Creamy Chipotle Chicken Penne
If you’re craving a pasta dish that perfectly balances smoky heat with rich, velvety creaminess, Creamy Chipotle Chicken Penne is here to satisfy. This recipe brings together tender chicken breast, al dente penne pasta, and a luscious sauce infused with chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, creating a comfort meal that’s both bold and soothing. It’s a brilliant way to elevate your weeknight dinners without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the addition of cumin, garlic, and cheddar cheese adds layers of flavor that are sure to impress family and friends alike.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe shines because it combines simple ingredients with a technique that maximizes flavor and texture. The penne pasta acts as the perfect vessel for the creamy chipotle sauce, which is smoky, slightly spicy, and indulgently rich thanks to the heavy cream and sharp cheddar cheese. Cooking the chicken diced ensures quick cooking and even seasoning, while the sautéed onion and garlic build a flavorful base. The chipotle in adobo sauce brings a smoky depth and subtle heat that makes this dish stand out from everyday creamy pasta dishes.
The balance of creamy, spicy, and savory elements means each bite is satisfying and memorable. Plus, it’s incredibly adaptable—whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread to soak up every last bit of sauce.
Shopping List
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon chipotle in adobo sauce, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Cook’s Kit
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula for stirring
- Chef’s knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Colander or strainer for draining pasta
Creamy Chipotle Chicken Penne Made Stepwise
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add the diced chicken breast to the skillet. Season with cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly browned on the outside.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Chipotle Sauce
Stir in the minced chipotle in adobo sauce, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly, about 5 minutes. If the sauce becomes too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Combine
Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Add the cooked penne to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy chipotle sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve immediately for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Budget & Availability Swaps
- Chicken Breast: Substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier, more affordable option.
- Heavy Cream: Use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of cornstarch for a lighter sauce.
- Cheddar Cheese: Try Monterey Jack or a mild mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- Chipotle in Adobo: Use smoked paprika combined with a dash of cayenne pepper if chipotle is hard to find.
- Fresh Cilantro: Parsley can be used if cilantro isn’t preferred or available.
Pro Tips & Notes
- For extra smoky flavor, consider lightly charring the diced chicken in the skillet before adding the sauce.
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta—al dente texture holds up best when tossed in the sauce.
- If you want more heat, add an extra teaspoon of chipotle or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
- To keep the sauce silky, avoid boiling it vigorously once the cream is added; a gentle simmer is perfect.
- For a fresh burst of flavor, squeeze a little lime juice over the finished dish before serving.
Leftovers & Meal Prep
This dish reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prepping. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave to maintain creaminess.
You can also prepare the components separately—cook the chicken and sauce, and boil the pasta—then combine just before serving to keep the pasta from getting mushy.
Creamy Chipotle Chicken Penne Q&A
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding the creamy sauce, you can swap in rigatoni, fusilli, or even farfalle. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta shape’s package instructions.
Is this recipe spicy?
The chipotle in adobo adds a smoky heat that’s moderate and balanced by the cream and cheese. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the chipotle amount or omit it altogether. For extra spice, add more chipotle or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep the flavors rich and satisfying.
How can I store leftovers to maintain freshness?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or milk to restore the creamy texture. Avoid freezing if possible, as the cream sauce might separate upon thawing.
You Might Also Like
- Creamy Tomato Chicken Cavatappi – Another luscious chicken pasta recipe with a rich tomato cream sauce.
- Peach Poblano Chicken Quesadillas – A smoky, sweet twist on classic quesadillas with tender chicken and fresh peaches.
Before You Go
Don’t forget to save this recipe for Creamy Chipotle Chicken Penne next time you want a comforting, flavorful pasta dinner that’s quick and easy. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or prepping meals for the week, this dish delivers bold, satisfying flavors with minimal effort. And if you loved this recipe, be sure to check out the other dishes linked above for more delicious inspiration!
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Creamy Chipotle Chicken Penne
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the diced chicken breast to the skillet. Season with cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly browned on the outside.
- Stir in the minced chipotle in adobo sauce, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly, about 5 minutes. If the sauce becomes too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
- Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Add the cooked penne to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy chipotle sauce.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve immediately for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Notes
- Lightly char the diced chicken before adding the sauce for extra smoky flavor.
- Be careful not to overcook the pasta; al dente holds best when tossed in sauce.
- Adjust spiciness by adding more chipotle or crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
- Keep the sauce silky by simmering gently once cream is added.
- Squeeze lime juice over the finished dish for a fresh burst of flavor.
