Introduction
There’s something magical about a creamy pasta dish that blends bold flavors and hearty ingredients into a satisfying meal. If you love creamy sauces, spicy chorizo, and tender chicken, this Creamy Chicken Chorizo Pasta will quickly become a staple in your home kitchen.
The inspiration behind this dish comes from the rich, smoky flavors of Spanish chorizo combined with the velvety smoothness of a Parmesan-infused cream sauce. It’s a dish that’s indulgent yet easy to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
In this blog post, we’ll go over everything you need to know about making this irresistible pasta, from ingredient selection to pro cooking tips, variations, and serving suggestions. So, let’s dive right in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with Flavor – The combination of spicy, smoky chorizo, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked chicken creates a mouthwatering taste explosion.
- Quick and Easy – This meal comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
- One-Pan Wonder – Apart from cooking the pasta, everything happens in one pan, meaning less cleanup.
- Customizable – You can switch up the protein, add extra veggies, or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Creamy Chicken Chorizo Pasta, you’ll need a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients:
For the Pasta
- 250g (9 oz) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine work best)
- Salted water (for boiling)
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 150g (5 oz) chorizo, sliced or diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnishing
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Step-By-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite). Before draining, reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water—this will help adjust the sauce consistency later. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chorizo
In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the sliced chorizo. Cook for about 3–4 minutes until it starts to release its flavorful oils and becomes slightly crispy. Remove the chorizo and set it aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Chicken
Using the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Season the diced chicken with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika before adding it to the pan. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pan (with all the delicious flavors left behind), add the onion and cook for 2 minutes until softened. Then, add the garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any bits stuck to the pan (this adds incredible depth of flavor). Let it simmer for 2 minutes, then stir in the heavy cream and cherry tomatoes. Simmer gently for another 3–4 minutes until the tomatoes soften slightly.
6. Combine Everything
Now, return the chorizo and chicken to the skillet. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and spinach (if using). If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
7. Toss with Pasta & Serve
Add the drained pasta and toss everything together until well coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
Pro Tips for the Best Pasta
- Use High-Quality Chorizo – Opt for Spanish chorizo (smoked and cured) for a rich, intense flavor. Mexican chorizo (raw and spicier) works too but will need extra cooking time.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Always cook pasta al dente, as it will continue absorbing the sauce once combined.
- Balance the Spice – Chorizo already has a kick, so adjust red pepper flakes to your preference.
- Reserve Pasta Water – Adding a bit to the sauce helps create the perfect creamy texture.
- Let the Sauce Simmer – Give it time to develop flavors before adding the pasta.
Variations & Substitutions
- Protein Swap: Try using shrimp, sausage, or even tofu instead of chicken.
- Veggie Boost: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- Make it Lighter: Use milk instead of heavy cream and reduce the Parmesan slightly.
- Extra Cheesy: Mix in mozzarella or cheddar for a gooier texture.
What to Serve With Creamy Chicken Chorizo Pasta
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Side Salad: A fresh green salad with balsamic dressing balances the richness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers pair well.
Wine Pairing Suggestions
If you want to elevate your meal, pair this pasta with a delicious wine:
- White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay cuts through the creaminess.
- Red Wine: A light-bodied Pinot Noir or Spanish Tempranillo complements the chorizo spice.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: The sauce may separate slightly when thawed, but you can freeze it for up to 2 months.
Q: Can I make it spicy?
A: Yes! Add extra red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño for a fiery kick.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Chorizo Pasta is a must-try for pasta lovers. With its rich, smoky, and creamy flavors, it’s a dish that will impress family and friends alike. Whether you’re making it for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s guaranteed to satisfy.
Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out in the comments below! 😊