Description

Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta is a comforting, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken and savory turkey sausage cooked in a rich, cheesy sauce made with Pepper Jack and Parmesan cheeses. Tossed with al dente pasta and finished with fresh parsley, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of spice and creaminess for a satisfying weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Meat

1 lb turkey sausage, sliced (or any sausage of your preference)
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

Pasta and Dairy

12 oz rotini or penne pasta
1 cup heavy cream
1½ cups shredded Pepper Jack cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Liquids and Seasonings

2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Garnish

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cook the sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced turkey sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside to retain the flavorful juices in the pan.
Sauté chicken with aromatics: In the same skillet, add the diced chicken, diced onion, and minced garlic. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink.
Cook the pasta: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini or penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Combine sausage and liquids: Return the browned sausage to the skillet with the cooked chicken mixture. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat to meld the flavors.
Create the creamy cheese sauce: Lower the heat and gradually stir in the shredded Pepper Jack cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheeses are fully melted, creating a smooth and creamy sauce.
Toss pasta in sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss gently to evenly coat the pasta with the creamy cheese sauce, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
Garnish and serve: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Notes

You can substitute turkey sausage with any sausage of your choice, such as Italian or smoked sausage.
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes with the Italian seasoning.
Use rotini or penne pasta as they hold the sauce well, but other short pasta shapes also work.
Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore sauce consistency.