Get ready to spice up your pasta game with this delicious Mexican Chicken Pasta recipe. Combining the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine with the comforting goodness of pasta, this dish is a perfect fusion of two beloved culinary worlds. Tender chicken, zesty spices, colorful vegetables, and creamy sauce come together to create a meal that will satisfy your taste buds. Prepare yourself for a delightful journey of flavors with this Mexican-inspired pasta dish.
Ingredients:
8 ounces penne pasta or your preferred pasta shape
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional for heat)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup heavy cream or Mexican crema
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or Mexican blend cheese
Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Lime wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the diced onion, red bell pepper, and jalapeño pepper (if using). Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
Add the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir and cook for about 1 minute to release the flavors.
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream or Mexican crema. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and mix well.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the chicken and sauce mixture. Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly with the sauce and chicken.
Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired.
Serve the Mexican Chicken Pasta hot with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of tangy flavor, if desired.
Enjoy the enticing combination of Mexican flavors and comforting pasta in this Mexican Chicken Pasta dish. The tender chicken, zesty spices, and creamy sauce will create a mouthwatering experience that will satisfy your cravings for a delicious and hearty meal. Embrace the fusion of flavors and enjoy the vibrant taste of this delightful pasta creation!