One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta

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Creamy, smoky, and full of bold flavor—this One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta is your new go-to for effortless comfort food. Loaded with tender chicken, perfectly cooked penne pasta, and an irresistible cheesy chipotle cream sauce, this dish hits every craving in one bite. The smoky heat from chipotle peppers blends beautifully with the rich creaminess of melted cheese, creating a luscious texture that clings to every piece of pasta.

Ideal for busy weeknights, this one-pot wonder is both satisfying and quick to make. It’s the kind of meal that fills the kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma and makes everyone gather around the table before it’s even served. Whether you’re after a cozy dinner idea, a quick comfort meal, or a new way to enjoy pasta night, this recipe delivers on all fronts.

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Ingredients for this One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon adobo sauce (from canned chipotle peppers)
• 2 chipotle peppers in adobo, minced
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 12 oz penne pasta (uncooked)
• 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (or cheddar)
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or cilantro

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Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Start by heating the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces, season them with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook for about 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned and nearly cooked through.

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Step 2: Add Chipotle Flavors

Stir in the minced chipotle peppers and adobo sauce. Let them sizzle for about 1 minute to bloom the flavors, coating the chicken in that smoky, spicy goodness. This step is key to building depth in the sauce.

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Step 3: Pour in the Liquids

Add the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine everything evenly. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

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Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Stir in the uncooked penne pasta. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 12–15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta will absorb the creamy, spicy broth and become incredibly flavorful.

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Step 5: Add the Cheese

Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the shredded Mexican blend cheese and parmesan. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce turns rich, thick, and luxuriously cheesy.

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Step 6: Serve It Up

Serve hot, straight from the pot, and garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro if desired. Enjoy the smoky, creamy, cheesy deliciousness in every bite!

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Storage Instructions

If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), this One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta stores wonderfully. Let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

• Refrigerator: Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to revive the creamy texture.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as above.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per Serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: ~580 kcal
• Protein: 33g
• Fat: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: ~620mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Short pasta like rotini, fusilli, or shells work great. Just adjust the cook time based on the pasta you choose.

2. Is this dish very spicy?

It has a mild to medium smoky heat from the chipotle peppers. For a spicier version, add an extra pepper or more adobo sauce.

3. Can I make it vegetarian?

Definitely! Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra flavor.

4. What cheese works best?

A Mexican blend melts beautifully, but cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella also pair well with the chipotle flavor.

5. Can I prep this ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the chicken and prep the chipotle mix in advance. Just add the pasta and liquids when you’re ready to cook.

6. How can I make it even creamier?

Add an extra splash of cream or a tablespoon of cream cheese during the cheese-melting step.

7. What’s the best way to reheat this dish?

Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

8. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Add shredded rotisserie chicken right before the cheese step to warm it through without overcooking.

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