Creamy Poblano Chicken Penne

If you’re craving a dish that combines comfort, spice, and creamy indulgence, look no further than this Creamy Poblano Chicken Penne. This recipe brings together tender chicken, smoky roasted poblano peppers, and a rich, velvety sauce that clings perfectly to every bite of penne pasta. It’s the kind of meal that feels special enough for guests but simple enough for a weeknight dinner. Ready in under 40 minutes, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This Creamy Poblano Chicken Penne is a keeper for many reasons. First, the roasted poblanos add a unique smoky heat that elevates the dish beyond your typical creamy pasta. The combination of cumin and paprika spices introduces warmth without overwhelming the palate. Plus, the shredded cheddar cheese melts into the sauce, creating a luscious texture that coats every piece of penne beautifully. It’s also incredibly versatile — you can swap out the chicken for a vegetarian protein, or add extra veggies for more color and nutrition. Best of all, it’s a one-pot wonder, meaning minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

What You’ll Gather

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound chicken breast, diced
• 2 poblano peppers, roasted and chopped
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Equipment at a Glance

• Large pot – to cook the penne pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan – for cooking the chicken and sauce
• Blender or food processor (optional) – to puree the roasted poblanos for extra creaminess
• Knife and cutting board – to prep chicken, onion, and peppers
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring the sauce
• Colander – to drain pasta

Creamy Poblano Chicken Penne in Steps

Step 1: Roast and Prepare the Poblanos

Roast your poblano peppers over an open flame or under the broiler until the skin is charred and blistered. Place them in a sealed bowl or plastic bag to steam for about 10 minutes, which will help loosen the skin. Peel off the skin, remove the seeds, and chop the peppers finely. For an extra creamy texture, you can also puree them in a blender.

Step 2: Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast, season with salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the roasted poblano peppers, then pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Allow the sauce to simmer gently, thickening slightly, about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Combine and Melt Cheese

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Toss the Pasta

Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together so each piece of pasta is coated in the luscious creamy poblano chicken sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Plate your Creamy Poblano Chicken Penne and sprinkle with fresh cilantro leaves for a bright, herbal finish. Serve immediately and enjoy a comforting, flavorful meal.

Seasonal Flavor Boosts

• Add roasted corn kernels in late summer for a sweet crunch.
• Mix in sautéed mushrooms in the fall for an earthy depth.
• In winter, stir in chopped spinach or kale for added greenery and nutrients.
• Springtime? A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens the dish beautifully.

Chef’s Notes

• Roasting the poblanos is key to unlocking their smoky flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can substitute with canned roasted green chilies.
• For a lighter version, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a creamy coconut milk alternative.
• Use sharp cheddar for a more pronounced cheese flavor, or mix in Monterey Jack for a milder taste.
• Try this recipe with Chicken Parmesan Sliders if you’re in the mood for another chicken-based comfort dish.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

This Creamy Poblano Chicken Penne keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.

For longer storage, freeze the pasta in meal-sized portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as above. Avoid freezing with fresh cilantro garnish — add fresh cilantro after reheating for the best flavor.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne is perfect for holding the creamy sauce, other pasta shapes like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle work wonderfully as well.

How spicy is this dish?

The poblano peppers add a mild to medium smoky heat that is approachable for most palates. If you prefer more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño when sautéing the onions.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add extra veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You can also add plant-based protein alternatives to keep it hearty.

What can I serve alongside this pasta?

A fresh green salad or roasted vegetables complement the richness of this dish nicely. For more pasta inspiration, consider trying the Slow Cooker Cheesy Spaghetti And Meatballs or the Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Gnocchi Skillet for your next meal.

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Serve & Enjoy

Serve this Creamy Poblano Chicken Penne hot, straight from the skillet, with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro to brighten each bite. Pair it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, and a crisp side salad to balance the richness. It’s a perfect dish to impress family and friends or simply treat yourself to an elevated comfort meal. The creamy, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors come together in a way that’s both satisfying and memorable — a true testament to flavorful home cooking.

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