Welcome to the ultimate guide for crafting a truly unforgettable meal: Creamy Spicy Chicken Pasta. This dish effortlessly marries the perfect amount of heat with a luxurious, velvety sauce and succulent chicken, delivering a hearty and utterly satisfying culinary experience. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of vibrant flavors and comforting textures that will quickly become a cherished favorite in your kitchen. Imagine tender linguine coated in a rich, tomato-infused cream sauce, punctuated by the bold kick of sriracha and perfectly cooked chicken. This isn’t just spicy; it’s a symphony of savory, tangy, and creamy notes that dance on your palate.
The magic of this Creamy Spicy Chicken Pasta lies within its meticulously balanced sriracha cream sauce. This luscious concoction is what truly elevates the dish, making every forkful a moment to savor. For those who adore a touch of heat, this recipe is a dream come true – a match made in culinary heaven. However, its beauty also lies in its adaptability; whether you crave a gentle warmth or a fiery punch, the spice level is entirely within your control. This perfectly portioned meal offers a harmonious blend of carbohydrates and protein, making it a balanced option for any day of the week. Best of all, this delightful creation comes together in under 40 minutes, promising to satisfy your hunger and warm you from the inside out with its deeply flavorful profile.
If you find yourself captivated by the unique zing of sriracha, you might also enjoy exploring other exciting recipes like Spicy Salmon Eggrolls, Spicy Salmon Crispy Rice, or the ever-popular Honey Sriracha Baked Chicken Breast. Each offers a distinct way to embrace that beloved spicy-sweet flavor profile.
Why This Creamy Spicy Chicken Pasta Will Be Your New Go-To Recipe
This isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s an experience designed for convenience, flavor, and pure satisfaction. Here’s why you’ll be adding this sriracha cream sauce pasta to your regular meal rotation:
- Effortless & Speedy Preparation: Life is busy, and demanding recipes simply don’t fit every schedule. This creamy chicken pasta is designed for efficiency, coming together in less than 40 minutes. Using common pantry staples, it proves that exceptional flavor doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, making it ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
- Perfectly Spiced to Your Liking: Whether you’re a seasoned spice enthusiast or prefer just a hint of warmth, this recipe caters to every palate. The sriracha cream sauce provides a delightful, adjustable kick that complements the richness of the cream without overwhelming it. It’s a truly satisfying dish for anyone who enjoys a nuanced heat in their food.
- Endlessly Customizable: The versatility of this spicy chicken linguine is unmatched. Feel free to play with ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Swap out linguine for another pasta shape like penne or fettuccine, experiment with different chicken cuts, or even incorporate pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for an even faster meal. This adaptability ensures that the dish is always fresh and exciting.
- Wholesome and Comforting: Beyond its incredible taste, this pasta offers a fulfilling meal. The combination of protein-rich chicken and satisfying pasta, enveloped in a rich, warming sauce, provides deep comfort. It’s the kind of dish that nourishes both body and soul, making it perfect for a cozy evening at home.
Essential Ingredients for Your Spicy Chicken Pasta
Crafting the perfect Creamy Spicy Chicken Pasta starts with high-quality, flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the depth and richness of this exceptional dish. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why:
- Pasta: Opt for a long, sturdy pasta like linguine. Its flat, ribbon-like shape is ideal for clinging to the creamy, spicy sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Other options like fettuccine or spaghetti work wonderfully too.
- Chicken: Chicken tenderloins are recommended for their tenderness and quick cooking time. Alternatively, boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs can be used and cut into bite-sized pieces. Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut for an even quicker meal.
- Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil is essential for searing the chicken and sautéing the aromatics, providing a foundational layer of flavor. Any light, neutral-flavored oil can be substituted.
- Chicken Seasoning: A robust blend of garlic powder, onion powder, salt, smoked paprika, and black pepper will perfectly season the chicken, adding depth and a hint of smoky flavor that beautifully complements the spicy sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is key for enriching the sauce with its salty, umami notes. For garnishing, shaved Parmesan adds an elegant touch and a burst of flavor.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley is used both in the sauce and as a garnish, offering a vibrant, herbaceous counterpoint to the rich and spicy flavors.
- Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows for precise control over the overall saltiness of your dish, especially important when building complex flavors.
- Aromatics: Finely diced onion and minced garlic are the aromatic backbone of this sauce. They release incredible fragrance and flavor when sautéed, deepening the entire dish’s profile. Don’t skimp on these!
- Sundried Tomatoes: Choose oil-packed sundried tomatoes for their intense, concentrated sweetness and slight tang. Draining and julienning them ensures they integrate beautifully into the sauce, adding bursts of Mediterranean flavor.
- Tomato Paste: A concentrated burst of tomato flavor, tomato paste adds a vital depth and richness to the sauce. Squeeze tubes are convenient for using small amounts without wasting a whole can.
- Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth provides a savory liquid base for the sauce. You can also reserve some of your starchy pasta water to thin the sauce and add extra body.
- Heavy Cream: The cornerstone of the creamy texture, heavy cream delivers luxurious richness. While milk or half-and-half can be substituted in a pinch (perhaps with a bit more butter for richness), heavy cream provides the best consistency and flavor.
- Sriracha Sauce: The star of the spice element! Sriracha adds its signature fiery, garlicky, and slightly sweet kick. Remember, you have full control here – adjust the amount to achieve your desired level of heat.
- Additional Seasoning for the Sauce: A simple blend of black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt ensures the creamy sauce is perfectly seasoned and cohesive. Taste and adjust as you go!
How To Master Creamy Spicy Chicken Pasta: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating this delectable Creamy Spicy Chicken Pasta is a straightforward process that yields incredibly delicious results. Follow these simple steps for a perfect meal every time.
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling your chosen pasta (linguine is recommended) in generously salted water according to package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. This means it should be firm to the bite, as it will continue to cook slightly when added to the sauce. Drain the pasta, reserving about a cup of the starchy pasta water, then set it aside.
- Season and Cook the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine your chicken tenderloins with the chicken seasoning blend (garlic powder, onion powder, salt, smoked paprika, and black pepper), ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, shallow pan or skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken tenderloins and sear for approximately 5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan, transfer it to a plate, cover loosely with foil, and let it rest. Once slightly cooled, cube the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Using the same pan (don’t clean it, those flavorful fond bits are delicious!), melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the finely diced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent and softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and julienned sundried tomatoes, sautéing for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the aromatic foundation of your sauce.
- Prepare the Creamy Spicy Sauce: To the aromatics in the pan, add the sriracha sauce, tomato paste, and the sauce seasonings (black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt). Stir everything together well and sauté for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld and the tomato paste to deepen in color. Next, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring continuously.
- Combine Pasta and Chicken: Once the sauce has simmered for about 5 minutes, thickening slightly, add the cooked al dente pasta, the cubed cooked chicken, grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh chopped parsley to the pan. Mix everything together thoroughly, ensuring every strand of pasta and every piece of chicken is beautifully coated in the creamy, spicy sauce. Cover the pan and let it cook on low heat for an additional 3-4 minutes to allow the flavors to fully meld and the pasta to absorb some of the sauce. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the pan from the heat. Before serving, garnish generously with extra chopped fresh parsley and shaved Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting warmth and vibrant flavors of your homemade Creamy Spicy Chicken Pasta!
Expert Tips for the Perfect Spicy Chicken Linguine Pasta
Achieving restaurant-quality Creamy Spicy Chicken Pasta at home is easier than you think with these professional tips:
- Al Dente is Key: Always cook your pasta to a firm al dente. It will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the hot sauce, preventing it from becoming mushy.
- Prevent Sticking: If your pasta finishes cooking before the sauce is ready, simply drain it and toss it with a tiny drizzle of olive oil. This prevents the noodles from sticking together while they wait.
- Season Your Pasta Water: Don’t forget to generously salt your pasta water! It’s the first opportunity to season the pasta itself, adding a fundamental layer of flavor to the entire dish.
- Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is highly adaptable. Feel free to substitute traditional pasta with your favorite gluten-free alternative without compromising on flavor or texture.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always reserve a cup or two of the starchy pasta water before draining. This liquid gold is perfect for loosening the sauce if it becomes too thick and helps it cling beautifully to the pasta.
- Chicken Prep Flexibility: For maximum juiciness, cook the chicken tenderloins or breasts whole, then cube them just before adding them to the sauce. This helps retain their moisture.
- Utilize Leftovers: Have leftover cooked chicken or a rotisserie chicken? This recipe is an excellent way to put it to good use, significantly cutting down on cooking time.
- Control the Heat: Sriracha is the primary heat source. Start with the recommended amount and then taste. Add more in small increments until you reach your desired level of spice. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for extra intensity.
- Boost with Greens: For an added nutritional punch and a pop of color, toss in a handful or two of fresh spinach or baby kale during the last few minutes of simmering. It will wilt beautifully into the sauce.
- Fresh Herb Finish: Always finish your pasta with a generous sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or even basil. Not only does it add visual appeal, but it also brightens the flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Spicy Chicken Pasta
The term “spicy” can be subjective! This recipe provides a noticeable kick, but it’s designed to be adjustable. If you love heat, follow the recipe as written. If you’re cautious, start with half the sriracha, taste, and then add more if desired. For the true heat seekers, a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes can amplify the intensity.
While chicken is fantastic in this dish, it’s incredibly versatile. Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs work perfectly if you don’t have tenderloins. For alternative proteins, consider sliced smoked sausage, cooked shrimp (add at the very end to prevent overcooking), or even a plant-based option like sautéed mushrooms or white beans for a meatless version.
Sriracha offers a unique flavor profile, but if you don’t have it, several substitutes can work. Gochujang hot sauce provides a similar Korean-inspired heat. Otherwise, use your favorite hot sauce like Frank’s RedHot, Louisiana-style hot sauce, or peri-peri sauce, adjusting the quantity to match your desired spice level and flavor preference.
Leftover Creamy Spicy Chicken Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, transfer a portion to a microwave-safe dish and warm in the microwave. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen it before reheating.
Freezing this dish is generally not recommended. Cream-based sauces can sometimes separate or become grainy after freezing and thawing, and the pasta noodles tend to become mushy. It’s best enjoyed fresh or from the refrigerator within a few days.
This pasta is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette. To complement the rich sauce, you can’t go wrong with classic sides like Homemade Roasted Garlic Bread or Cheesy Cauliflower Bread Sticks to soak up every last drop of that delicious sauce.
More Delicious Creamy Pasta Recipes to Explore
If you’ve fallen in love with the richness of creamy pasta dishes, you’re in for a treat! Here are some other delightful recipes you might enjoy:
- Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta
- Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Creamy Tuna Pasta Bake
- Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta
- Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta
We sincerely hope you cherish every recipe we share, especially this vibrant and incredibly satisfying Creamy Spicy Chicken Pasta. We encourage you to try it, savor every bite, and share your experience with friends and family. Your feedback is invaluable, so please don’t hesitate to leave a star rating and comment below if you’ve tried and loved this recipe. Share your delicious creations on Instagram using our hashtag so we can see your culinary masterpieces!
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Creamy Spicy Chicken Pasta
Mariam Ezzeddine
Creamy spicy chicken pasta has just the right amount of heat combined with a creamy sauce and tender chicken for a hearty and satisfying meal. The spicy pasta sauce’s complex flavors are a luscious, tomato-y and full-flavored addition to spicy chicken linguine.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz. linguine pasta
- 1½ lb. chicken tenderloins
- 1 tbsp. olive oil
- Shaved parmesan cheese, for garnishing
- Chopped parsley, for garnishing
Chicken Seasoning
- ¾ tsp garlic powder
- ¾ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
Creamy Spicy Sauce
- 1 tbsp. butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced (about 1 cup)
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup sundried tomatoes, in oil, drained, julienned
- ¼ cup tomato paste
- ⅔ cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1½ cup chicken broth, low sodium
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup sriracha sauce
- ¾ tsp black pepper, more or less to taste
- 1 tsp. onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ¾ tsp salt
- ¼ cup fresh chopped parsley
Instructions
- Cook pasta al dente according to package instructions.
- In a bowl, season the chicken with the chicken seasoning blend.
- In a large shallow pan, heat 1 tbsp. of olive oil over medium heat. Pan sear the chicken tenderloins on each side for 5 minutes, or until fully cooked. Transfer to a plate, cover with foil wrap, and cube when it cools down.
- In the same pan, melt the butter. Pan-sear the diced onions and cook until translucent. Add in the minced garlic and sundried tomatoes and sauté for another minute.
- Add in the sriracha sauce, tomato paste, and the sauce spices (black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, salt) and combine everything together. Sauté for another minute, then add in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Mix well and cover to simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Once the sauce has simmered, add in the cooked pasta, cubed chicken, grated parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley.
- Mix everything together very well to coat the pasta and chicken. Cover and cook on low heat again for 3-4 more minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Remove from heat, garnish with some extra chopped parsley and shaved parmesan cheese, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Cook the pasta to al dente as it will continue to cook slightly when added to the sauce.
- If the pasta is done before the sauce, drain it and toss with a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
- Season the pasta water generously with salt.
- Substitute gluten-free pasta if desired.
- Reserve some of the pasta water to loosen the sauce if necessary.
- Cook the chicken tenders whole and chop them into chunks just before serving for optimal juiciness.
- Use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken if preferred to save time.
- Adjust the amount of sriracha to control the spiciness of the dish.
- Toss in a handful or two of fresh spinach to wilt into the sauce for added greens.
- Top with fresh herbs before serving for brightness.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 63 g |
Protein: 54 g |
Fat: 38 g |
Saturated Fat: 20 g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3 g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 12 g |
Trans Fat: 0.1 g |
Cholesterol: 199 mg |
Sodium: 1772 mg |
Potassium: 1685 mg |
Fiber: 5 g |
Sugar: 12 g |
Vitamin A: 2079 IU |
Vitamin C: 31 mg |
Calcium: 300 mg |
Iron: 4 mg