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If you’re craving something creamy, spicy, and high in protein — this One Pan Creamy Peri Peri Chicken Pasta is the answer.
It’s got tender chicken, smoky peri peri flavour, and a creamy, glossy sauce that clings perfectly to every bite of pasta. It’s simple, quick, and guaranteed to become your new weeknight go-to.
At under 500 calories and over 44g of protein per serving, it delivers all the flavour of a takeaway pasta dish — without the effort.
Why you'll love this recipe
Under 500 calories but full of creamy, spicy flavour
One-pan convenience = minimal washing up
Perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and comfort
Ideal for meal prep or an easy midweek dinner
This One Pan Creamy Peri Peri Chicken Pasta is everything you want in a weeknight meal — creamy, spicy, and packed with protein. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or serving it fresh from the pan, this one’s guaranteed to hit the spot.
Recipe Info
10 minutes
20 minutes
4
One Pan | High Protein | Pasta Dish
One Pan Peri Peri Chicken Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
225g uncooked penne pasta
140g light cream cheese (Philadelphia Light)
600g chicken breast, diced
1 large onion, chopped
2 mixed bell peppers, sliced
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 red chilli, finely chopped
2 tbsp peri peri seasoning
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp olive oil
1.5 tbsp peri peri marinade (for garnish)
Fresh parsley, to serve
Instructions
Cook the chicken.
Heat 1 tsp olive oil in a large non-stick pan over medium heat. Add diced chicken and 1 tbsp peri peri seasoning. Cook for 5–7 minutes until golden and cooked through.Add the vegetables.
Add the bell peppers, chilli, onion, garlic, remaining peri peri seasoning, and cumin. Season well and cook for 5 minutes until softened.Make it creamy.
Lower the heat and make a well in the centre of the pan. Stir in the light cream cheese with 1–2 tbsp water until a smooth, glossy sauce forms. Add more water if needed to loosen.Cook the pasta.
Meanwhile, cook pasta al dente in salted water. Drain, reserving a splash of the pasta water.Combine everything.
Add cooked pasta to the sauce and chicken, mixing well to coat. Add a splash of pasta water if needed for creaminess.Finish & serve.
Garnish with fresh parsley and a drizzle of peri peri marinade. Serve immediately and enjoy.
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This One Pan Creamy Peri Peri Chicken Pasta is everything you want in a weeknight meal — creamy, spicy, and packed with protein. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or serving it fresh from the pan, this one’s guaranteed to hit the spot. Save this Peri Peri Chicken Pasta Recipe and come back to it anytime you want a quick, healthy dinner that actually satisfies.
Why choose One Pan Peri Peri Chicken Pasta Recipe
High-Protein
Easy to cook in one pan
Delicious and nutritious!
SWAPS + UPGRADES
Make it lighter: Use reduced-fat cream cheese or swap half for Greek yoghurt.
Boost the veg: Add spinach, courgette, or cherry tomatoes.
Add extra heat: Stir in chilli flakes or an extra spoon of peri peri marinade.
Go dairy-free: Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
Meal prep tip: Keeps well in the fridge for 3–4 days — reheat with a splash of water.
More Recipes at Archer Kitchen
Thanks for stopping by Archer Kitchen by Rebecca Archer. Whether you’re here for quick weekday fixes, indulgent weekend treats, or to explore new flavours, we’ve got your back. Hungry for more inspiration? Dive into my collection of recipes and check out my cookbooks for exclusive tips, tricks, and flavour-packed dishes that’ll take your cooking game to the next level. Bookmark us, come back often, and let’s keep cooking up a storm together!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, just use gluten-free pasta — everything else is naturally gluten-free.
Can I meal prep this?
Definitely. It reheats really well with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
What peri peri seasoning should I use?
Any store-bought blend works. For a bolder flavour, try medium or hot varieties.
Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes! Swap in boneless, skinless chicken thighs and adjust the cooking time slightly.
Is this recipe spicy?
It’s mild to medium heat — adjust the chilli or marinade to your preference.
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