How spicy is this Chipotle Brown Sugar Pulled Chicken Alfredo Skillet?

You can adjust the spice to your liking. Chipotle peppers add a smoky heat. To make it milder, use fewer peppers or remove seeds. For more heat, add more chipotle or red pepper flakes.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free or gluten-free?

Yes, you can! For dairy-free, use coconut cream or plant-based cream instead of heavy cream. Choose gluten-free pasta and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free. This recipe is flexible for different diets.

What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Choose pasta that holds sauce well, like fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni. These shapes trap the creamy Alfredo sauce and chicken, making each bite perfect.

How long can I store leftovers, and how should I reheat them?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat with a splash of cream or milk to keep the sauce creamy. Heat gently over medium-low, stirring often to avoid sauce separation.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts. But thighs are more flavorful and tender. If using breasts, avoid overcooking to keep them moist.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

It's great for families! Adjust the spice for kids. The brown sugar balances the heat, and the Alfredo sauce is kid-friendly. It's a fun way to introduce new flavors.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can prep parts ahead, but it's best fresh. Cook and shred the chicken a day before. Prepare the Alfredo sauce partially. Finish the dish just before serving for the best taste and texture.

Chipotle Brown Sugar Pulled Chicken Alfredo Skillet: Ultimate 30-Minute Recipe

Name: Chipotle Brown Sugar Pulled Chicken Alfredo Skillet Recipe (Easy 30-Min)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Southwestern-Italian Fusion
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced; 2 teaspoons smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta; 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Description

A bold fusion dish combining smoky chipotle heat with creamy Alfredo richness. This one-pan wonder delivers restaurant-quality flavors in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1/4 cup brown sugar

2–3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced

2 teaspoons smoked paprika

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

3 cloves garlic, minced

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta

2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

1 tablespoon lime juice

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

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Instructions

1. Season chicken thighs with brown sugar, minced chipotle peppers, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let marinate for 15 minutes.

2. Cook chicken in slow cooker on low for 3-4 hours or until tender and easily shredded.

3. Remove chicken and shred using two forks. Reserve 1/2 cup cooking liquid.

4. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

5. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

6. Slowly whisk in heavy cream, bringing to a gentle simmer.

7. Gradually add Parmesan cheese, whisking constantly until smooth and creamy.

8. Add shredded chicken and reserved cooking liquid to the Alfredo sauce.

9. Fold in cooked pasta, ensuring all pieces are well coated.

10. Remove from heat and stir in lime juice and fresh cilantro.

11. Garnish with red pepper flakes if desired and serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated.

Chicken thighs provide more flavor and tenderness than breasts.

Adjust chipotle peppers to taste – start with less for milder heat.

Add a splash of pasta water if sauce becomes too thick.

Store leftovers in refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Reheat gently with a splash of cream to restore texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: Southwestern-Italian Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 650
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 890mg
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 42g
Cholesterol: 140mg