One Pan Southwest Chicken Alfredo Penne

There’s something incredibly comforting about a hearty meal that comes together in just one pan. That is exactly what you get with One Pan Southwest Chicken Alfredo Penne. I remember the first time I decided to try this dish; it was a busy weeknight, and the last thing I wanted was a messy kitchen post-dinner. The thought of a creamy, flavorful pasta dish made me drool, and the fact that I could prepare it all in one pan was a game changer. With tender pieces of chicken, vibrant corn, and zesty taco seasoning, every bite felt like a fiesta! It quickly became a go-to recipe for my family, providing all the comfort of creamy pasta with the added flair of southwestern flavors.

Recipe Ingredients for One Pan Southwest Chicken Alfredo Penne

Creating a delightful dish starts with the right ingredients. In the One Pan Southwest Chicken Alfredo Penne, every component plays a vital role in bringing the flavors together. From the rich heavy cream that forms the base of the sauce to the taco seasoning that gives it that southwestern kick, these ingredients complement each other beautifully.

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup low sodium chicken broth
• 8 ounces dry penne pasta (½ box)
• 1 ounce taco seasoning (1 packet)
• 7 ounces canned corn (about ½ can, drained and rinsed)
• 7 ounces canned black beans (about ½ can, drained and rinsed)
• 7 ounces canned diced tomatoes (about ½ can, drained and rinsed)
• ½ cup shredded or grated Parmesan cheese
• Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Putting Together One Pan Southwest Chicken Alfredo Penne

Let’s dive into the process of making this scrumptious dish! It’s really straightforward, and I’m excited to walk you through each step. The best part? Less time cleaning up means more time enjoying your meal!

1. Start by heating the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. You want the oil to shimmer, which indicates it’s hot enough for cooking.
2. Next, toss in the chicken cubes. Cook until they’re browned on each side for about 1 to 2 minutes. You don’t have to worry about cooking them completely through just yet, as they will finish cooking later.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and continue cooking for an additional minute. The aroma will be fantastic as it mingles with the chicken.
4. Now, pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and taco seasoning. Give it a good stir, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Next, add in the penne pasta and bring the mixture to a light boil, stirring occasionally. Be attentive here, as the pasta will start absorbing the flavors.
6. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Now, add the canned corn, black beans, and diced tomatoes. Stir everything together and cover the skillet.
7. Allow it to cook for about 20 minutes or until the pasta is al dente. You’ll want to check occasionally and stir to prevent sticking.
8. Just before serving, stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, giving it that creamy texture.
9. Finally, garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley for that extra pop of flavor. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful taste of your One Pan Southwest Chicken Alfredo Penne.

Ways to Customize

Understanding how to customize your dish can make cooking an even more enjoyable experience. Here are some exciting ways to make One Pan Southwest Chicken Alfredo Penne your own!

• Spice it Up: Add some diced jalapeños for extra heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with mushrooms or your favorite vegetables.
• Cheese Variation: Try using different types of cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack for a twist.
• Beans Choice: Swap black beans for chickpeas or kidney beans depending on your preference.
• Extra Greens: Toss in some spinach or kale for added nutrients.
• Make it Creamy: For a richer flavor, add more cream or mix in a bit of cream cheese.

Serve This One Pan Southwest Chicken Alfredo Penne With

When it comes to serving, the One Pan Southwest Chicken Alfredo Penne can be paired with various options that complement its rich flavors.

• Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette balances the creaminess of the dish.
• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce!
• Grilled Vegetables: Roasted zucchini or bell peppers add a lovely crunch.
• Seasonal Fruits: Serve with refreshing fruits like watermelon or cantaloupe during the warmer months.
• Family Gatherings: This dish is sure to please a crowd, making it ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or gatherings.
• Leftover Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

FAQ

Conclusion

The One Pan Southwest Chicken Alfredo Penne is truly a delight, combining creamy pasta with the vibrant flavors of the Southwest. Its ease of preparation and delicious taste makes it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or gatherings with family and friends. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; you’ll find it quickly becomes a family favorite that you’ll look forward to making time and again!

One Pan Southwest Chicken Alfredo Penne

The ultimate comfort food is here! This One Pan Southwest Chicken Alfredo Penne is creamy, zesty, and incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines tender chicken, flavorful spices, and pasta into one satisfying meal. Make it tonight and enjoy a delicious family dinner!

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 570

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts chicken cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• Kosher salt to taste
• freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1.5 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup low sodium chicken broth
• 8 ounces dry penne pasta (½ box)
• 1 ounce taco seasoning (1 packet)
• 7 ounces canned corn (about ½ can, drained and rinsed)
• 7 ounces canned black beans (about ½ can, drained and rinsed)
• 7 ounces canned diced tomatoes (about ½ can, drained and rinsed)
• 0.5 cup shredded or grated Parmesan cheese
• Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Grater
• Cutting Board
• Large Pot
• Wooden Spoon
• Skillet

Method

 

1. Heat the olive oil over medium high heat in a large skillet.
2. Toss in the chicken cubes and brown each side for about 1-2 minutes. You don't have to cook the chicken completely through, but enough so they are almost cooked.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and continue cooking for another minute.
4. Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and taco seasoning, and season with Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir to combine.
5. Add the dry penne pasta and bring to a light boil, stirring occasionally.
6. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and add in canned corn, black beans, and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine. Cover and allow to cook for about 20 minutes, or until pasta is al dente.
7. Just before serving, stir in your Parmesan cheese and garnish with either chopped cilantro or parsley.

Notes

• Drain and rinse: the corn and black beans before using. They can be quite salty if not rinsed.
• Fresh or frozen: You can also use frozen or fresh corn.
• Bean variation: I like to make this with black beans, but red kidney beans would work great too.

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Meet Delilah Moon

We eat with our eyes first, and I strive to capture the energy of our food through photography. I am deeply involved in the cooking process, styling our dishes to show you exactly how appetizing they can be. I hope this recipe inspires you to get creative and confident in your own kitchen.