One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving comfort food that truly delivers on bold flavor and easy cleanup, you are in for a treat with this One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta. This dish wraps up tender shredded chicken, al dente pasta, and a creamy, smoky chipotle cheese sauce in one big, irresistible pan. It’s a weeknight wonder that brings a touch of spice and tons of cozy vibes to your table—perfect for sharing with family or impressing guests with minimal fuss!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta lies in its simple, pantry-friendly ingredients—each chosen for a reason! Lean chicken and rich cheddar bring heft, chipotle infuses that signature smoky heat, and a splash of cream transforms it all into deliciously comforting goodness.

• Penne Pasta (12 oz): The ridges on penne grab onto that cheesy sauce—sub with rotini or rigatoni if you like!
• Cooked Chicken (2 cups, shredded or diced): Rotisserie chicken works perfectly for quick prep and juicy bites.
• Chicken Broth (3 cups): This forms the flavorful base, helping cook the pasta and create a savory sauce.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup): For ultra-creamy texture that feels utterly luxurious.
• Chipotle Peppers in Adobo (1–2, finely chopped): Add smoky, fiery depth—adjust the quantity to match your love for heat.
• Adobo Sauce (1 tbsp): Spoon straight from the chipotle can for even more smoky, spicy flavor.
• Onion (1 small, chopped, optional): Layers in subtle sweetness and texture for those who love extra veggies.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with classic aromatic depth.
• Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded): Melts into the sauce for gooey, irresistible creaminess.
• Olive Oil or Butter (1 tbsp): Just a touch to start sautéing and deepen flavor.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste): Season to perfection once everything comes together.

How to Make One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Start by heating olive oil or butter in your biggest, deepest skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion (if you’re using it) and minced garlic, then sauté until they’re softened and wonderfully fragrant—those savory smells that fill your kitchen set the stage for magic!

Step 2: Add Chicken and Chipotle

Toss in your cooked chicken along with the finely chopped chipotle peppers and that generous spoonful of adobo sauce. Stir everything together so every juicy piece of chicken is wrapped in smoky, spicy goodness. This is where that unmistakable signature flavor of One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta starts to come alive!

Step 3: Make It Creamy

Pour the chicken broth and heavy cream into the pot. Give it a stir so the spoon picks up hints of chipotle and mixes them straight into the creamy base. The combination of broth and cream promises a luscious, silky sauce in every bite.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add your uncooked pasta straight into the bubbling pot. Stir, bring everything to a gentle simmer, then cover. Let it cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, giving it a few stirs along the way so nothing sticks. You’ll see the pasta absorb all that flavor as the sauce thickens and the magic happens!

Step 5: Stir in the Cheese

Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, turn the heat down to low. Add all that glorious shredded cheddar cheese. Stir gently until you’ve got a rich, creamy sauce that coats every piece of pasta and chicken. Now you’ll really see One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta living up to its name!

Step 6: Perfect and Serve

Give your pasta a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or a little more adobo sauce if you’re in the mood for extra heat. Let the dish rest for a few minutes so the sauce thickens up just right—then get ready to serve up true comfort!

How to Serve One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh cilantro brings a burst of color and brightness, while extra cheddar or a dollop of sour cream cools down the smoky heat. Try a squeeze of lime, some sliced green onions, or chopped avocado for even more flair.

Side Dishes

You can’t go wrong with a simple green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, which balances the creaminess of the pasta. Warm garlic bread is always a hit for scooping up extra sauce. For veggie lovers, roasted bell peppers or blistered green beans add great crunch and freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta family-style in the pan for some Old World charm, or pile it high in colorful bowls and top with festive garnishes. For parties, spoon it into ramekins and top with extra cheese, then broil until bubbly for individual gratins everyone will remember.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta is just as crave-worthy! Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen and meld, making each bite just as special as the first.

Freezing

While pasta dishes with cream sauce can sometimes change texture after freezing, this one holds up surprisingly well. Cool the pasta completely, portion into airtight, freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

To bring your pasta back to its oozy, cheesy best, reheat it gently in a covered pan on low, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce. The microwave works too; use medium power and stir every minute so it heats evenly without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use uncooked chicken instead of cooked?

Absolutely! Cut the chicken into small cubes and sauté with the onion and garlic until fully cooked before adding the chipotle and liquids. This way, your One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta will still be delightfully tender and flavorful.

Is it possible to make this recipe less spicy?

Of course. Simply use a single chipotle pepper or omit the adobo sauce for a milder version. You can also balance out the heat with extra cream or add-ins like sweet corn.

What other cheese can I use if I don’t have cheddar?

Feel free to substitute with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, mozzarella, or a Mexican blend—choose your favorite melty cheese to keep things creamy and satisfying.

Can I make One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta gluten-free?

Definitely! Swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure your chicken broth and chipotle in adobo are certified gluten-free. Everything else can stay the same.

What if my sauce is too thick?

No worries—just splash in a bit of extra chicken broth or milk and stir until you reach your desired sauciness. Let it simmer for another minute so everything is perfectly combined.

Final Thoughts

If your heart beats faster for smoky, cheesy, one-dish meals, you owe it to yourself to try One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta soon. It’s cozy, a little bit spicy, and just outrageously satisfying. Gather your ingredients and let this dish bring a spark of excitement to your dinner table—you’ll be hooked at first bite!

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