One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta

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This creamy, spicy, and savory One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta is everything you want in a comforting weeknight dinner. It’s packed with tender chicken pieces, perfectly cooked penne, and a bold chipotle-infused cheese sauce that brings a smoky kick to every bite. The rich creaminess of the sauce balances beautifully with the heat from the chipotle, making each forkful more irresistible than the last.

Made in just one pot, this dish is ideal for busy nights when you want something hearty without the mess of multiple pans. The combination of smoky chipotle peppers and velvety cheese coats every bite of pasta and chicken, giving it that perfect Tex-Mex twist. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this pasta will be a favorite go-to in your recipe collection.

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Ingredients for One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta

• 1 lb (450 g) penne pasta
• 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped (plus 1 tsp sauce)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Optional garnish: chopped cilantro or parsley

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Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, and half of the smoked paprika and cumin. Cook for about 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove it from the pan and set aside.

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Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for about 2–3 minutes until the onion softens and turns translucent. Stir in the chopped chipotle pepper and adobo sauce, along with the remaining paprika and cumin. Let this mixture cook for another 1–2 minutes to release its aroma.

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Step 3: Add Liquids and Pasta

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Once combined, add the uncooked penne pasta. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and let it cook for 12–14 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender.

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Step 4: Stir in the Cheese and Chicken

Once the pasta is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed, stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Mix until the cheeses are fully melted and create a creamy sauce. Return the cooked chicken to the pot and stir everything together until well combined and heated through.

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Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Turn off the heat and let the pasta rest for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley if desired. Serve warm, directly from the pot, and enjoy the smoky, cheesy, and slightly spicy flavors!

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Storage Instructions

To store leftovers of One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen up the sauce and maintain its creamy texture. Use a microwave or stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.

For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta for up to 2 months. Be aware that cream-based sauces may change texture slightly after freezing. To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop with added cream or milk.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per Serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: ~580
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Cholesterol: 120mg
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on exact ingredients and serving size.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute penne with rotini, rigatoni, or even macaroni. Just adjust the cooking time if needed.

2. What if I don’t like spicy food?

Reduce the amount of chipotle pepper or omit it entirely. You can use smoked paprika alone for a milder smoky flavor.

3. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely. Add it in Step 4 along with the cheese, just long enough to heat through.

4. Is there a dairy-free alternative?

You can use plant-based cream and cheese alternatives. Coconut cream works well, though it slightly alters the flavor.

5. Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes! Skip the chicken and use canned black beans, mushrooms, or roasted veggies instead.

6. How do I make it even cheesier?

Add more shredded cheese or mix in a small amount of cream cheese in Step 4.

7. What’s the best way to reheat it?

Use the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth, or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

8. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just ensure your pot is large enough to accommodate and adjust cooking time slightly for even heat distribution.

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