Creamy Chicken and Pepper Pasta Delight
This Creamy Chicken and Pepper Pasta Delight combines succulent pieces of grilled chicken with a medley of vibrant bell peppers and spicy jalapenos, all enveloped in a rich and creamy Monterey Jack cheese sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish packs a flavorful punch while remaining comforting and satisfying. The balance of spices, combined with the luscious sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, makes this a family favorite that is sure to impress.
N/A
Servings
1
Calories
18
Ingredients
Ingredients
spaghetti or fettuccine
8 ounces (cooked according to package directions)
boneless chicken breasts
8 ounces (cut into 1 inch pieces)
flour
1 tablespoon (for coating chicken)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
ground red pepper
1/4-1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
white pepper
1/8-1/4 teaspoon (to taste)
ground black pepper
1/8-1/4 teaspoon (to taste)
cooking oil
1 tablespoon (for sautéing)
red bell pepper
1 cup (chopped)
onion
1/2 cup (chopped)
jalapeno pepper
1 tablespoon (seeded and minced)
garlic cloves
2 (minced)
flour
2 tablespoons (for sauce)
chicken broth
3/4 cup (to be used in sauce)
milk
1/2 cup (to be used in sauce)
Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon (to be added to sauce)
Monterey Jack cheese
1 cup (grated, to be added to sauce)
sour cream
1/4 cup (to be added to sauce)
Instructions
1
Cook the spaghetti or fettuccine according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and keep warm.
2
Cut the boneless chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces. In a small mixing bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of flour, salt, ground red pepper, white pepper, and black pepper. Toss the chicken pieces in the flour mixture to coat evenly, and set aside.
3
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the cooking oil. Add the chopped red bell pepper, onion, jalapeno pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, approximately 4-5 minutes, then remove them from the skillet using a slotted spoon and set aside in a separate bowl.
4
In the same skillet, add the coated chicken pieces. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 5 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink. Once done, transfer the chicken to the bowl with the sautéed vegetables.
5
In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of flour to the drippings. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk, followed by the Worcestershire sauce. Continue to cook and stir until the mixture thickens and becomes bubbly.
6
Lower the heat and stir in the grated Monterey Jack cheese, allowing it to melt smoothly into the sauce. Take 1 cup of the hot cheese mixture and gently stir it into the sour cream to temper it, then return this mixture to the skillet, along with the cooked chicken and sautéed vegetables. Stir until everything is well combined and heated through, ensuring you do not bring the mixture to a boil.
7
Serve by arranging the warm pasta on individual plates or a large serving platter, and lavishly spoon the creamy chicken and pepper mixture over the top.
Nutrition Information
1
Fat
1
Carbs
1
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Chicken and Pepper Pasta Delight?
It is a flavorful dish consisting of grilled chicken pieces and vibrant peppers in a rich Monterey Jack cheese sauce served over pasta.
What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?
The recipe recommends using eight ounces of either spaghetti or fettuccine.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be substituted for breasts, though cooking times may vary slightly.
How do I prepare the chicken for cooking?
Cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces and toss them in a mixture of flour, salt, red pepper, white pepper, and black pepper.
What peppers are required for this dish?
You will need one cup of chopped red bell pepper and one tablespoon of seeded and minced jalapeno pepper.
How spicy is this pasta dish?
The dish has a moderate heat level due to the jalapenos and the combination of red, white, and black peppers.
What kind of cheese is used in the sauce?
The recipe calls for one cup of grated Monterey Jack cheese.
How do I make the cheese sauce?
The sauce is made by creating a roux with flour and drippings, then whisking in chicken broth, milk, and Worcestershire sauce before melting in the cheese.
Can I substitute Monterey Jack cheese?
Yes, you can use Pepper Jack for more heat or a mild white cheddar as an alternative.
Why is the chicken coated in flour?
The flour coating helps the chicken brown and later acts as a thickening agent for the sauce.
What is the purpose of tempering the sour cream?
Tempering the sour cream with a bit of the hot sauce prevents it from curdling when added to the skillet.
Can I use a different type of milk?
Yes, you can use whole milk, 2 percent, or even heavy cream for a richer sauce.
Is there a substitute for Worcestershire sauce?
Soy sauce or balsamic vinegar can be used as a substitute if you do not have Worcestershire sauce.
How long should I sauté the vegetables?
Sauté the peppers, onion, and garlic for approximately 4-5 minutes until they are tender.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Certainly, vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or green peas would make great additions.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, it contains flour and wheat pasta. You would need to use gluten-free flour and gluten-free pasta to adapt it.
How should I store leftover pasta?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze Creamy Chicken and Pepper Pasta?
Freezing is not recommended as the cream-based sauce may separate or become grainy when thawed.
What are some recommended side dishes?
A light Caesar salad or steamed green beans pair beautifully with this rich pasta.
What is the best way to reheat this dish?
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken; just add it at the end to heat through with the sauce.
What if I don't have white pepper?
You can substitute white pepper with additional black pepper or a pinch of dry mustard.
Can I use heavy cream instead of milk?
Yes, using heavy cream will result in a much thicker and more decadent sauce.
How do I properly seed a jalapeno?
Cut the jalapeno in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scrape out the white membranes and seeds.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it is a great meal prep option as it stays flavorful when reheated for lunch.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Substitute the chicken with extra vegetables or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
What size should the chicken pieces be?
The recipe suggests cutting the chicken into 1-inch bite-sized pieces.
Should I boil the sauce after adding the sour cream?
No, you should only heat it through; boiling can cause the dairy components to separate.
Can I use green bell peppers instead of red?
Yes, green bell peppers work well, though they are slightly less sweet than red ones.
How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when it is no longer pink in the center and has reached an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.