Southwest Chicken Pasta: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Southwest Chicken Pasta
If you’re looking for a dish that embodies comfort and flavor, look no further than Southwest Chicken Pasta. This delightful recipe combines succulent chicken, creamy sauce, and zesty Southwest spices, all tossed together with penne pasta. It’s a wonderful meal that is sure to please the whole family!
A Personal Story Behind My Southwest Chicken Pasta Journey
My love for Southwest Chicken Pasta began during a family gathering where my aunt served a similar dish. The blend of flavors was unlike anything I had tasted before, and it instantly became a favorite. Over the years, I have experimented with the recipe, adding my own twists and turns, and now I’m excited to share my version with you!
What Makes This Southwest Chicken Pasta Recipe Special?
What sets this Southwest Chicken Pasta apart is the unique combination of spices that give it that signature kick. The creamy sauce, enriched with cheddar cheese, complements the seasoned chicken perfectly, creating a dish that is both hearty and satisfying. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it a great choice for weeknight dinners.
The Full Southwest Chicken Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb. Penne Pasta
- 1 lb. Chicken Breasts, cut into 1″ strips
- 1 (15 oz.) can Diced Tomatoes
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 1 1/2 cups Cheddar Cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Onion, chopped
- 4 Garlic Cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon Honey
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1 tablespoon Butter
- 2 tablespoons Cilantro, chopped
Southwest Seasoning:
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Chili Powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon Oregano
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/8 teaspoon Cayenne
Instructions
- Combine all the Southwest Seasoning ingredients in a small bowl and set aside.
- Place the chicken strips in a large bowl, drizzle with honey, and add half of the seasoning mix. Toss to coat the chicken evenly.
- Boil a large pot of water and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Cook the seasoned chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover to keep warm.
- In the same skillet, add diced onion and butter. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is tender. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes and stir in the remaining seasoning mix. Let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Gradually stir in the heavy cream until well combined. Bring to a simmer, then return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the mixture and stir until melted. Add the cooked penne pasta and toss until coated in the creamy sauce.
- Let the dish sit for a few minutes off the heat to thicken slightly. Stir the pasta once more to ensure it’s fully coated in the sauce. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro before serving. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Southwest Chicken Pasta
This Southwest Chicken Pasta is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the meal by serving it with a side salad or some crusty bread. For a lighter version, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini into the skillet with the onions. You can also substitute the chicken for shrimp or turkey for a different twist. For a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the Southwest Seasoning.
Frequently Asked Questions About Southwest Chicken Pasta
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then cook the pasta when you’re ready to serve. Just reheat the sauce gently before adding the pasta.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream substitute if you prefer a lighter option.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat.
Notes:
No alcoholic drinks allowed, please substitute with a non-alcoholic option.
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 480
- Servings: 4
Southwest Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 0.5 lb Penne Pasta
- 1 lb Chicken Breasts, cut into 1" strips
- 15 oz Diced Tomatoes
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 1.5 cups Cheddar Cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Onion, chopped
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Honey
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1 tablespoon Butter
- 2 tablespoons Cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Combine all the Southwest Seasoning ingredients in a small bowl and set aside.
- Place the chicken strips in a large bowl, drizzle with honey, and add half of the seasoning mix. Toss to coat the chicken evenly.
- Boil a large pot of water and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Cook the seasoned chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover to keep warm.
- In the same skillet, add diced onion and butter. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is tender. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes and stir in the remaining seasoning mix. Let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Gradually stir in the heavy cream until well combined. Bring to a simmer, then return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the mixture and stir until melted. Add the cooked penne pasta and toss until coated in the creamy sauce.
- Let the dish sit for a few minutes off the heat to thicken slightly. Stir the pasta once more to ensure it's fully coated in the sauce. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro before serving. Enjoy!