# Components:
→ Chicken & Marinade
01 - 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - 1 teaspoon chili powder
04 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
05 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
06 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
08 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
→ Vegetables
09 - 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
10 - 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into strips
11 - 1 green bell pepper, sliced into strips
12 - 1 medium red onion, sliced into strips
13 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
→ Pasta
14 - 12 ounces penne or fettuccine pasta
→ Alfredo Sauce
15 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
16 - 1 cup heavy cream
17 - 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
18 - 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
19 - Salt and black pepper to taste
→ Garnish
20 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
21 - 1 lime, cut into wedges (optional)
# Method:
01 - In a medium bowl, combine sliced chicken breast with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to coat and set aside for 10 minutes.
02 - In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/4 cup cooking water.
03 - Heat a large skillet over medium-high. Add marinated chicken and sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
04 - In the same skillet, add a splash of olive oil if needed. Add bell peppers and red onion; sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
05 - Reduce skillet to medium heat. Add butter; once melted, pour in heavy cream. Stir in softened cream cheese until smooth.
06 - Gradually add Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until sauce becomes creamy. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and black pepper if needed.
07 - Return cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss thoroughly to coat with sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
08 - Top with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately, accompanied by lime wedges if desired.