Salsa Verde Chicken Pasta

Growing up, one of my favorite meals was a hearty pasta dish that brought everyone to the table. When I discovered the magic of combining pasta with flavorful salsa verde and tender chicken, it felt like I had unlocked a secret family recipe. That’s how my beloved Salsa Verde Chicken Pasta was born! This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser, but it also makes for an ideal lunch packed in a thermos. Picture yourself in a cozy kitchen, with the aroma of simmering chicken broth and spices wafting through the air as you whip up this delicious meal that can be enjoyed any time of the year.

Recipe Ingredients for Salsa Verde Chicken Pasta

Using quality ingredients is key to the success of your Salsa Verde Chicken Pasta. The combination of flavors and textures brings this dish to life. Let’s look at the main players that make it so special.

• 2 cups chicken broth: This is the base of your sauce, adding depth and moisture.
• ½ cup salsa verde: Adds a zesty kick and vibrant color.
• 1 cup half and half: Provides creaminess and richness.
• 12 ounces pasta: Choose your favorite type for the perfect bite.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of all ingredients.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: A touch of spice to elevate the dish.
• 2 cups rotisserie chicken: Tender and flavorful, it simplifies the cooking process.
• 1 cup shredded cheese: A melty topping that ties everything together.

Step by Step Guide for Salsa Verde Chicken Pasta

Making Salsa Verde Chicken Pasta is as simple as it is delicious. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

1. Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken broth, salsa verde, half and half, pasta, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil, letting the flavors meld together as the pasta begins to soften.
2. Once boiling, cover the skillet with a lid. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes. This allows the pasta to absorb the rich flavors while cooking through.
3. After 15 minutes, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the shredded chicken and 1 cup of cheese. As you mix, the cheese will create a creamy sauce that envelops the pasta wonderfully.
4. For an extra touch of cheesy goodness, add the remaining cheese on top of the pasta. Cover the skillet with the lid for 2 minutes, allowing the heat to melt the cheese into a gooey topping.
5. To pack your delicious creation for lunch, preheat your thermos container. Fill it with about 1 ½ cups of the salsa verde pasta. This will keep it warm and ready for you to enjoy later.
6. Close the thermos container and place it into your lunch bag along with some fresh snacks, ensuring you include an ice pack to keep everything chilled until it’s time to eat.

Make It Your Own

Get creative with your Salsa Verde Chicken Pasta by incorporating different ingredients or serving suggestions. Here are some tips to inspire you!

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop for the best texture.
• Freezing: You can freeze this dish by allowing it to cool completely and then placing it in freezer-safe containers. Enjoy it within three months.
• Pairing: Serve with a simple side salad or garlic bread to round out your meal.
• Spice Level: Adjust the spice level by adding diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper to the sauce.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap out the chicken for sautéed vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to make it vegetarian-friendly.

What to Pair With Salsa Verde Chicken Pasta

Finding the perfect pairings for your Salsa Verde Chicken Pasta can elevate your meal experience. Here are some ideas that complement this tasty dish.

• Salads: A fresh garden salad or a crunchy coleslaw can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Breads: Serve with warm garlic bread or crusty baguettes to soak up any leftover sauce.
• Dips: Pair with a side of guacamole or a light salsa for dipping.
• Occasions: Perfect for casual lunches, family dinners, or even potlucks. It’s a dish that travels well!
• Seasonal Fruits: Round out your meal with slices of seasonal fruits, like juicy watermelon or sweet strawberries.

FAQ

Conclusion

The wonderful thing about Salsa Verde Chicken Pasta is its creamy richness combined with zesty flavors that make every bite a delight. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also makes for a fantastic meal prep option. I encourage you to try this recipe and bring a taste of joy to your dining table. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll know it’s a recipe you’ll come back to time and time again.

Salsa Verde Chicken Pasta

This Salsa Verde Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food! Creamy, zesty, and loaded with tender chicken, it's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty lunch. You'll want to make this easy recipe tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 18 minutes mins

Total Time 23 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Pasta

Cuisine: American, Mexican

Calories: 550

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups chicken broth
• ½ cups salsa verde
• 1 cup half and half
• 12 ounces pasta
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups rotisserie chicken
• 1 cup shredded cheese

Equipment

• Thermos
• Large Skillet

Method

 

1. In a large skillet, over medium-high heat, add the chicken broth, salsa verde, half and half, pasta, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.
2. Cover with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 15 minutes.
3. Remove the skillet from the heat, and stir in the shredded chicken and 1 cup of cheese until the mixture is creamy.
4. Add the remaining cheese over the pasta and cover the skillet with the lid for 2 minutes to melt the cheese.
5. To pack for lunch, preheat the thermos container and fill it with about 1 ½ cups of salsa verde pasta. Close the thermos container and pack it into a lunch bag with your choice of snacks.
6. Include an ice pack to keep the other ingredients chilled.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Tip 2: You can freeze this dish by allowing it to cool completely and then placing it in freezer-safe containers.
• Tip 3: Pair with a simple side salad or garlic bread to round out your meal.
• Tip 4: Adjust the spice level by adding diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper.
• Tip 5: Swap out the chicken for sautéed vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to make it vegetarian-friendly.

Previous PostOne Pot Cajun Ranch Chicken Pasta

Next Post Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Vegetable Rice Bowls

Meet Jade Summer

Reliability is just as important as flavor. I am the one double checking measurements and testing temperatures. I cooked this recipe repeatedly, troubleshooting any tricky parts, so you can trust that it will turn out perfectly the very first time you try it.