Spicy Chicken and Chorizo Pasta is a rich and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, smoky chorizo, and a spicy tomato-based sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe is ideal for those who enjoy bold flavors and a bit of heat in their meals. It is easy to make and perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Packed with bold, smoky, and spicy flavors.
Uses simple ingredients that are easy to find.
A great way to add variety to your pasta dishes.
Can be customized with different levels of spice to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breast, diced
Chorizo, sliced
Pasta of your choice (penne, fusilli, or rigatoni work well)
Olive oil
Onion, finely chopped
Garlic cloves, minced
Crushed tomatoes
Tomato paste
Chicken broth
Heavy cream
Red pepper flakes
Smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper
Parmesan cheese, grated
Fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, and cook until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
In the same pan, add sliced chorizo and cook until slightly crispy. Remove and set aside with the chicken.
Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan, sautéing until softened and fragrant.
Stir in the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.
Pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to create a smooth sauce.
Return the cooked chicken and chorizo to the pan, mixing them into the sauce. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing everything together until well coated.
Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Vegetable Addition: Add bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrients and texture.
Different Pasta: Try using whole wheat pasta, gluten-free pasta, or even spaghetti instead of traditional pasta.
Cheese Upgrade: Replace Parmesan with pecorino or a mix of mozzarella for extra creaminess.
Extra Heat: Increase the red pepper flakes or add chopped fresh chili peppers.
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free alternative.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze the pasta in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to maintain moisture. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

How spicy is this dish?

The level of spiciness depends on the amount of red pepper flakes and the type of chorizo used. Adjust accordingly to suit your preference.

Can I use pre-cooked chorizo?

Yes, but cooking raw chorizo adds extra depth of flavor. If using pre-cooked chorizo, slice it and add it near the end of cooking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat it before serving. It may taste even better as the flavors develop over time.

What type of chorizo is best for this recipe?

Spanish chorizo (cured) offers a smoky flavor, while Mexican chorizo (fresh) is spicier and needs to be fully cooked. Either works well depending on your preference.

Can I make this recipe without cream?

Yes, you can omit the cream or replace it with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream.

What is the best pasta shape for this dish?

Penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work best as they hold the sauce well.

Can I add more protein to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add shrimp, sausage, or even bacon for an extra protein boost.

What can I serve with this pasta?

A side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair well with this dish.

How can I make it less spicy?

Reduce or omit the red pepper flakes and use mild chorizo for a milder version.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it stores well and reheats easily, making it a great option for meal prep.

Conclusion

Spicy Chicken and Chorizo Pasta is a delicious and satisfying meal packed with bold flavors and a touch of heat. Its rich and creamy sauce, combined with smoky chorizo and tender chicken, makes it a go-to dish for pasta lovers. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress