Description
Creamy Southwest Chicken Pasta is a delightful fusion of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, zesty sauce that brings comfort food to a whole new level. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings, offering a burst of flavors that will transport you straight to the Southwest. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can create a meal that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 12 oz penne or fusilli pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons southwest seasoning
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and southwest seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and slice.
- In the same skillet, bring salted water to boil for pasta. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about a minute. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth while stirring continuously.
- Stir in the cornstarch mixture until the sauce thickens.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese into the sauce until melted. Return sliced chicken and cooked pasta to the skillet; toss to coat everything in the creamy sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnished with cilantro or green onions if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Southwestern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 400g)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 140mg