Description
Southwestern Cheesy Chicken Pasta is a delightful fusion of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and vibrant southwestern spices, all tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta. This satisfying dish not only bursts with flavor but also guarantees an appealing presentation that will impress your guests. Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that invites customization to suit various dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 8 oz penne pasta
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Mexican spices. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from heat and let rest.
- In a pot of boiling salted water, cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In the same skillet used for chicken, sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute). Add sour cream and cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
- Cut rested chicken into bite-sized pieces. Combine pasta and chicken with the sauce mixture, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
- Adjust seasoning as needed before serving hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Southwestern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg