Description
If you’re craving bold flavor without a pile of dishes, this One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta is a must-try. Perfect for those quick dinner ideas or cozy comfort food nights, this easy recipe combines tender chicken, creamy cheddar cheese, and smoky chipotle peppers in one dreamy dish. It’s the ultimate food idea for a hearty weeknight meal, a quick dinner, or even meal prep. The balance of spice and creaminess makes this pasta both indulgent and unforgettable — one bite and you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
Instructions
- In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until soft and fragrant.
- Add cooked chicken and chopped chipotle peppers with adobo sauce. Stir to coat.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, then stir to combine.
- Add uncooked pasta. Stir, bring to a gentle simmer, and cover.
- Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
- Reduce heat to low. Add shredded cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
- Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, or extra adobo sauce as needed.
- Let sit for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly before serving.