This Chicken Tex Mex Pasta is a fun and zesty dish loaded with juicy chicken, colorful peppers, and a burst of spices! It’s easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights.
You really can’t go wrong with pasta, right? I love how this dish combines good old pasta with Tex Mex flavors—it’s like a fiesta on your plate! 🌮🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This is a great choice as its shape holds the sauce well. If you prefer, you can substitute with bowtie pasta or fusilli for a fun twist.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here, but you can use thighs for more flavor. Alternatively, turkey or even cooked shrimp works too!
Spices: Ground cumin and smoked paprika are what give this dish its Tex Mex flair. If you’re out, try taco seasoning as a quick replacement. Adjust chili powder to your heat preference—it’s easy to add more later!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, use half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Just keep an eye on the consistency.
Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice, but you could mix it up with pepper jack for a spicy kick. A Tex Mex cheese blend enhances flavor too.
How Can I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken properly is key to a delicious dish. Here’s how to ensure it’s juicy and flavorful:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps to sear it quickly, locking in moisture.
- Cook the chicken pieces for 5-7 minutes until they are browned on the outside and no longer pink inside. Cut one piece open to check!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed, to avoid steaming.
How to Make Chicken Tex Mex Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 300 grams penne pasta
For the Chicken and Vegetables:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
For the Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes, chopped)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a Tex Mex blend)
For Garnishing:
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (for extra heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Tex Mex Pasta takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping ingredients and 20 minutes cooking everything to perfection. It’s a quick and satisfying meal for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (cooked but still slightly firm). Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until it is browned and completely cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed. Then, toss in the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are softened and fragrant.
4. Add the Spices:
Now, sprinkle in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and cook for about 1 minute to let the spices become aromatic.
5. Mix in the Tomatoes:
Add the canned (or fresh) diced tomatoes into the skillet. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and combine with the spices.
6. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Reduce the heat, then pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes until it starts to thicken up a bit.
7. Add the Cheese:
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and continue mixing until it melts completely and becomes creamy.
8. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well to combine. Then, add the drained pasta, tossing everything together to coat the pasta in that delicious sauce.
9. Heat and Serve:
Let everything cook on low heat for another 2 minutes to let the flavors meld. Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley. Enjoy your warm and flavorful Chicken Tex Mex Pasta!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead of Penne?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta works well and adds more fiber to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, as it might take a little longer to cook.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. Coconut milk is a great dairy-free option, but keep an eye on the consistency when adding it to the sauce.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Definitely! Substitute the chicken with your favorite protein like tofu or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for cooking. The flavor will still be delicious!