Creamy Chicken Chorizo Pasta is everything weeknight comfort food should be: rich, bold, lusciously creamy, and impossibly satisfying with every bite. Succulent chicken mingles with spicy, smoky chorizo, all enveloped in a silky parmesan and cream sauce that hugs each swirl of pasta. Fresh spinach brings a pop of color and freshness, and a little heat teases the palate without overpowering. This is a recipe you’ll keep coming back to, whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself after a long day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creamy Chicken Chorizo Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, quality ingredients is the secret behind the magic of Creamy Chicken Chorizo Pasta. Each item brings its own flair—whether it’s the robust flavor of chorizo or the creamy decadence of parmesan—so don’t skip on freshness or boldness here.

Pasta (8 oz / 225g): Choose penne, fusilli, or any favorite shape—the sturdy noodles hold the creamy sauce perfectly.
Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Helps sauté and deepen the flavors while keeping everything luscious, not greasy.
Chorizo Sausage (6 oz / 170g): Adds smoky, spicy bites that take this dish from basic to extraordinary.
Chicken Breasts (2, diced): Tender, juicy chunks that make the pasta hearty and protein-packed.
Onion (1 medium): Lends subtle sweetness and a savory foundation to the sauce.
Garlic (2 cloves): A hint of aromatic warmth that plays beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Tomato Paste / Puree (2 tablespoons): Brings depth and a gentle tang, tying together the smoky and creamy notes.
Paprika (1 teaspoon): Enhances the chorizo’s smokiness with a gentle earthiness and color.
Chili Flakes (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a gentle tickle of heat—feel free to adjust to your spice preference.
Dried Oregano (1 teaspoon): A sprinkle of aromatic Italian flavor to round things out.
Salt and Pepper: To balance and sharpen all those bright, bold flavors.
Fresh Spinach Leaves (2 cups / 60g): Bring freshness and vibrant green color to every forkful.
Heavy Cream (1 cup / 240ml): The magic touch for that rich, dreamy sauce.
Parmesan Cheese, grated (1/2 cup / 45g): Salty, nutty, and perfectly melty for finishing the sauce.
Fresh Parsley, chopped: For garnish, adding a burst of freshness and visual flair.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Chorizo Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until just al dente. Drain it once it’s tender but still slightly firm to the bite, saving about half a cup of the starchy pasta water. This step is the backbone of Creamy Chicken Chorizo Pasta—the perfect base for all the saucy goodness that comes next.

Step 2: Sizzle the Chorizo

In a large skillet, heat a swirl of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chorizo and let it sizzle and brown for 3 to 4 minutes. This is where that signature smoky aroma begins; render the fat to flavor your sauce and those irresistible crispy edges set the tone for the whole dish.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Toss in the chicken breast pieces with the chorizo, turning them until they are just sealed—about 2 to 3 minutes. You want them just cooked on the outside but still juicy inside, since they’ll continue cooking in the sauce.

Step 4: Build the Aromatic Base

Sprinkle in your chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them right alongside the meats. As they soften, your kitchen will fill with the unmistakable, mouthwatering aroma that signals Creamy Chicken Chorizo Pasta is well underway.

Step 5: Layer on the Spices and Tomato

Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, chili flakes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook everything until fully blended and the tomato paste darkens slightly—a sign the flavors are concentrated and ready for the big finish.

Step 6: Add Spinach

Toss in the fresh spinach leaves and stir until just wilted. This only takes a couple of minutes but delivers visual vibrance and added nutrients, making Creamy Chicken Chorizo Pasta feel indulgent yet wholesome.

Step 7: Creamy Sauce Time

Pour in about a quarter cup of reserved pasta water, followed by the heavy cream and parmesan cheese. Stir gently and let the sauce bubble lightly so the cheese melts smoothly and the sauce thickens into its signature velvety consistency.

Step 8: Combine and Finish

Add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet and toss everything together. The sauce should generously coat every noodle—add a splash more pasta water if needed for silkiness. Taste for seasoning and adjust as you like, then get ready to serve piping hot with fresh parsley and extra parmesan on top.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Chorizo Pasta

Garnishes

For a picture-perfect finish, shower your Creamy Chicken Chorizo Pasta with extra grated parmesan and a handful of chopped fresh parsley. Not only do these bits add creamy saltiness and fresh pop, but they also make each plate look dinner-party ready.

Side Dishes

This pasta is a full meal in itself, but a crisp green salad tossed with lemony vinaigrette or a side of garlic bread makes a perfect pairing. Both options help balance the creamy richness and provide a little crunch or zest alongside each creamy, savory bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving Creamy Chicken Chorizo Pasta in shallow bowls with a wedge of lemon on the side for a citrusy, bright twist. For a family-style dinner, garnish with extra herbs and serve straight from the skillet; or, spoon into ramekins and top with a sprinkle of cheese, giving each guest an individual portion with lots of golden, melty goodness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftover Creamy Chicken Chorizo Pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors only get deeper overnight, making next-day lunches or second helpings something to genuinely look forward to.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen, though the creamy sauce may separate slightly during thawing. For best results, let the pasta cool completely, then pack into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to one month and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to help bring the sauce back together if needed. You can also reheat portions in the microwave, stirring halfway through to ensure even warmth and prevent any dry spots.

FAQs

What type of chorizo works best here?

You can use either Spanish cured chorizo for a firmer, smokier bite, or try Mexican fresh chorizo if you want a slightly spicier, crumblier texture. Both add wonderful depth, so choose based on your flavor preference!

Can I make Creamy Chicken Chorizo Pasta with a different protein?

Absolutely—swap the chicken for turkey, shrimp, or even omit the meat for a vegetarian twist (just double up on the veggies and maybe add some white beans for heartiness).

Is there a lighter way to make this pasta?

You can substitute light cream for heavy cream or use half the cheese if you want to reduce richness, but keep in mind it might affect the sauce’s silkiness and overall decadent flavor.

What’s the best way to reheat for meal prep?

For a meal-prep friendly version, portion Creamy Chicken Chorizo Pasta into containers and reheat gently in the microwave or a saucepan with a bit of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.

Can I add extra vegetables or swap out the spinach?

Of course! Bell peppers, peas, or kale are all fantastic additions or substitutes for spinach—just toss them in with the onion to ensure they cook through and meld beautifully with the sauce.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in the mood to treat yourself or spoil your loved ones, Creamy Chicken Chorizo Pasta is a surefire winner. It’s vibrant, packed with flavor, and truly comforting—perfect for sharing or savoring solo. Give it a try and you’ll see exactly why it’s become my go-to for laughter-filled dinners and cozy nights in.