without scratching cookware.
• Measuring spoons and cups – to keep the seasoning and sauce balanced.
• Knife and cutting board – for dicing chicken, onion, and mincing garlic.

Step-by-Step: Creamy Chipotle Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 oz of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water for later.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breasts, seasoning with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of cumin. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Beans, Corn, and Sauce

Stir in the rinsed and drained black beans and corn. Pour in the 1 cup of heavy cream and 2-3 tablespoons of chipotle sauce, adjusting to your preferred spice level. Stir well to combine and let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Pasta

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat it in the creamy chipotle sauce. Add the drained penne pasta, tossing everything together. If the sauce feels too thick, slowly add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve warm and enjoy!

Dietary Swaps & Alternatives

• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier or gluten-free option.
• Swap heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free twist.
• Replace chicken breasts with diced turkey or tofu for a protein variation.
• Use fire-roasted corn for added smoky flavor.
• Adjust chipotle sauce quantity or substitute with smoked paprika for milder heat.

What Could Go Wrong

• Overcooked chicken: Dice the chicken evenly and cook just until no longer pink to keep it tender.
• Sauce too thick or thin: Use reserved pasta water gradually to thin out the sauce or simmer longer to thicken.
• Too spicy: Start with less chipotle sauce and add more gradually to suit your heat tolerance.
• Under-seasoned dish: Don’t forget to taste and adjust with salt, pepper, and cumin for balanced flavor.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

This Creamy Chipotle Chicken Pasta stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of cream or water to revive the sauce’s creaminess. For meal prep, portion into individual containers for grab-and-go lunches or easy dinners throughout the week.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne is perfect for holding the creamy sauce, feel free to swap in rigatoni, fusilli, or even farfalle. Just adjust cooking times based on the pasta you choose.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level depends on the amount of chipotle sauce you add. Starting with 2 tablespoons offers a pleasant smoky warmth, but you can increase to 3 tablespoons or more if you prefer a bolder kick. Remember, you can always add more but can’t take it out once mixed.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with your favorite plant-based protein like tofu, tempeh, or even extra beans. Just sauté them with the same spices and follow the recipe as usual.

Is it possible to freeze Creamy Chipotle Chicken Pasta?

Freezing creamy pasta dishes can sometimes affect the sauce’s texture. If you want to freeze it, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly on the stove with a bit of cream or milk to restore creaminess.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet – a vibrant, tomato-packed skillet meal perfect for busy nights.
• Creamy Chicken And Gnocchi – another rich and comforting creamy chicken recipe with pillowy gnocchi.
• Simply Yummy Bites Main Recipes – explore a collection of easy and delicious dishes to satisfy every craving.

Next Steps

Ready to add some smoky, creamy goodness to your dinner rotation? Gather your ingredients and whip up this Creamy Chipotle Chicken Pasta tonight. Once you’ve mastered this dish, consider exploring similar recipes like the Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet for a different flavor profile that’s just as satisfying. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and making dishes your own, so don’t hesitate to adjust the spice levels and ingredients to fit your taste buds. Happy cooking!

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