Description

This One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta brings together tender chunks of chicken, rich chipotle spice, and a creamy cheese sauce for the ultimate comfort meal. Cooked all in one pot for minimal cleanup, this dish balances smoky heat with velvety, cheesy goodness. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that feels indulgent but comes together quickly and easily.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat.
Add diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and half the paprika and cumin. Cook until browned and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic until soft.
Stir in chipotle pepper, adobo sauce, and remaining spices. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
Add uncooked pasta. Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer. Cover and cook 12–14 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir in cheddar and mozzarella until fully melted and creamy.
Return cooked chicken to the pot. Stir until everything is well coated and heated through.
Let rest 2–3 minutes before serving. Garnish with herbs if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Pasta