This post contains affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.
Spicy Tequila Lime Chicken Fettuccine tantalizes the taste buds with its harmonious blend of fiery spices, zesty lime, and smooth tequila, all woven together with tender chicken strips and al dente fettuccine for a boldly flavored, unforgettable meal.
Don’t want all the extras in a recipe post? We provide a skip to recipe button in the top left corner, as well as a clickable table of contents, just below, to help make this page easier to navigate.
Table of Contents
Easy Spicy Lime Chicken Tequila Pasta
I love spicy chicken dishes – and I love chicken pasta.
So when I was recently looking to make a Spicy Tequila Lime Chicken Fettuccine (as for once, I had all the ingredients) – I got a crazy idea to kick it up a notch and make it even more flavorful with a smoky and zesty tequila-lime-tomato sauce to pull out even more of the smoky flavor of my favorite reposado tequila.
I took the idea of California Pizza Kitchen’s famous Tequila Lime Chicken Fettuccine, and kicked the colorful, zesty dish up with this version.
This pasta will taste pretty different than the classic, since it relies on a tomato based sauce that is rich with chili flavors that perfectly accent the tequila.
How to Make Spicy Chicken Fettuccine
First assemble the following ingredients:
- Extra virgin olive oil (2 tbsp) – A staple for sautéing, olive oil provides a healthy fat base that infuses the dish with its subtle, fruity flavor, enhancing the overall richness.
- Chicken breasts (2 lbs) – Lean and tender, chicken breasts serve as the protein-packed canvas for the bold, spicy, and citrusy marinade in this vibrant dish.
- Celtic sea salt (1 tbsp) – Known for its moisture and mineral-rich profile, Celtic sea salt enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients with a more nuanced taste than regular table salt.
- Onion (1) – Finely chopped onion adds a foundational aromatic sweetness and depth, melding seamlessly into the sauce’s complex flavor profile.
- Garlic (8) – Minced garlic offers a pungent kick, essential for building the bold garlic base that characterizes this dish’s enticing aroma and taste.
- Tequila (1 cup) – Tequila brings a unique depth and slight edge to the sauce, deglazing the pan and incorporating a sophisticated flavor that complements the lime and spices.
- Juice lime (1) – Fresh lime juice and zest brighten the dish with their sharp, tangy essence, cutting through the richness and adding a refreshing lift.
- Jalapenos (1/4 cup) – Diced jalapenos introduce a fiery heat that can be adjusted to taste, infusing the fettuccine with a spicy kick that pairs well with the tangy tequila lime sauce.
- Ro-tel chili and lime (1 can) – this variety bursts with the vibrant, tangy zest of lime and the warm, earthy undertones of chili, offering a spicy kick that elevates dishes with its bold and refreshing flavor profile. This adds the kick to Spicy Tequila Lime Chicken Fettuccini.
- Oregano (1 tbsp) – Dried oregano sprinkles in a hint of earthy, slightly bitter undertones, contributing to the herbaceous backdrop of the sauce.
- Basil (1 tbsp) – Fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped, add a sweet, peppery flavor that complements the citrus and herbal notes, enhancing the dish’s freshness.
- Cilantro (2 tbsp) – Chopped cilantro sprinkled atop the finished dish offers a burst of lemony, slightly peppery flavor, adding a layer of complexity and color.
- Honey (2 tbsp) – A drizzle of honey balances the heat from the jalapenos and the acidity of the lime, adding a subtle sweetness that rounds out the flavors.
- Olives (1/4 cup) – Sliced olives can be added for a briny, salty contrast that punctuates the dish with Mediterranean flair and a touch of texture.
Use this Method
Cook Chicken. Heat a large, heavy pan on medium high until scorching hot, but not smoking. Drizzle olive oil into pan, and heat until shimmery, about 45 seconds. Add chicken breasts into pan. Cook 6 minutes on each side, until well browned. Remove chicken, set aside.
Add Veg. Add onions to pan, and let brown – about 4 minutes. Add garlic, and continue to brown, another 2 minutes.
Assemble Sauce. Add tequila and cook down, 4-6 minutes.Add tomatoes, honey, spices, and olives. Add chicken back to pan, and cook until 165 degrees internal temperature. If your chicken is very thick, and it takes so long to cook you reduce all of your sauce – never fear – just add more lime juice, a splash more tequila, and/or some chicken stock.
Serve. Serve over al dente fettuccine and enjoy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in a refrigerator for up to 3 days. Can be frozen and re-heated – try to freeze as flat as possible to avoid a giant frozen clump and add 1/2 cup stock when reheating.
Tips and Tricks for Making Spicy Tequila Lime Chicken Fettucine
Marinate the Chicken: Enhance the chicken’s flavor by marinating it in a mixture of tequila, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of salt for at least 30 minutes, or overnight in the fridge for deeper infusion.
Use Quality Tequila: The tequila’s flavor significantly impacts the dish, so opt for a good-quality tequila that you enjoy drinking. The smoother the tequila, the better the sauce will taste.
Control the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili or red pepper flakes according to your heat preference. Remember, it’s easier to add more spice than to try to mitigate excessive heat.
Fresh Lime Juice: Use fresh lime juice for the marinade and sauce to get the best zesty flavor. The brightness of fresh lime can’t be matched by bottled juice.
Save Pasta Water: Before draining your fettuccine, save some of the pasta water. Its starchy quality can help adjust the sauce’s consistency, making it silkier if needed.
Perfectly Cooked Pasta: Cook the fettuccine al dente according to package instructions. It will continue to soak up the sauce even after it’s drained, so slightly undercooking it ensures it doesn’t become mushy.
Sear the Chicken: After marinating, sear the chicken pieces on high heat until they develop a nice crust. This not only adds flavor but also locks in the juices.
