Creamy Poblano Chicken Pasta

If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances smoky heat with rich, velvety creaminess, look no further than Creamy Poblano Chicken Pasta. This vibrant recipe brings together tender chicken, roasted poblano peppers, and a luscious creamy sauce tossed with fettuccine pasta for a comforting meal that feels indulgent yet approachable. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

Reasons to Love Creamy Poblano Chicken Pasta

• Flavor Explosion: The smoky poblano pepper adds a subtle heat and depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy Parmesan sauce.
• Simple Ingredients: With pantry staples like garlic, onion, and chicken broth, plus fresh poblano peppers, this recipe is easy to pull together without extra fuss.
• Comfort Food with a Twist: Creamy pasta dishes are always a hit, but the addition of poblano peppers gives this one a unique, vibrant personality.
• Versatile & Customizable: You can easily swap out fettuccine for other pasta shapes or add extra veggies for a personalized touch.
• One-Pot Wonder: The sauce and chicken cook in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.

Ingredient Checklist

• 8 oz fettuccine pasta: The perfect pasta to soak up the creamy sauce.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and veggies.
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced: Tender protein for the dish.
• 1 large poblano pepper, diced: Adds smoky flavor and gentle heat.
• 1 medium onion, diced: Brings sweetness and depth.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Aromatic base for the sauce.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the rich, luscious sauce.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and flavor without heaviness.
• 1 teaspoon cumin: Enhances the smoky notes of the poblano pepper.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings for balance.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for savory, nutty goodness.
• Fresh cilantro for garnish: Adds a pop of color and freshness.

Prep & Cook Tools

• Large pot: To boil the fettuccine pasta.
• Large skillet or sauté pan: For cooking chicken, veggies, and making the sauce.
• Cutting board and knife: To dice the chicken, poblano pepper, and onion.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient portions.
• Colander: To drain the cooked pasta.

Creamy Poblano Chicken Pasta: How It’s Done

Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 oz fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water for later.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the diced poblano pepper and onion. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cumin, stirring for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in 1 cup chicken broth and 1 cup heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. Add the cooked fettuccine pasta and toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce needs loosening.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh cilantro over the top for a bright, herbal note. Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, smoky flavors of this delightful pasta dish.

Make It Your Way

• Swap fettuccine for penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti based on your preference.
• Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies and nutrition.
• Use Greek yogurt in place of heavy cream for a lighter sauce alternative.
• For a little extra heat, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes when adding the cumin and garlic.
• Try incorporating a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving to brighten the flavors.

Method to the Madness

This recipe is all about layering flavors thoughtfully. The initial searing of the chicken locks in juices and flavor, while cooking the poblano and onion together develops a smoky-sweet base. Garlic and cumin add warmth and complexity. The creamy sauce is tempered with chicken broth, preventing it from becoming too heavy, and Parmesan cheese adds that irresistible umami punch.

By reserving some pasta water, you can perfectly adjust the sauce’s consistency, ensuring every strand of fettuccine is coated in silky goodness. Garnishing with fresh cilantro lends a refreshing contrast that balances the richness beautifully.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

To save time during busy days, you can prepare parts of this dish in advance. Cook and dice the chicken up to two days ahead, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The poblano and onion can also be chopped and kept ready for use.

While it’s best to cook the pasta fresh, you can boil it a day ahead and toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and chicken in the skillet, then add the pasta and toss to combine.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I use a different type of pepper if I don’t have poblano?

Absolutely! Anaheim peppers or mild green bell peppers can substitute well if you want a similar flavor without too much heat. For more spice, jalapeños can be used but adjust the quantity to your heat preference.

Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese to maintain a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?

Definitely! Chicken thighs are juicier and add a richer flavor. Just make sure to dice them into uniform pieces and cook thoroughly before adding the sauce.

How spicy is this dish?

The poblano pepper provides a mild to medium heat with a smoky flavor, so the dish isn’t overly spicy. If you prefer more heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or an extra diced jalapeño.

More from the Kitchen

• Creamy Chicken Poblano Pasta – A close cousin with a slightly different twist that’s equally satisfying.
• Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta – Bright and zesty, perfect for a fresh take on creamy chicken pasta dishes.
• 20 Minute Blackened Chicken Alfredo Zoodles – A lighter, low-carb option featuring zoodles and bold blackened chicken flavors.

Hungry for More?

Once you’ve mastered this Creamy Poblano Chicken Pasta, explore other dinner ideas that bring bold flavors and comforting textures to your table. Whether you prefer hearty, rich sauces or lighter, zestier options, there’s a world of recipes waiting to inspire your next meal.

This dish perfectly marries the rustic charm of roasted peppers with indulgent creaminess, making it a standout choice for any pasta lover. Gather your ingredients and get ready to impress your family or guests with this easy-to-make, flavor-packed dinner.

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