A delightful pasta dish combining tender chicken, spicy chipotle, and creamy cheese for a satisfying meal.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Adding a splash of olive oil to the boiling water can prevent the pasta from sticking.
Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until browned and fully cooked.
Cut the chicken into even pieces to ensure uniform cooking.
Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
Lower the heat slightly to avoid burning the garlic.
Stir in the diced tomatoes and chipotle chile in adobo, cooking until the mixture is heated through.
Mash the chipotle slightly to release more flavor into the sauce.
Add the corn to the skillet and cook until warmed through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Combine the cooked penne with the sauce in the skillet, tossing to coat evenly. Stir in half of the queso fresco and mozzarella cheese.
Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
Serve the pasta in bowls, garnished with the remaining cheese and fresh cilantro.
Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.