Print

Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta is a rich, flavorful dish with tender chicken, savory chicken sausage, and rotini pasta, all coated in a creamy, peppery cheese sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

1 lb chicken sausage, sliced

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

12 oz rotini or penne pasta

2 cups chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

1½ cups shredded Pepper Jack cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tbsp olive oil

1 small onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and sauté for about 5 minutes until browned. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
  2. To the same skillet, add the diced chicken breasts, onion, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and the onions have softened.
  3. While the chicken cooks, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add rotini or penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  4. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet with the chicken. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat.
  5. Stir in the shredded Pepper Jack cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until evenly coated in the spicy cheese sauce.

Notes

  • Extra Spicy: Use hot chicken sausage or add crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
  • Veggie Twist: Add baby spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra veggies.
  • Cheese Substitutes: Swap out Pepper Jack for smoked gouda or sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.
  • Lighten It Up: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version of the sauce.
  • Pasta Alternatives: Fettuccine or bowtie noodles can be used instead of rotini for variety.
  • Can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated with extra cream or broth.
  • This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months—ensure it’s fully cooled before freezing.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyjanet.com/creamy-pepper-jack-chicken-sausage-pasta/