Let me tell you about my absolute favorite go-to dinner: One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta. Seriously, this dish is a lifesaver on busy weeknights! Imagine the cozy aroma of smoky chipotle wafting through your kitchen as you whip up this comforting meal—all in just one pot! It’s like a hug in a bowl, bursting with flavor and cheesy goodness that warms you from the inside out.

Every time I make this dish, I’m reminded of those evenings spent with friends, gathering around the table, sharing stories and laughter. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and that irresistible cheesy layer makes it a crowd-pleaser every time. Plus, there’s something so satisfying about knowing I can toss everything in one pot and let the magic happen. Trust me, once you’ve tried this One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta, it’ll become a staple in your home, just like it has in mine!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-pot wonder: Everything cooks together, which means less cleanup—my favorite part!
Smoky & cheesy goodness: The chipotle seasoning adds a smoky kick, while melted cheese brings it all together in creamy perfection.
Quick & easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into any busy schedule.
Customizable: Feel free to swap out proteins or pasta shapes based on what you have on hand!
Family-friendly: Kids love it, and it’s a great way to sneak in some protein and veggies.
Leftover delight: Enjoy it the next day! It tastes even better as the flavors meld together.

Ingredients for One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Gather these simple ingredients to make your delicious One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta. I promise, you’ll find it all easily at your local grocery store!

2 cups pasta (any shape you prefer, I love using penne or fusilli)
1 pound chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend works great)
1 tablespoon chipotle seasoning (adjust to your taste for more or less heat)
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients come together beautifully, creating a dish that’s not just easy but also packed with flavor. Make sure to have everything prepped and ready; it makes the cooking process so much smoother! Happy cooking!

How to Prepare One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Alright, let’s get cooking! Making this One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta is a breeze, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how quickly it all comes together. Just follow these simple steps, and soon you’ll be enjoying a delicious, hearty meal!

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

First things first, heat those two tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s nice and hot, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until the onion turns translucent and the garlic is fragrant. You want that wonderful aroma filling your kitchen—trust me, it’s the best start to any dish!

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Now it’s time to add the diced chicken into the pot. Spread it out evenly and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s beautifully browned on all sides. This step is crucial for flavor, so don’t rush it! You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is no longer pink and has a lovely golden color.

Step 3: Seasoning and Mixing

Next, sprinkle in that delicious chipotle seasoning along with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a good stir to ensure that the chicken is well-coated in those smoky flavors. If you like things spicy, feel free to add a bit more seasoning. Taste as you go; you want it to be just right!

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients

Now, let’s bring the magic together! Add the undrained diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and your chosen pasta into the pot. Stir everything well, and then crank up the heat to bring it to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to a simmer. This is when all the flavors meld together beautifully!

Step 5: Cooking the Pasta

Let it simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll want to check the pasta for doneness around the 12-minute mark. It should be tender but still have a bit of bite (al dente, if you will). If it seems too dry, don’t hesitate to add a splash more broth or water!

Step 6: Incorporate Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked to perfection, it’s time for the best part—cheese! Stir in that shredded cheese until it’s all melted and gooey. Ahh, the creamy goodness! Serve it hot and maybe sprinkle a little extra cheese on top if you’re feeling indulgent. Enjoy every cheesy, smoky bite!

Tips for Success

To make sure your One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly every time, here are some of my favorite tips! First, don’t be shy with the seasoning—taste as you go and adjust the chipotle seasoning according to your heat preference. If you want a milder dish, you can always reduce it or even swap it out for a milder spice blend.

When it comes to pasta, feel free to experiment! Different shapes can change the texture and experience of the dish. I’ve had great results with everything from rotini to farfalle. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as some pasta types may need a bit more or less time to cook. And remember, if things look a little dry while simmering, adding a splash of chicken broth or water can work wonders. Happy cooking, and enjoy your meal!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the nutrition for my One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta! Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so they’re not set in stone. Generally speaking, one serving contains approximately:

Calories: 550
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 60g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g
Protein: 35g

This dish packs a hearty punch, providing a good balance of protein from the chicken and carbs from the pasta, making it a filling meal. Just remember to adjust the seasonings and ingredients according to your dietary needs, and enjoy every flavorful bite!

FAQ About One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Got questions about my One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries you might have:

Can I use a different protein?
Absolutely! While I love using chicken, you can easily swap it for turkey, shrimp, or even a plant-based protein like tofu. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on what you choose.

What if I don’t have chipotle seasoning?
No problem at all! You can create a similar smoky flavor by using smoked paprika or a combination of regular chili powder with a pinch of cayenne for heat. Just keep tasting as you go!

Can I make this pasta ahead of time?
Yes! This dish holds up well in the fridge for a few days. Just reheat it on the stovetop with a little extra broth or water to bring back that creamy texture.

Is this dish gluten-free?
It can be! Just make sure to choose gluten-free pasta, and you’re good to go. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

How can I make it spicier?
If you’re a spice lover, feel free to add more chipotle seasoning or toss in some crushed red pepper flakes when cooking. You can adjust the heat to your liking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing leftovers of my One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta is super easy! Just transfer any uneaten portions into an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for up to three days, which is perfect for quick meals later in the week. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, and it should be good for up to two months.

When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, simply reheat on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it creamy and prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally until it’s heated through, and you’ll be back to enjoying that smoky, cheesy goodness in no time!

One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta: Cozy 30-Minute Meal

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Mexican
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

A simple and delicious one-pot dish featuring smoky chipotle flavors with cheesy chicken and pasta.

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft.
Add diced chicken and cook until browned.
Stir in chipotle seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and pasta.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
Cook until pasta is tender, about 15 minutes.
Stir in shredded cheese until melted.
Serve hot.

Notes

Adjust chipotle seasoning to taste.
Use any pasta shape you prefer.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3 days.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 550
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 60g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta

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