Southwest Chicken Pasta
Southwest Chicken Pasta combines penne pasta, tender chicken, and a medley of flavors and ingredients to give it a Tex-Mex-inspired flare. The dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for the vibrant flavor you would expect from Southwest cuisine.
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 698kcal
Ingredients
- 16 ounces penne pasta
- 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts, (about 1 ½ pounds), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced (about 1 cup)
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 2 cups (476 g) heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1-2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 cup (113 g) mild cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 can (4 ounces) green chiles
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained, rinsed
- 1 can (8.7 ounces) corn kernels, drained
- 1 large jalapeno pepper, seeded, diced, reserving some for garnish
- sour cream, for garnish
- cilantro, optional for garnish
- salt, to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook until al dente (9-10 minutes) or according to package instructions.
- While the pasta is boiling, season the chicken evenly with the taco seasoning.
- To a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. When the oil is hot, add the cubed chicken. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken from the pan and tent it with aluminum foil to keep it warm.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion has softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Add the heavy cream, red pepper flakes, salt, and cheese, stirring often or until the cheese is fully melted (about 2-3 minutes).
- Mix in the diced tomatoes, green chiles, black beans, and corn. Let simmer for another 4-5 minutes until heated through.
- Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and jalapeno pepper. Toss to coat.
- Garnish with reserved jalapenos, sour cream, and cilantro (optional).
Nutrition
Serving: 1serving | Calories: 698kcal