One Pan Southwest Chicken Alfredo Penne
Are you ready to spice up your dinner routine with a dish that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make? Introducing One Pan Southwest Chicken Alfredo Penne, a creamy and flavorful pasta dish that brings a taste of the Southwest right to your kitchen. This one-pan wonder is packed with tender chicken, zesty taco seasoning, and a delightful blend of veggies, making it a complete meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal cleanup, you’ll have more time to enjoy the comfort of a home-cooked meal without the hassle. Let’s dive into the details of this scrumptious recipe!
Why Cooks Rave About It
The beauty of One Pan Southwest Chicken Alfredo Penne lies in its simplicity and bold flavors. With just one pan required, it’s a breeze to prepare, and the cleanup is a snap! Cooks love how the creamy Alfredo sauce complements the spicy taco seasoning, creating a delightful fusion of flavors that everyone at the dinner table will rave about. Plus, the addition of corn, black beans, and diced tomatoes adds a healthy dose of nutrients and color, making this dish not only tasty but nutritious as well.
Gather These Ingredients
Before you start cooking, let’s make sure you have everything you need. Here’s what you’ll gather for your One Pan Southwest Chicken Alfredo Penne:
- 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
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup low sodium chicken broth
- 8 ounces dry penne pasta (1 box)
- 1 ounce taco seasoning (1 packet)
- 7 ounces canned corn (about 1 can, drained and rinsed)
- 7 ounces canned black beans (about 1 can, drained and rinsed)
- 7 ounces canned diced tomatoes (about 1 can, drained and rinsed)
- 1 cup shredded or grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Equipment at a Glance
To whip up this delicious dish, you’ll need a few basic kitchen items. Here’s what you should have on hand:
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
One Pan Southwest Chicken Alfredo Penne — Do This Next
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your One Pan Southwest Chicken Alfredo Penne:
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken breasts and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Add Garlic
Once the chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt.
Step 3: Combine the Liquids
Pour in the heavy cream and low sodium chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Add the Pasta and Seasoning
Add the dry penne pasta and taco seasoning to the skillet. Stir well to ensure the pasta is coated in the creamy sauce. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Step 5: Stir in the Veggies
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the drained corn, black beans, and diced tomatoes. Mix well and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
Step 6: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded or grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and stir until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit for a minute. Serve your One Pan Southwest Chicken Alfredo Penne hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro if desired. Enjoy your flavorful creation!
How to Make It Lighter
If you’re looking to lighten up this dish without sacrificing flavor, consider these tweaks:
- Substitute the heavy cream with a lighter alternative like half-and-half or Greek yogurt.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free penne pasta for a healthier option.
- Incorporate more veggies such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrients.
- Reduce the amount of cheese or use a lower-fat cheese option.
Mistakes Even Pros Make
Even seasoned cooks can stumble in the kitchen. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making your One Pan Southwest Chicken Alfredo Penne:
- Overcooking the chicken can lead to dryness. Always cook until just done.
- Not stirring the pasta frequently can cause it to stick together.
- Using high sodium chicken broth can overpower the dish. Opt for low sodium.
- Forgetting to drain the canned ingredients can add excess liquid to the dish.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Planning ahead? Here’s how to make your One Pan Southwest Chicken Alfredo Penne easier for busy days:
- Cook the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Store separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Assemble the dish but leave out the cheese until you’re ready to serve. This helps maintain the creamy texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if it appears dry.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne works wonderfully, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli or rotini.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables, such as bell peppers and zucchini, for a delicious vegetarian version of this dish.
How can I spice it up more?
If you love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the taco seasoning for an extra kick!
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or some homemade garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
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Final Bite
In just a few simple steps, you’ve created a hearty and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. The One Pan Southwest Chicken Alfredo Penne is perfect for those nights when you want a delicious homemade dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant flavors, this dish is a delightful addition to your recipe repertoire. So gather your ingredients, fire up that skillet, and treat yourself to a bowl of comfort that’s bursting with flavor!
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One Pan Southwest Chicken Alfredo Penne
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken breasts and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once the chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt.
- Pour in the heavy cream and low sodium chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add the dry penne pasta and taco seasoning to the skillet. Stir well to ensure the pasta is coated in the creamy sauce. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the drained corn, black beans, and diced tomatoes. Mix well and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Sprinkle the shredded or grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and stir until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit for a minute. Serve your One Pan Southwest Chicken Alfredo Penne hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro if desired. Enjoy your flavorful creation!
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free penne pasta for a healthier option.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
