Mexican Chicken Pasta

Mexican Chicken Pasta is a flavor-packed fusion dish that combines the bold, zesty flavors of Mexican cuisine with the comforting heartiness of pasta. Juicy, seasoned chicken is paired with al dente pasta, fresh vegetables, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s bursting with smoky spices, tangy lime, and just the right amount of heat. This one-pot recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. Whether you’re a pasta lover or a fan of Tex-Mex flavors, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite in your rotation. Get ready to elevate your pasta game with a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this Mexican Chicken Pasta:

1. Bold Mexican Flavors: A blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, and lime juice gives this pasta a vibrant, irresistible taste.
2. Creamy and Cheesy: The creamy sauce, enriched with cheddar and cream cheese, creates the perfect balance of richness and zest.
3. One-Pot Wonder: Save time on cleanup by cooking everything in a single pot.
4. Customizable: Easily adjust the spice level or swap out ingredients to suit your preferences.
5. Perfect for Families: This dish is kid-friendly, while still being flavorful enough to satisfy adults.
6. Great for Leftovers: Reheat the next day for a quick and satisfying lunch.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Serving Size: 1 generous bowl

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 470
• Carbohydrates: 41g
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 4g

Ingredients

To make this vibrant Mexican Chicken Pasta, you’ll need:

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340 g) penne or rigatoni pasta (or any short pasta shape)
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1 cup corn kernels (frozen, canned, or fresh)
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
• ½ cup black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional, for extra heat)

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 teaspoon taco seasoning (or extra chili powder and cumin if preferred)
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

For Garnish:

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Diced avocado
• Lime wedges
• Extra shredded cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Rub the spice mixture all over the diced chicken pieces.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

3. Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced bell peppers, jalapeño, and corn. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are slightly softened.

Step 3: Add Pasta and Broth

4. Combine Ingredients: Add the pasta, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and black beans to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir everything together to ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
5. Simmer the Pasta: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid. Let the pasta cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 4: Make It Cheesy and Creamy

6. Stir in the Cream and Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream, cream cheese, shredded cheddar, taco seasoning, and lime juice. Continue stirring until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
7. Return the Chicken: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 more minutes to warm through and allow the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

8. Plate and Garnish: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, lime wedges, and extra shredded cheese if desired.

Ingredient Background

Pasta:

Penne or rigatoni works best for this recipe as their ridges hold onto the sauce, but any short pasta like fusilli or farfalle can be used.

Chicken:

Chicken breast is lean and cooks quickly, but chicken thighs can be used for a juicier alternative.

Spices:

The combination of chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder gives this dish its signature Mexican-inspired flavor. For a shortcut, use pre-made taco seasoning.

Cheese:

Cheddar cheese adds sharpness, while cream cheese provides creaminess and a velvety texture. Monterey Jack or pepper jack can also be used for a different flavor profile.

Lime Juice:

Fresh lime juice brightens up the dish, balancing the richness of the cheese and cream.

Technique Tips

1. Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Sear the chicken just until it’s cooked through to keep it tender and juicy.
2. Stir the Pasta Frequently: To prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the skillet, stir it occasionally as it cooks.
3. Adjust the Heat Level: Remove the seeds from the jalapeño for a milder dish, or leave them in for extra spice.
4. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lime juice, cilantro, and diced vegetables enhance the flavor and add brightness to the dish.
5. Reserve Pasta Water: If the sauce becomes too thick, a splash of reserved pasta water can help thin it out while keeping it creamy.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Serve the pasta in individual cast-iron skillets for a rustic, restaurant-style presentation.
• Top with crushed tortilla chips for added crunch and a Tex-Mex flair.
• Create a topping bar with sour cream, salsa, guacamole, and extra jalapeños for a DIY garnish experience.
• For a casserole-style dish, transfer the pasta to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden.

Additional Tips for Success

• Add Protein Variety: Swap the chicken for shrimp, ground beef, or shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick variation.
• Boost Veggies: Add zucchini, spinach, or diced tomatoes for an extra dose of nutrients.
• Make It Smokier: Use chipotle powder or smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor.
• Double the Batch: This recipe is great for meal prep—make a double batch and freeze portions for busy days.

Recipe Variations

Vegetarian Mexican Pasta:

Skip the chicken and add more beans, vegetables (like mushrooms and zucchini), and roasted poblano peppers for a hearty vegetarian version.

Spicy Kick:

Add diced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce or increase the cayenne for a fiery version.

Dairy-Free Version:

Use coconut cream or cashew cream in place of heavy cream, and substitute the cheese with a dairy-free alternative.

Low-Carb Option:

Replace the pasta with spiralized zucchini or cooked spaghetti squash.

Mexican Lasagna Twist:

Layer the pasta, chicken, sauce, and cheese in a baking dish and bake it lasagna-style.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing:

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce.

Refrigeration:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for added fiber and protein.
• Swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt or reduced-fat sour cream for a lighter sauce.
• Load up on veggies like spinach, zucchini, or kale for extra nutrients.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Family Dinner: Pair with a simple green salad and warm cornbread for a complete meal.
• Potluck Dish: Bring it to gatherings in a slow cooker to keep it warm and easy to serve.
• Weeknight Treat: Serve with tortilla chips or garlic bread for dipping.
• Party Favorite: Add a side of Mexican street corn or queso dip for a crowd-pleasing spread.

Special Equipment

• Large, deep skillet or Dutch oven for one-pot cooking.
• Wooden spoon for stirring.
• Box grater for shredding cheese.
• Citrus juicer for fresh lime juice.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes! Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and can be added in Step 7.

2. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use gluten-free pasta, and double-check that your taco seasoning is gluten-free.

3. Is this dish spicy?
It has a mild kick, but you can control the spice level by adjusting the cayenne, jalapeño, and taco seasoning.

4. Can I make this pasta ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best served fresh. If reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to keep the sauce creamy.

5. Can I omit the cream cheese?
You can, but the sauce will be less creamy. Replace it with extra cheddar or a dollop of sour cream.

6. Can I add other cheeses?
Definitely! Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend all work well.

7. What can I use instead of lime juice?
Lemon juice works as a substitute, but lime is recommended for its distinct flavor.

8. How do I prevent the pasta from overcooking?
Cook the pasta just until al dente and serve immediately. If storing, stop cooking a minute early to prevent mushiness.

Conclusion

Mexican Chicken Pasta is a one-pot masterpiece that brings together bold, zesty flavors and creamy comfort. Packed with tender chicken, fresh veggies, and a cheesy sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or meal prep. With its versatility and ease, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Try it tonight and savor the fusion of Mexican and pasta perfection!

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