Deglaze with Tequila: Use a portion of the tequila to deglaze the pan after cooking the chicken. This process lifts the flavorful bits stuck to the pan, enriching the sauce.
Gradually Add Cream: If your recipe calls for cream, add it slowly to the pan, stirring constantly to prevent curdling and ensure a smooth sauce.
Garnish Wisely: Enhance the dish with garnishes like fresh chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for additional layers of flavor.
Pair with the Right Wine: If you enjoy wine with your meal, choose a crisp, acidic white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to cut through the creaminess and complement the lime’s citrus notes.
Serve Immediately: Fettuccine tends to soak up sauce quickly, so for the best texture and flavor, serve the dish immediately after combining the pasta with the sauce and chicken.
FAQ’s
Yes, you can substitute the tequila with chicken broth or a mix of lime juice and a splash of white vinegar to mimic the acidity and depth of flavor that tequila provides.
Control the heat by varying the amount of chili flakes or fresh chilies used. Start with a small amount and add more as needed. You can also adjust the spiciness by serving with additional chili flakes on the side.
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, overnight marination in the refrigerator will deepen the flavors even more.
While fresh lime juice is recommended for its bright, vibrant flavor, you can use bottled lime juice in a pinch. Keep in mind that fresh lime juice will give a better taste to the dish.
A blanco or silver tequila is best for cooking, as it has a clean, pure flavor that complements the other ingredients without overpowering them.
Yes, to make it gluten-free, ensure that your tequila is gluten-free (most are, but check to be sure) and use a gluten-free pasta. Also, verify that any store-bought ingredients like chicken broth are gluten-free.
Absolutely! Bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms can be sautéed and added to the dish for extra flavor and nutrition. Add them towards the end of cooking to retain their texture and color.
If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of pasta water or chicken broth to thin it out. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce, or mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and add it to the sauce to thicken.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a little chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
It’s best enjoyed fresh, as the creamy sauce may separate and the pasta can become mushy upon thawing. If you must freeze it, do so in a tightly sealed container and consume within a month for best quality.
What to Enjoy with Spicy Tequila Lime Chicken Fettucine
Garlic Bread: A side of warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce and adding a comforting, crunchy texture to the meal.
Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and croutons, tossed in a creamy dressing, offers a refreshing contrast to the spicy pasta.
Grilled Vegetables: Char-grilled vegetables such as asparagus, bell peppers, and zucchini add a smoky flavor and provide a healthy, colorful side that complements the richness of the dish.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttered corn on the cob provides a slight crunch and natural sweetness that balances the spiciness of the chicken fettuccine.
Cilantro Lime Rice: For those who enjoy a bit more zest, cilantro lime rice is a light, fragrant side that pairs wonderfully with the tequila lime flavors in the chicken.
Avocado Salad: A simple avocado salad, with ripe avocado slices, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and a lime vinaigrette, adds creaminess and a burst of freshness.
Sangria: A refreshing glass of sangria, with its fruity flavors and hint of sweetness, can help tame the heat of the dish while complementing its lime and tequila notes.
Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites): This creamy, spicy salad made from sweet corn, mayonnaise, cotija cheese, lime juice, and chili powder, offers a delightful mix of flavors that echo the dish’s Mexican-inspired ingredients.
Chilled Cucumber Soup: A cool, soothing cucumber soup can be a perfect starter, offering a refreshing counterpoint to the spicy and bold flavors of the main dish.
Mango Salsa: A side of mango salsa, with its sweet and tangy profile, adds a fruity dimension that beautifully balances the heat of the chicken fettuccine.
Also try: Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Bowls , 1o Minute Chicken Tortilla Soup, 1 Pot Chicken Risotto , and Stuffed Chicken Parmesan.
Try these other favorites:
If you love this easy recipe please click the stars below to give it a five star rating and leave a comment! Pease also help me share on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest!
Follow on Instagram
CONNECT WITH SWEET C’S!
Be sure to follow me on social media and get in on all the fun!
Only have 30 minutes to get dinner on the table? Sign up for my 30 minute dinner plans direct to your inbox!
Find and shop my favorite products in my Amazon storefront here!
Spicy Tequila Lime Chicken Fettuccine
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 lbs chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp celtic sea salt
- 1 large onion diced
- 8 cloves garlic diced
- 1 cup tequila
- Juice of 1 lime
- ¼ cup sliced jalapenos with juice from the jar
- 1 can ro-tel chili and lime
- 1 tbsp fresh diced oregano
- 1 tbsp fresh diced basil
- 2 tbsp diced cilantro
- 2 tbsp honey
- ¼ cup sliced olives drained
Instructions
- Heat a large, heavy pan on medium high until scorching hot, but not smoking.
- Drizzle olive oil into pan, and heat until shimmery, about 45 seconds.
- Add chicken breasts into pan.
- Cook 6 minutes on each side, until well browned.
- Remove chicken, set aside.
- Add onions to pan, and let brown – about 4 minutes.
- Add garlic, and continue to brown, another 2 minutes.
- Add tequila and cook down, 4-6 minutes.
- Add tomatoes, honey, spices, and olives.
- Add chicken back to pan, and cook until 165 degrees internal temperature.
- If your chicken is very thick, and it takes so long to cook you reduce all of your sauce – never fear – just add more lime juice, a splash more tequila, and/or some chicken stock.
- Serve over al dente fettuccine, and enjoy!
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in a refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Can be frozen and re-heated – try to freeze as flat as possible to avoid a giant frozen clump, and add 1/2 cup stock when reheating.
![A person holding a fork over a plate of spaghetti and best chicken [Keyword: alfredo].](https://sweetcsdesigns.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Untitled-design-6-600x600.png)
