Description
This Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta is a bold and flavorful dinner featuring tender chicken, smoky sausage, and a rich, spicy pepper jack cheese sauce. It’s an easy one-pan meal that’s creamy, comforting, and perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
8 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
1 lb chicken breast, diced
1/2 lb smoked sausage, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 1/2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Optional garnish:
Fresh parsley
Extra parmesan cheese
Instructions
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Season diced chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Cook chicken for 5–6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add sliced sausage and cook until browned.
6. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
7. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, then bring to a gentle simmer.
8. Stir in pepper jack cheese and parmesan until melted and smooth.
9. Add red pepper flakes if using.
10. Return cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet.
11. Toss everything together until well coated in the creamy sauce.
12. Garnish with parsley and extra parmesan, then serve warm.
Notes
Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother sauce.
Adjust spice level by adding more or less pepper jack or red pepper flakes.
Do not overcook chicken to keep it tender.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.