Description

Ready to level up your dinner game? This Spicy Cheesy Chicken & Sausage Pasta Skillet is a one-pan wonder bursting with bold flavors, creamy textures, and just the right amount of heat. It’s the ultimate comfort food — smoky sausage, tender chicken, pasta drenched in a creamy tomato sauce, and bubbly, golden mozzarella cheese. Whether you’re craving a quick dinner idea, a family-friendly easy recipe, or a satisfying weekend food idea, this dish delivers big time. Perfect for cozy nights in, meal prep, or when you need that cheesy, spicy kick to lift your spirits.

Ingredients

12 oz penne pasta (or any short pasta)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced

12 oz smoked sausage, sliced

1 small onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

1/2 cup chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
Add diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sauté for 4–5 minutes.
Add sausage slices and cook for another 3–4 minutes until browned. Remove meats and set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté diced onions until soft, about 3 minutes.
Stir in minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes for 30 seconds.
Add diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir well.
Pour in heavy cream and simmer for 5–6 minutes to thicken slightly.
Return chicken, sausage, and pasta to the skillet. Stir in Parmesan and half of the mozzarella.
Top with remaining mozzarella and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes until bubbly.
Let cool for a few minutes, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dinner