Creamy Chicken Chorizo Pasta – Spicy, Cheesy & Irresistible! 🍝🔥

Hi there, friend! Let me share one of my ultimate comfort food favorites with you—creamy chicken chorizo pasta. This dish has everything I love in a weeknight dinner: it’s quick, it’s hearty, and it’s absolutely bursting with flavor. The smoky, spicy chorizo pairs beautifully with tender chicken, while the creamy, cheesy sauce coats every strand of pasta in pure comfort. Honestly, it tastes like something you’d order at a cozy little bistro, but it’s so easy to whip up at home.

Why This Pasta is So Comforting (and Balanced)

Pasta always has a way of warming the soul, but when you add in protein from chicken and chorizo, you get a meal that’s hearty and satisfying. The cream adds indulgence, while the tomatoes bring freshness and acidity to balance everything out. And don’t forget the cheese—it ties the whole dish together into one irresistible, melty bite. This pasta is a true “hug in a bowl” kind of recipe, perfect for when you need something cozy but exciting.

Delicious Variations to Try

• Lighter Version: Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even evaporated milk for a lighter sauce.
• Veggie Boost: Add spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra color and nutrients.
• Cheese Options: Parmesan is classic, but mozzarella or even manchego give this pasta a different twist.
• Extra Heat: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you love spice.

The Recipe: Creamy Chicken Chorizo Pasta

Ingredients

• 12 ounces pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 6 ounces chorizo, sliced or crumbled
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (or a mix of Parmesan and mozzarella)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the cooking water, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add chorizo and cook for 3–4 minutes until it releases its flavorful oils. Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, and chili flakes. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Pour in the cream and stir until the sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened.
6. Add the chicken back to the skillet, then toss in the cooked pasta. Stir until everything is coated in the creamy sauce. If needed, add a splash of pasta water to loosen.
7. Remove from heat, stir in Parmesan cheese, and mix until melted and creamy.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot!

Tips for Success

• Use Good Chorizo: Spanish or Mexican chorizo both work, but they bring slightly different flavors. Choose your favorite!
• Balance the Cream: If the sauce feels too rich, add a splash of lemon juice or extra diced tomatoes for brightness.
• Make It Ahead: The sauce can be made a day in advance—just reheat and toss with fresh pasta.
• Serving Idea: Pair this dish with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken? Yes! Just dice it and stir it into the sauce toward the end to warm through.
2. What type of pasta works best? Short pasta like penne or rigatoni holds the sauce beautifully, but spaghetti or fettuccine work too.
3. How spicy is this dish? It depends on the chorizo you use. For a milder dish, pick a sweet chorizo and skip the chili flakes.
4. How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth.

Final Thoughts

This creamy chicken chorizo pasta is bold, cheesy, and just a little bit spicy—the kind of dish that makes dinner feel like a celebration. I love how it’s simple enough for a busy weeknight but impressive enough to serve when friends come over. If you give it a try, let me know how it turns out! And don’t forget to pin it on Pinterest so you’ll always have this irresistible pasta recipe handy when the craving hits. 🍝🔥