I have to tell you, this Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Pasta Recipe has been a total game-changer for me! It all started when I needed something quick, satisfying, and packed with flavor for dinner after a long day. I whipped this up almost on a whim, and it became an instant family favorite.

The creaminess of the sauce, the smoky kick from the chorizo, and the tender, juicy chicken come together perfectly. If you’re craving comfort food that’s unbelievably easy to make, you’re going to want to try this one. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

How Long Will This Recipe Take?

Getting dinner on the table fast is always a win, right? Here’s the breakdown of how much time you’ll need:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Time-Saving Tips:

Chop all your ingredients (like the chicken and chorizo) before starting to cook.
Use pre-grated cheese and pre-sliced chorizo to save a lot of effort.
While the pasta is boiling, you can multitask by preparing your sauce.

Planning ahead a bit makes this dish super doable even on busy weeknights!

What You’ll Need in Your Kitchen?

Before getting started, gather all the tools you’ll need for this recipe. Having the right kitchen arsenal ensures smooth cooking.

Large Pot or Pan: For boiling your pasta.
Deep Skillet or Frying Pan: The key to cooking your chicken, chorizo, and sauce.
Sharp Knife: Perfect for chopping your ingredients with ease.
Cutting Board: Essential for preparing veggies and proteins.
Strainer: To drain your pasta efficiently.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring your sauce to creamy perfection.
Measuring Cups/Spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient measurement.

Tip: A heavy-bottomed skillet helps prevent the sauce from sticking or burning while cooking.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to create this creamy and delicious masterpiece:

300g pasta (penne, fusilli, or rigatoni)
2 chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
100g chorizo (sliced or diced)
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 garlic cloves (minced)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken stock
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper (to taste)

Garnishes (Optional):

Chopped parsley: For color and a touch of freshness.
Extra Parmesan cheese: Because you can never have enough cheese!

Ingredient Variations: Replace the cream with low-fat cooking cream for a lighter version. You can also substitute chicken breasts with boneless thighs for even juicier meat.

Step-By-Step Recipe Guide

Time to start cooking! Follow these easy steps to create your Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Pasta.

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 10 minutes. Drain the pasta, saving about ½ cup of the starchy water, and set aside. 💡 Stir occasionally while boiling to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Chorizo

Heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Add seasoned chicken (salt, pepper, paprika) and cook until golden and done, about 6–7 minutes. Push the chicken aside and add chorizo slices to the same skillet. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until crispy and fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat and add minced garlic, cooking for 1 minute. Pour in chicken stock and scrape up the browned bits. Stir in heavy cream and simmer for 4–5 minutes. Add grated Parmesan and chili flakes, letting the sauce thicken. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce. If it’s too thick, mix in a bit of the reserved pasta water. Sprinkle more Parmesan on top if you’d like. That’s it—dinner’s ready and delicious!

What to Serve with This Pasta?

Looking for ways to jazz up your meal? Try pairing it with these ideas:

Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery, and perfect for mopping up extra sauce.
Green Salad: A fresh, light side like arugula or spinach to balance the richness.
Roasted Veggies: Try roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus to add color and nutrients.
Wine Pairing: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or dry rosé complements the creaminess beautifully.

Pro Tips for Perfect Pasta

Want to take this recipe to the next level? Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

For More Flavor: Marinate the chicken with a pinch of paprika and pepper for 10 minutes before cooking.
Add Veggies: Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes into the sauce for added texture and goodness.
Herb Swap: If parsley isn’t your thing, try garnishing with fresh basil or thyme instead.
Make It Spicy: Increase the chili flakes or use spicy chorizo for a fiery punch.
Storage Tip: This dish keeps well! Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of water or cream if needed.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

Calories: 520
Protein: 28g
Fat: 25g
Carbs: 45g
Fiber: 3g

(Note that values may vary based on ingredient brands and serving sizes.)

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Got leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to handle them.

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months.
Reheating Tips: Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of cream or broth to thin out the sauce if needed.

Check out a step-by-step video on YouTube to follow along while you cook!