Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta Recipe: Creamy Weeknight Favorite Dish

I made this spicy chicken chipotle pasta on a chilly weeknight, and let me tell you—it hit the spot like nothing else.

The smoky chipotle sauce, the tender chicken, and the mix of colorful veggies created a bold, comforting dish that made everyone at the table go back for seconds.

I couldn’t believe how easy it was to whip up something this flavorful at home. Honestly, I don’t think I’ll ever crave the restaurant version again. If you love spicy, creamy pasta, this is one you’ve got to try.

Ingredients

This flavorful dish is made with simple pantry ingredients and a few fresh add-ins that bring it all together.

12 oz penne pasta – Holds the sauce beautifully and cooks quickly.
1 lb chicken breast, diced – Use boneless, skinless chicken for fast cooking and juicy bites.
2 tbsp olive oil – Adds richness and helps brown the chicken.
1 small yellow onion, chopped – Gives the sauce a sweet and savory depth.
1 red bell pepper, sliced – Adds crunch, color, and mild sweetness.
1 cup asparagus, chopped – Fresh asparagus gives a nice bite and balances the creamy sauce.
1 cup frozen peas – Add them last to retain their vibrant color and soft texture.
2–3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped – These are the stars of the show; smoky, spicy, and bold.
1 tbsp adobo sauce (from the can) – Adds heat and enhances the depth of flavor.
2 garlic cloves, minced – Don’t skip this—it builds a strong savory base.
1 tbsp honey – Balances the spice with a touch of sweetness.
1 cup heavy cream – Makes the sauce rich, thick, and indulgent.
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Melts smoothly into the sauce and adds a salty, nutty kick.
Salt and black pepper to taste – Season to your preference throughout.
Fresh cilantro, chopped – Optional, but it adds a bright, herby finish.

Note: This recipe yields several servings—perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week.

Variations

Want to tweak it to match your taste or diet? Here are a few great options:

Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Less Spicy: Use only one chipotle pepper and skip the extra adobo sauce.
Vegetarian: Swap out chicken for mushrooms, tofu, or even roasted cauliflower.
Extra Creamy: Stir in 2 tbsp of cream cheese with the Parmesan for a richer sauce.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free penne or zucchini noodles as a substitute.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Equipment You Need

Large Skillet – For sautéing chicken, veggies, and simmering the sauce.
Medium Pot – To boil the pasta to al dente perfection.
Sharp Knife – To slice and dice all your fresh ingredients.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula – For stirring without damaging your pan.
Colander – To drain the cooked pasta.

How to Make Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta?

This recipe is easier than you’d think, and the results are absolutely crave-worthy.

Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a pot of salted water and cooking the penne pasta until al dente. This usually takes 8–10 minutes. Drain and set it aside once done. Don’t overcook—the pasta will absorb more flavor when tossed in the sauce later.

Sear the Chicken

Cut the chicken into small cubes and season with salt and pepper. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, transfer it to a plate and set aside.

Sauté the Veggies

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and asparagus. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until tender. Then add the peas and cook for 2 more minutes. The goal is to keep the veggies slightly crisp.

Add the Chipotle and Garlic

Chop 2–3 chipotle peppers and add them along with a spoonful of adobo sauce. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute. You’ll notice the smoky aroma immediately—it’s what makes this pasta unforgettable.

Build the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently. Add honey to balance out the heat from the peppers. Slowly mix in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely into a smooth, creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper.

Mix and Finish

Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Stir until everything is evenly coated in the sauce. Let it simmer on low for 3–4 minutes so all the flavors meld together. Finish it off with fresh cilantro and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan. Serve warm.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

After making this several times, here are my go-to tips for perfect results:

Don’t rinse the pasta—just drain it and toss it directly into the sauce for better flavor absorption.
Use freshly grated cheese. It melts better and creates a smoother sauce.
If your sauce gets too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Want more depth? Add a dash of smoked paprika or a squeeze of lime at the end.
If you’re meal-prepping, slightly undercook the veggies so they don’t turn mushy when reheated.

How to Serve Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta?

I love serving this in big, wide bowls so the sauce can pool beautifully around the pasta. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top adds brightness and color. For a complete meal, pair it with garlic bread or a crisp green salad. You can even drizzle a bit of extra adobo sauce over the top for a restaurant-style touch. A lime wedge on the side adds a fun, zesty twist.

Nutritional Information

This pasta packs in bold flavor and satisfying nutrients. Here’s a quick breakdown per serving:

Calories: 546
Protein: 24g
Carbohydrates: 49g
Fat: 29g

Make Ahead and Storage

Prep in Advance: You can dice the chicken, chop the veggies, and even boil the pasta a day ahead. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge.
Storing Leftovers: This pasta stays fresh for 3–4 days in the fridge. Keep it in an airtight container. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to bring back the sauce’s creamy texture.
Freezing: I don’t recommend freezing this dish, as the cream sauce may separate and change texture when thawed.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This spicy chicken chipotle pasta is a total crowd-pleaser. Here’s why it belongs on your weekly menu:

Incredible Flavor: The chipotle peppers create a smoky heat that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
Quick to Make: You’ll have dinner on the table in just 40 minutes—perfect for weeknights.
Customizable: Easily adjust spice levels, swap ingredients, or add extras to make it your own.
Balanced Meal: With protein, veggies, and carbs, it’s a satisfying all-in-one dish.
Meal-Prep Friendly: Leftovers taste just as good the next day and reheat well for quick lunches.

Ash Tyrrell