Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, toss the cubed chicken breast with olive oil, salt, garlic powder, chili powder, coriander, oregano, black pepper, and cumin. Mix thoroughly, ensuring each piece is evenly coated with the spice blend. This marinade creates the foundational flavor that complements the chipotle sauce perfectly.
- Heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken cubes and brown on all sides until fully cooked through and golden, about 6-8 minutes. Drizzle with honey and fresh lime juice, tossing to coat each piece. Transfer the chicken to a separate bowl and set aside while you prepare the rest of your copycat Cheesecake Factory chipotle pasta.
- Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, typically 10-12 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining, as this starchy liquid can help adjust sauce consistency if needed.
- Using the same pan where you cooked the chicken (without cleaning it-those browned bits add flavor), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced red and yellow bell peppers, chopped asparagus, and minced garlic. Sauté for approximately 2 minutes until the vegetables are just softened but still vibrant and slightly crisp.
- Pour in the heavy cream, adobo sauce, chili powder, paprika, and salt to taste. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a light boil. The adobo sauce is the star ingredient that gives this Cheesecake Factory chipotle pasta recipe its signature smoky flavor.
- Stir in the cream cheese and parmesan cheese, breaking up the cream cheese as it melts into the sauce. Lower the heat to medium-low and allow the sauce to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until it thickens to a rich, creamy consistency that will coat the pasta beautifully.
- Add the frozen peas to the sauce and cook for another minute until they’re heated through and tender. Add the cooked penne pasta, the honey-lime chicken, and a generous handful of chopped fresh cilantro to the pan. Toss everything together thoroughly until every piece of pasta is completely coated in the smoky chipotle sauce.
- Transfer your copycat Cheesecake Factory chipotle pasta to serving bowls or plates. Garnish generously with extra parmesan cheese and fresh cilantro. Serve immediately in restaurant-sized portions for the full Cheesecake Factory experience!
Video
Notes
Store leftover Cheesecake Factory chipotle pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of heavy cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency, as cream sauces tend to thicken when cold. Microwave reheating works but may result in uneven texture.
