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Creamy Southwest Chicken Pasta

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A comforting and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender chicken, rich cream, and a zesty blend of southwest spices, perfect for busy weeknights.

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 tbsp Honey
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil
  • 1 tbsp Butter
  • 2 tbsp Cilantro (chopped)
  • 1 1/2 tsp Chili Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Cumin
  • 1/2 tsp Oregano
  • 1 tsp Paprika
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 1/8 tsp Cayenne

Instructions

  1. Prepare the seasoning mix: In a small bowl, mix together chili powder, cumin, oregano, paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne.
  2. Season the chicken: In a large bowl, add the chicken strips, drizzle with honey, and toss with half of the seasoning mix until evenly coated.
  3. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  4. Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a plate.
  5. Sauté onions and garlic: In the same skillet, add onions and butter. Cook for about 3 minutes, or until the onions are tender. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  6. Make the sauce: Add the diced tomatoes and the remaining seasoning mixture to the skillet. Bring to a low simmer. Gradually pour in the heavy cream while stirring until fully incorporated. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes.
  7. Combine chicken and cheese: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the mixture. Stir until the cheese is melted and combined.
  8. Add the pasta: Gently fold the cooked penne into the sauce, ensuring it is well coated. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  9. Garnish and serve: Just before serving, stir in the chopped cilantro. Enjoy your creamy southwest chicken pasta warm!

Notes

Feel free to substitute chicken with turkey or tofu for different protein options, and adjust the cheese type for a different flavor profile.

Find it online: https://www.chickensecret.com/creamy-southwest-chicken-pasta/