Description
Looking for a quick and delicious weeknight meal that’s packed with flavor? Look no further than this transformative Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb turkey sausage, sliced (or use any sausage you prefer)
- 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 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Begin your culinary journey by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced turkey sausage and cook them until they turn a beautiful golden brown on both sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once they are nicely browned, remove them from the skillet and set aside; this will help retain their flavor for later incorporation.
- In the same skillet where the sausage was cooked, add the diced chicken, onion, and garlic. Season generously with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Sauté for approximately 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink. This step builds the base flavor for your creamy sauce, as the drippings left from the sausage infuse the chicken with delicious flavor.
- While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your pasta of choice—whether rotini or penne— and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking, then drain the pasta and set it aside once done.
- Return the browned sausage to the skillet with the cooked chicken. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. It’s essential to allow the flavors to meld together, creating a creamy harmony of taste.
- With the sauce simmering, it’s time to lower the heat and stir in the shredded Pepper Jack and grated Parmesan cheese. Mixing these melted cheeses into the sauce will turn it into a luscious coating for your pasta. Ensure they melt completely, creating a smooth and creamy sauce.
- Finally, add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is beautifully coated in that rich, creamy sauce. This is where your dish comes to life; the colors of the ingredients blend beautifully, offering a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for color and an aromatic touch.
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making them perfect for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Protein: 30 g