Creamy Spicy Chicken Pasta | Easy Pasta Recipe

This creamy, spicy chicken pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight dinner. The chipotle pepper puree adds a smoky kick to the rich cream sauce, while the seasoned chicken provides a hearty protein element.

Ingredients

For the Chipotle Pepper Puree:

• 4 oz low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb chicken breast
• 1/4 tsp salt-free lemon pepper
• 1/2 tsp granulated garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp granulated onion powder
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour (plus 1 tbsp reserved)
• 2 tbsp oil

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 16 oz heavy cream
• Smoked paprika (to taste)
• Cayenne pepper (optional, to taste)

For the Pasta:

• 9 oz fresh linguine or fettuccine pasta
• Salt (for pasta water)

Garnish:

• Dried parsley

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 servings

Step 1: Make the Chipotle Pepper Puree

Combine chicken broth and chipotle pepper in a blender or food processor.

Puree until smooth. Set aside.

Step 2: Season and Dredge the Chicken

In a bowl, combine lemon pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and 3 tablespoons of flour.

Reserve 1 tablespoon of the flour mixture.

Dredge the chicken breasts in the remaining flour mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the coated chicken breasts to the skillet.

Cook for 7-10 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Reduce heat to medium. Melt butter in the same skillet.

Add the reserved tablespoon of flour mixture to the skillet and cook for 30-45 seconds.

Add the chipotle pepper puree and stir.

Add 1 cup of chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits (fond) from the bottom of the pan.

Reduce heat to low. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce simmers, cook pasta according to package directions (2-3 minutes for fresh pasta) in salted boiling water.

Step 6: Combine and Finish the Dish

Add cooked pasta to the cream sauce, stirring to combine.

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.

Sprinkle with smoked paprika and cayenne pepper (if using).

Garnish with dried parsley. Serve immediately.