Name: Cheesy Chicken & Chorizo Pasta Recipe | Easy Dinner Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients: 200g pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite); 150g sliced chorizo; 450g chicken breasts; 1 large red onion, finely diced; 1 red pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 180g reduced fat cheddar cheese; 165g reduced-fat cream cheese; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for cooking (approximately 1-2 tbsp)

Jump to Recipe

Picture this: the warm, inviting aroma of smoky chorizo mingling with tender chicken cooking in a cozy skillet, the sizzle tempting your senses as vibrant red peppers soften to sweet perfection. The creamy, cheesy sauce clings to every twist of pasta, promising a comforting bite that melts effortlessly in your mouth. This is not just dinner—it’s an experience that feels like a warm hug after a long day. Ready in just 25 minutes, this Cheesy Chicken & Chorizo Pasta Recipe | Easy Dinner Recipe is the culinary embrace you’ve been craving, perfect for busy weeknights or any occasion that calls for a bit of indulgence with minimal fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Chicken & Chorizo Pasta Recipe | Easy Dinner Recipe

Quick and Easy: You’re diving into a delicious meal in just 25 minutes—perfect for when time is tight but cravings are high.
Simple Ingredients: No complicated hunting at specialty stores—just everyday pantry staples plus a few fresh finds.
Perfect for Weeknights: This recipe balances convenience with hearty satisfaction, making dinner feel special without extra stress.
Impressive Presentation: Those vibrant reds of the chorizo and pepper paired with cheesy, golden pasta make this dish a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Customizable: Easily tweaked to suit your preferences or what you have on hand—swap the pasta shape or spice levels to make it your own.

Why This Cheesy Chicken & Chorizo Pasta Recipe | Easy Dinner Recipe Works

This recipe dazzles because it masterfully balances bold flavors and creamy textures. The smoky depth of the chorizo infuses every bite with rich, savory notes, while the reduced-fat cream cheese provides a luscious, velvety sauce that coats the pasta beautifully without feeling heavy. Cooking the chicken separately and then combining it at the end locks in juiciness and tenderness. Plus, adding a splash of pasta water helps marry the sauce and pasta seamlessly, ensuring every morsel is perfectly coated and full of flavor. These thoughtful techniques create a dish that’s both satisfying and foolproof to make.

Large white rectangular baking dish filled with creamy baked macaroni and tender whole chicken wings evenly nestled throughout, generously coated in a rich cheese sauce and sprinkled with bright red paprika for a vibrant finish, the casserole presented as a whole uncut dish, captured in a professional 3/4 angle shot on a pristine white marble surface with natural lighting, styled as a mouthwatering hero food magazine shot, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

These straightforward ingredients come together to create a sensational meal. Each one plays a critical role in layering flavor and texture, proving that simple can be spectacular.

200g pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite): The sturdy pasta shapes hold the creamy sauce and chunks of chicken beautifully.
150g sliced chorizo: Adds a wonderfully smoky, spiced punch that elevates the dish’s character.
1 large red onion, finely diced: Provides sweetness and texture to balance the savory ingredients.
1 red pepper, diced: Brings a pop of color and subtle sweetness to every bite.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and depth.
180g reduced fat cheddar cheese: Melts into the pasta for that irresistible cheesy goodness.
450g chicken breasts: Tender protein base, seasoned and cooked to juicy perfection.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Enhances smokiness and adds subtle heat.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential to bring all flavors into harmony.
165g reduced-fat cream cheese: Creates a creamy, velvety sauce without the heaviness of full-fat alternatives.

Ingredient Substitutions & Tips

Chicken breasts: Use chicken thighs for a juicier, richer texture or turkey breast for a leaner option.
Chorizo: Choose a halal beef or chicken chorizo alternative to maintain the smoky, spiced flavor.
Reduced fat cheddar cheese: Swap for part-skim mozzarella or a mild gouda to change flavor profiles slightly.
Reduced-fat cream cheese: Greek yogurt or mascarpone can be used as creamy, tangy substitutes while keeping it light.

👨‍🍳 Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Tip 1: Don’t overcook the chicken—5 to 7 minutes per side keeps it juicy and tender.
Tip 2: Reserve some pasta water before draining; it’s magic for loosening the sauce to silkiness.
Tip 3: Use a heavy-bottomed skillet to cook the chorizo and vegetables evenly without burning.
Tip 4: Stir the cheese into the pasta off the heat to prevent it from becoming grainy.
Tip 5: Adjust seasoning at the end; some chorizos can be quite salty, so taste before adding extra salt.

How to Make Cheesy Chicken & Chorizo Pasta Recipe | Easy Dinner Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a vigorous boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook it until just al dente according to the package instructions—about 10 minutes should do. Once perfectly tender but with a slight bite, drain and set aside, reserving about 100ml of the pasta water. This golden elixir will come in handy shortly.

💡 Pro Tip: Add a splash of olive oil to the cooking water to help prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Pat your chicken breasts dry and season generously with salt, pepper, and that beautiful half teaspoon of smoked paprika. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Lay the chicken breasts in and cook them for 5 to 7 minutes on each side until they’re golden-brown and cooked through. Remove and let rest for a few minutes before slicing them into bite-sized pieces to keep the juices locked in.

