Save to Pinterest Creamy Chipotle Chicken Spaghetti is a bold, creamy comfort meal featuring tender shredded chicken in a smoky chipotle-cheddar cream sauce, tossed with spaghetti and finished with fresh cilantro. Spicy, cheesy, and totally satisfying.
I first made this riff on Tex-Mex creamy pasta when craving something different than usual tomato sauce. The smoky, spicy chipotle pairs perfectly with rich cheddar and tender chicken & every bite is pure comfort.
Ingredients
- Pasta & Chicken: 300 g (10 oz) spaghetti, 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached)
- Chipotle Cream Sauce: 1 tbsp butter, 2 cloves garlic minced, 200 ml (¾ cup) heavy cream, 100 ml (⅓ cup) milk, 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce finely chopped, 1 tbsp adobo sauce, 150 g (1½ cups) shredded cheddar cheese, salt and black pepper to taste
- Finish: 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro, lime wedges (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti:
- Boil in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce:
- In a large skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 1 minute. Add cream, milk, chipotle peppers, and adobo sauce. Simmer 2–3 minutes.
- Add cheese and chicken:
- Stir in cheddar until melted and smooth. Add shredded chicken and heat through.
- Combine with pasta:
- Toss cooked spaghetti into the sauce until fully coated. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve:
- Top with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges for extra zing.
Save to Pinterest This recipe became a weeknight staple after everyone asked for seconds at our family dinner. Even picky eaters loved the mild smokiness, and leftovers were fought over the next day.
Required Tools
Pot for pasta, large skillet, tongs or pasta fork
Allergen Information
Contains: gluten (spaghetti), dairy (cream, cheese)
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~590
Total Fat: 30 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Protein: 35 g (per serving)
Save to Pinterest This Creamy Chipotle Chicken Spaghetti is sure to spice up any dinner routine. Serve hot and finish with a squeeze of lime for the perfect zesty touch.
Recipe FAQs
- → How spicy is this dish?
The heat depends on chipotle quantity. Reduce for milder flavor or add more for extra kick.
- → Can different pasta be used?
Yes, penne or fusilli work well, soaking up the sauce and holding toppings beautifully.
- → What other protein options are there?
Turkey, rotisserie chicken, or leftover roast meats can be substituted as desired.
- → Is it possible to make it gluten-free?
Swap traditional spaghetti for a certified gluten-free alternative for a safe meal.
- → How can leftovers be stored?
Cool and refrigerate in an airtight container. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
- → What sides complement this dish?
Serve with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance rich flavors and textures.
- → How do I adjust for vegetarians?
Omit chicken and add black beans, spinach, or grilled vegetables for a hearty meatless option.