Creamy Chicken Poblano Pasta

If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful dinner that’s both simple and impressive, look no further than this Creamy Chicken Poblano Pasta. This dish brings together tender chicken, smoky poblano peppers, and a luscious creamy sauce tossed with your favorite pasta. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that feels indulgent without requiring hours in the kitchen. Whether you prefer fettuccine or penne, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your pasta cravings with a subtle kick and rich cheesy finish.

Why This Creamy Chicken Poblano Pasta Stands Out

What makes this Creamy Chicken Poblano Pasta truly special is its balance of smoky, savory, and creamy elements. The poblano peppers add a mild heat and earthiness that elevates the dish beyond a typical creamy chicken pasta. Combined with aromatic cumin and paprika, the flavors develop a depth that’s both comforting and exciting. The shredded cheddar cheese melts perfectly into the sauce, creating a velvety texture that coats each strand of pasta beautifully.

This recipe is also incredibly versatile, allowing you to swap ingredients based on what you have on hand. It’s a one-pan wonder that comes together quickly, making it an excellent choice for busy evenings. Plus, the fresh cilantro garnish adds a bright pop of color and freshness that rounds out the dish perfectly.

Gather These Ingredients

• 8 oz. pasta (fettuccine or penne work best for holding the sauce)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
• 1 pound chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
• 1 medium onion, diced finely to add sweetness and texture
• 2 cloves garlic, minced for aromatic depth
• 2 poblano peppers, seeded and diced to bring smoky heat
• 1 cup heavy cream for richness and creaminess
• 1 cup chicken broth to create the sauce base and keep it light
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese for melty, cheesy goodness
• 1 teaspoon cumin to add warmth and earthiness
• 1 teaspoon paprika for a subtle smoky note
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish and a fresh finish

Must-Have Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta – ensures perfectly cooked fettuccine or penne
• Large skillet or sauté pan – for cooking chicken and building the sauce
• Knife and cutting board – for prep work on chicken, onion, garlic, and poblanos
• Measuring cups and spoons – to keep the seasoning balanced
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – for stirring without scratching your pan
• Colander – to drain pasta efficiently without losing any noodles

Creamy Chicken Poblano Pasta: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of 8 oz. pasta—whether fettuccine or penne—and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about half a cup of the pasta water for later use. Set pasta aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Then stir in the diced poblano peppers, cooking for another 5 minutes until they soften and release their smoky aroma.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat to medium and pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir in 1 teaspoon cumin and 1 teaspoon paprika, mixing well. Let the sauce simmer gently for 5 minutes to meld the flavors and thicken slightly.

Step 5: Combine and Melt

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts smoothly into the creamy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Toss with Pasta and Serve

Add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet, tossing to coat every piece in the luscious sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a bright, herbal finish. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Budget & Availability Swaps

• Chicken thighs can replace chicken breast for a juicier, more affordable option.
• Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream to lighten the sauce and reduce calories.
• For a dairy-free twist, substitute shredded cheddar with a plant-based cheese alternative.
• If poblano peppers are hard to find, substitute with mild green bell peppers or Anaheim peppers.
• Use vegetable broth as a substitute for chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.

Mistakes That Ruin Creamy Chicken Poblano Pasta

• Overcooking the chicken can lead to dry, tough bites—dice evenly and cook until just done.
• Not seeding poblano peppers properly can result in unexpected heat spikes.
• Skipping the reserved pasta water can make the sauce too thick and clumpy.
• Adding cheese too early over high heat might cause it to seize up instead of melting smoothly.
• Underseasoning makes the dish bland; always taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.

Best Ways to Store

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave to preserve creaminess. Avoid freezing as the cream sauce can separate upon thawing, affecting texture.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the components in advance and assemble just before serving. Cook the chicken, sauté the vegetables, and make the sauce, then refrigerate separately. Combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to eat for best results.

What pasta shape works best with this recipe?

Both fettuccine and penne are excellent choices. Fettuccine’s flat ribbons capture the creamy sauce well, while penne’s tubular shape holds bits of chicken and poblano peppers inside for a delightful bite. Choose based on your preference or pantry availability.

Can I add extra veggies to this Creamy Chicken Poblano Pasta?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, spinach, or corn complement the flavors nicely. Add extra vegetables during the sauté step to infuse them with the smoky, savory sauce.

How spicy is this dish?

The poblano peppers add a mild, smoky heat that’s generally very approachable. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or using a jalapeño pepper instead of one poblano. For a milder version, remove seeds thoroughly and reduce the amount of poblano.

Explore More

• For a zoodle alternative with bold flavors, try the 20 Minute Blackened Chicken Alfredo Zoodles.
• If you love the combination of poblano and chicken, you’ll enjoy the Peach Poblano Chicken Quesadillas for a fruity and spicy twist.
• Looking for another creamy pasta recipe? The Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta offers a zesty, fresh take on creamy chicken pasta dishes.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Poblano Pasta is a fantastic option when you want something cozy, flavorful, and straightforward. The smoky poblano peppers combined with the creamy cheddar sauce create a dish that feels both familiar and exciting. It’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests with minimal effort. Plus, the adaptability of the recipe means you can tailor it to fit your pantry and taste preferences easily. Whip it up tonight and enjoy the comforting flavors of this delectable pasta!

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