💡 Pro Tip: Letting the chicken rest ensures it stays juicy when added back to the pasta.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables & Chorizo

Using the same skillet, toss in the diced red onion, red pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté gently for about 5 minutes until they soften and release their sweet, fragrant aromas. Then add the sliced chorizo, breaking it up with your spoon or spatula. Let it brown beautifully, crisping slightly so the smoky spices come alive in every bite.

💡 Pro Tip: Don’t rush here—slowly cooking the chorizo enhances its flavor intensity.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat and stir in the reduced-fat cream cheese, allowing it to melt smoothly into the chorizo and veggies. Gradually add your reserved pasta water, stirring continuously until the mixture transforms into a silky sauce that will cling beautifully to your pasta.

💡 Pro Tip: Use just enough pasta water to reach a luscious sauce consistency without making it runny.

Step 5: Combine Pasta, Cheese & Chicken

Return the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently with the sauce. Sprinkle the reduced-fat cheddar cheese over everything and stir until it’s melted and sumptuous. Finally, fold in those perfectly sliced chicken pieces, warming them through. Serve hot and watch this dish disappear fast!

💡 Pro Tip: Off the heat is best to melt the cheese gradually, preserving that creamy texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Learn from these common pitfalls:

Overcooking the chicken: Can dry it out and make it tough rather than juicy and tender.
Skipping the pasta water: Without it, the sauce might be too thick or not cling properly to the pasta.
Using too much salt: Chorizo is often salty, so add salt cautiously.
Rushing the chorizo step: Not browning the chorizo long enough results in less flavor depth.
Adding cheese at high heat: Can cause cheese to clump or separate, losing that smooth, creamy quality.
Not resting the chicken: Cutting chicken immediately after cooking can cause juices to escape, leaving it dry.

Delicious Variations to Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic Cheesy Chicken & Chorizo Pasta Recipe | Easy Dinner Recipe, you can get creative with these tasty twists:

Spicy Harissa Kick

Add a teaspoon of harissa paste when melting the cream cheese to introduce a smoky, fiery layer of flavor that wakes up the palate.

Herb Infused

Stir in fresh chopped cilantro or parsley at the end for a fresh herbal brightness that complements the richness.

Mushroom Medley

Add sautéed button or cremini mushrooms with the onions and peppers for an earthy, meaty texture.

Lemon Zest Brightness

Finish with a sprinkle of lemon zest and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to balance creamy richness with a subtle tang.

Vegetarian Swap

Replace chicken and chorizo with smoked tofu and roasted red peppers for a delightfully smoky, plant-based version.

How to Serve Cheesy Chicken & Chorizo Pasta Recipe | Easy Dinner Recipe

Single white plate featuring a generous portion of creamy macaroni and chicken casserole, close-up angled shot revealing tender, juicy chicken pieces nestled between perfectly cooked elbow macaroni coated in a rich, velvety cheese sauce, sprinkled with vibrant paprika that adds a pop of color and texture, subtle hints of diced ham visible throughout, steam gently rising from the dish, presented on a white marble surface under natural light, styled as an inviting individual serving from a food blog, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Top with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of green and herbal aroma. A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper and a sprinkle of extra cheddar can never go wrong.

Side Dishes

Serve with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or simple garlic sautéed greens like spinach or kale to provide a refreshing crunch alongside the creamy pasta.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive dinner, serve the pasta in shallow bowls layered with extra cheese and an herb sprig on top. Or, plate it family-style in a large serving dish to encourage hearty sharing and lively conversation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors intensify beautifully but avoid storing longer to keep the chicken tender.

Freezing

This dish freezes well! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Microwaving is convenient but stir halfway through to ensure even warmth.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne and rigatoni work best to hold the sauce, but fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti would be delicious too.

Is the chorizo spicy?

It depends on the brand. You can find mild versions if you prefer less heat or spicier ones if you love a kick.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Try using dairy-free cream cheese and cheese alternatives. The texture will be slightly different but still tasty.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and be white and opaque inside with no pink.

Can I prepare the ingredients ahead of time?

Yes! Dice the vegetables and slice the chicken earlier in the day to save time during cooking.

Is it better to add the cheese on or off the heat?

Adding cheese off the heat prevents it from clumping and ensures a smooth, creamy sauce.

Can I add extra vegetables?

Definitely! Mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach would all be wonderful additions.

How do I reduce the calories further?

Choose lower-fat dairy options and use chicken breast without skin. Limiting the amount of cheese also helps.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of turning simple, everyday ingredients into a dish that bursts with comfort, flavor, and a touch of elegance. This Cheesy Chicken & Chorizo Pasta Recipe | Easy Dinner Recipe delivers all that and more—rich, creamy, smoky, and irresistibly satisfying in every bite. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend treat, it’s a recipe that feels like home. I genuinely hope this becomes one of your go-to favorites in the kitchen.

Have you tried this Cheesy Chicken & Chorizo Pasta Recipe | Easy Dinner Recipe? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below. If you loved this recipe, please share it with friends and family. Happy cooking! 😊