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Creamy Spicy Chicken Pasta

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A quick and easy 30-minute creamy spicy chicken pasta recipe that delivers bold flavors and comforting heat, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium-sized boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb / 450g), cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
  • ½ cup (50g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup (120 ml) chicken broth
  • 8 oz (225g) penne or preferred pasta
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz (225g) penne and cook according to package instructions, usually 10-12 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup (120 ml) pasta water.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
  3. Lower heat to medium. In the same skillet, add minced garlic, 1 teaspoon red chili flakes, and 1 teaspoon smoked paprika. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring frequently.
  4. Pour in ½ cup (120 ml) chicken broth and 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. Add reserved pasta water if sauce is too thick.
  5. Lower heat and stir in ½ cup (50g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  6. Return cooked chicken to the skillet and mix with the sauce. Add drained pasta and toss gently to coat evenly.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and extra red chili flakes if desired.
  8. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top and serve immediately while hot.

Notes

Use Barilla pasta for best texture. For dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and Parmesan with nutritional yeast. Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Avoid burning garlic by stirring frequently and keeping heat moderate. Chicken thighs can be used but may require longer cooking time.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy spicy chicken pasta, easy chicken pasta, quick dinner, comfort food, spicy pasta recipe, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://blixfood.com/creamy-spicy-chicken-pasta-recipe-easy-30-minute-flavorful-comfort-meal/