Chipotle Lime Chicken Pasta

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. Drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Season and cook the chicken
   Season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, and ground cumin. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the vegetables
   In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the red onion and bell pepper, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4. Prepare the chipotle lime sauce
   Reduce heat to medium. Add the chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, and lime zest to the skillet. Stir for 30 seconds, then add the chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken.
5. Combine everything
   Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the lime juice and stir to combine. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and incorporated into the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
6. Finish the pasta
   Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss until well coated with the sauce. Stir in the chopped cilantro. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Allow the pasta to simmer in the sauce for 1-2 minutes to absorb the flavors.
7. Serve
   Transfer the pasta to a large serving dish or individual plates. Garnish with additional fresh cilantro, extra Parmesan cheese, and lime wedges if desired. Serve immediately while hot.