Go Back
Creamy chicken pasta served in a bowl with herbs and grated cheese on top.

Creamy Spicy Chicken Pasta

A comforting and flavorful chicken pasta dish with a creamy sauce, perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces your favorite pasta (penne works wonderfully)
  • Salt (for boiling water)
For the Chicken
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust according to your spice preference)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Method
 

Cook the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water for later.
Prepare the Chicken
  1. While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil.
  3. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing.
Make the Creamy Sauce
  1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
  4. Stir in the heavy cream and red pepper flakes, allowing it to simmer for about 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Combine Everything
  1. Add the sliced chicken back to the skillet, followed by the cooked pasta.
  2. Mix everything together until well combined, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to reach the desired consistency.
  3. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Serve
  1. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm.

Notes

For more spice, adjust the amount of red pepper flakes or add some sliced jalapeños for an extra kick. Storage Tips: This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water or cream to loosen the sauce. Make it gluten-free: Use chickpea or quinoa pasta as a gluten-free alternative.