Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures:

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
Flavorful: The combination of Pepper Jack and Parmesan cheeses creates a rich, creamy sauce with a hint of spice.
Protein-Packed: Chicken breast and sausage provide a hearty dose of protein.
Customizable: Easily adjust the spice level and add vegetables to suit your taste.
One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup required, as everything cooks in a single skillet.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

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)

Directions

Brown the Chicken Sausage: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and sauté for about 5 minutes until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Chicken: In the same skillet, add diced chicken breasts, onion, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the onions are translucent.
Boil the Pasta: While the chicken is cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Simmer the Sauce: Return the browned sausage to the skillet. Add chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat.
Add Cheese and Combine: Stir in the shredded Pepper Jack and grated Parmesan cheeses until melted and the sauce is smooth. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly.
Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Extra Spicy: Use hot chicken sausage or add crushed red pepper flakes for additional heat.
Vegetable Add-ins: Incorporate spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
Cheese Substitutes: Replace Pepper Jack with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder taste.
Lightened Version: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream to reduce calories.
Pasta Alternatives: Swap rotini for fettuccine or bowtie noodles to change the dish’s texture.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce if necessary.

FAQs

Can I use another type of sausage?

Yes, turkey sausage or spicy Italian sausage can be used as alternatives.

Is Pepper Jack cheese too spicy?

Pepper Jack has a mild heat. For a more kid-friendly option, substitute it with Monterey Jack or mozzarella.

Can I freeze this creamy sausage and chicken pasta?

It’s not recommended to freeze creamy pasta dishes, as the texture may change upon reheating.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can enhance the flavor and nutritional value.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute rotini with penne, fettuccine, or any pasta shape you prefer.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or use hot sausage to add more heat.

Can I use a non-dairy substitute for heavy cream?

Coconut cream or cashew cream can be used as non-dairy alternatives to heavy cream.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components in advance and combine them just before serving.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Use plant-based sausage and substitute chicken with tofu or additional vegetables for a vegetarian version.

Conclusion

The Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta is a delightful blend of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors that come together in a quick and easy one-pan meal. Its versatility allows for numerous variations to suit your taste preferences, making it a perfect addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with different ingredients, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.