Why Make This Recipe

If you’re in search of a comforting dish that hits all the right notes, look no further than One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta. This dish combines the smokiness of chipotle peppers with creamy cheese and tender chicken, making it the perfect meal for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this pasta will quickly become a family favorite. Plus, the one-pot cooking method means fewer dishes to wash, allowing you to savor every delicious bite without the stress!

How to Make One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Creating this remarkable dish is both easy and rewarding. Here’s a step-by-step guide to whip up this delectable meal in no time.

Ingredients:

12 oz penne pasta (or other short pasta)
2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
3 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (finely chopped)
1 tbsp adobo sauce (from the chipotle can)
1 small onion, chopped (optional)
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 tbsp olive oil or butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until soft and fragrant.
Add the cooked chicken along with the chopped chipotle peppers and adobo sauce. Stir to coat everything evenly.
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then stir to combine the ingredients thoroughly.
Add the uncooked pasta. Stir to mix, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cover the pot.
Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Reduce the heat to low. Add the shredded cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
Taste the dish and adjust with salt, pepper, or additional adobo sauce as needed.
Let it sit for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly before serving.

How to Serve One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta

This scrumptious pasta dish can be served straight from the pot for a family-style dining experience. Garnish with extra cheddar cheese or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for added freshness. Pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread to round off your meal.

How to Store One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish stays good for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to help it regain its creamy texture.

Tips to Make One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta

For a spicier kick, adjust the number of chipotle peppers to your liking.
If you’re short on time, use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.
Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack, for varied flavors.
If you prefer a bit of crunch, consider topping the dish with crushed tortilla chips just before serving.

Variation

Feel free to customize this recipe! Add in your choice of vegetables, like bell peppers, spinach, or corn, during the cooking process for an extra nutritious boost. You can even make it vegetarian by swapping the chicken for black beans or chickpeas.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne pasta works wonderfully, you can substitute it with any short pasta, like fusilli or macaroni.

2. How do I adjust the heat level of this dish?
To make it milder, reduce the number of chipotle peppers or use milder varieties of peppers. You can also balance the spice with extra cream or cheese.

3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components in advance (like chopping onions or shredding chicken) to save time on the day you plan to make it.

Enjoy your cooking adventure with this rich and indulgent One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta!