Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s:

Flavorful: The combination of chicken, sausage, and pepper jack cheese creates a rich and spicy flavor profile.
Comforting: The creamy sauce and hearty pasta make it a satisfying comfort food.
Versatile: I can easily add vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit my taste.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a go-to for busy evenings.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
1 lb chicken sausage, sliced
12 oz penne or rotini pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp chili powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)

Directions

Cook the Pasta: I bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Then, I drain and set it aside.
Sauté the Chicken and Sausage: In a large skillet, I heat olive oil over medium-high heat. I add the diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and chili powder, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. I remove the chicken and set it aside. In the same skillet, I add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 3 minutes. I remove the sausage and set it aside with the chicken.
Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, I add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. I add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Prepare the Sauce: I pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. I bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Combine Ingredients: I return the cooked chicken and sausage to the skillet, stirring to combine. I add the shredded pepper jack cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce is creamy.
Add the Pasta: I add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it evenly with the sauce. I adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: I garnish the dish with chopped parsley or cilantro and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if I desire extra heat. I serve it hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian: I omit the chicken and sausage and add a variety of vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach.
Different Proteins: I substitute the chicken and sausage with shrimp or tofu for a different flavor profile.
Cheese Options: I use Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese if I prefer a milder flavor.
Spice Level: I adjust the amount of chili powder and red pepper flakes to control the heat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: I reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. I stir until heated through.

FAQs

How can I make this dish less spicy?

I reduce or omit the chili powder and red pepper flakes and use a milder cheese like Monterey Jack instead of pepper jack.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, I can use any pasta shape I prefer, such as fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

I can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time, storing them separately. When ready to serve, I reheat the sauce, combine it with the pasta, and heat through.

Can I freeze this pasta dish?

While I can freeze it, the creamy sauce may separate upon reheating. If I choose to freeze it, I store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months and reheat it gently, stirring well to recombine the sauce.

What vegetables can I add to this dish?

I can add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. I sauté them with the onions and garlic before adding the liquids.

Conclusion

This Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta is a flavorful and comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to please. With its rich, spicy sauce and hearty ingredients, it’s a meal I turn to when I want something satisfying and delicious. Whether I stick to the original recipe or customize it with my favorite ingredients, it’s a versatile dish that never disappoints.

Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta

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Author: Mia
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

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Description

Satisfy your craving for heat and comfort with this irresistible creamy chicken sausage pasta, packed with smoky spices and melty pepper jack cheese.

Instructions

Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, drain, and set aside.

Cook Chicken & Sausage: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Cook chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili powder for 5–6 minutes until browned. Remove. Cook sausage for 3 minutes until browned. Remove.

Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, cook onion for 3 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and sauté 1 minute.

Make Sauce: Add chicken broth and heavy cream. Simmer gently.

Add Cheese & Meat: Return chicken and sausage to the skillet. Stir in pepper jack cheese until melted and creamy.

Combine Pasta: Add pasta to skillet and toss to coat with sauce. Adjust seasoning.

Serve: Garnish with parsley or cilantro and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

For less spice, use Monterey Jack cheese and omit red pepper flakes.

Add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for variation.

Prepare components ahead and combine before serving for easy meals.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner, Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex Inspired