If you’re looking for a dinner that packs a punch (literally), Rattlesnake Pasta is just the recipe you need. With a spicy, creamy sauce that brings together bold flavors and a satisfying bite, this pasta is perfect for anyone who loves a little heat with their comfort food. Every time I make it, it feels like a celebration—because it’s that good!

Short Description

Rattlesnake Pasta is a creamy, spicy pasta dish that’s full of flavor and a little kick. With juicy chicken, zesty seasoning, and just the right amount of heat from jalapeños, it’s a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s creamy and comforting with a spicy twist
Easy to make in one pan
Packed with flavor from simple ingredients
The heat is customizable, so you can make it as spicy as you like
Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful weekend treat

Ingredients

The full list of ingredients is below, but here’s a preview of what you’ll need:

Chicken (boneless, skinless)
Fettuccine pasta
Cream cheese and heavy cream for the creamy base
Jalapeños (fresh, diced)
Garlic, onion, and a few seasonings to bring it all together
Parmesan cheese for that rich finish
Olive oil for cooking

Cook the Chicken and Pasta

Start by cooking your chicken in olive oil until it’s golden and cooked through. While that’s going, boil the fettuccine according to the package instructions, then set it aside.

Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same pan, sauté your garlic and onion until fragrant, then add the jalapeños. Let them soften just a bit before adding in the cream cheese and heavy cream. Stir everything together until it becomes a smooth, creamy sauce.

Add the Chicken and Pasta

Now, chop your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it back to the pan with the sauce. Toss in the cooked fettuccine, then sprinkle in the Parmesan. Mix it all together until every strand of pasta is coated with that luscious, spicy sauce.

Simmer and Serve

Let everything simmer together for a few minutes, then taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, and if you like more heat, add a few extra jalapeños on top!

Expert Tips and Tricks

If you want to kick up the spice, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce
Use a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan for an even creamier texture
Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or even sausage if you’re looking for a twist
For an extra touch, garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you want a milder version, reduce the jalapeños and replace the cream cheese with a bit more heavy cream
You can swap out the fettuccine for another pasta shape like penne or rigatoni
For a non-dairy option, try using coconut milk in place of heavy cream and vegan cream cheese
Add veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for a bit of color and nutrition

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Rattlesnake Pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed in a lemony vinaigrette to balance out the heat
A crisp white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, will complement the spiciness without overpowering it
Serve it with a side of garlic bread for a real indulgence

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to loosen up the sauce
This dish also freezes well—just let it cool completely before storing in a freezer-safe container

FAQs

How spicy is Rattlesnake Pasta?
It’s moderately spicy, but you can adjust the heat level by adding or reducing the amount of jalapeños or other spicy ingredients.

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you like—penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti would work well.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the sauce and chicken ahead of time, then store them separately. When ready to serve, just cook the pasta, heat up the sauce, and combine.

What’s the best way to keep the pasta from getting soggy?
Make sure to cook the pasta al dente and toss it in the sauce just before serving. If it sits in the sauce too long, it might absorb too much liquid.

Conclusion

If you’re craving something comforting yet exciting, this Rattlesnake Pasta is the answer. It’s creamy, spicy, and so easy to make—it’ll become your go-to pasta dish in no time. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or serving it at a dinner party, it’s sure to impress!

Rattlesnake Pasta: A Spicy, Creamy Delight You Can’t Resist

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Touria Elkoudssi
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4-6 servings
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Instructions

Cook the Chicken and Pasta: Start by cooking your chicken in olive oil until golden and cooked through. While that’s cooking, boil the fettuccine according to package instructions and set aside.
Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same pan, sauté garlic and onion until fragrant. Add the jalapeños and soften them before adding the cream cheese and heavy cream. Stir until smooth.
Add Chicken and Pasta: Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it to the sauce with the fettuccine. Sprinkle in Parmesan and toss to coat the pasta with the creamy sauce.
Simmer and Serve: Simmer for a few minutes, then adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, adding extra jalapeños if you like more heat.