Introduction
Indulge in a delightful culinary experience with this creamy chicken pasta dish that combines the bold flavors of taco seasoning with a rich sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is simple to prepare and promises to satisfy the whole family. With tender chicken breasts, hearty penne pasta, and a luscious cheese sauce, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
– 3 teaspoons taco seasoning
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon salted butter
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1/2 cup Colby Jack cheese
– 10-ounce can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 8 ounces penne pasta
– 2 to 3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Enjoy this dish as a comforting meal for any occasion, complete with the vibrant flavors of cilantro and the warming touch of chili. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or warm bread for a complete dining experience.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts evenly with the taco seasoning. Make sure to coat all sides.
Step 3: Heat the Skillet
In a medium skillet over medium heat, heat the vegetable oil until it starts to sizzle.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for approximately 6 minutes on each side, or until thoroughly cooked. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts.
Step 5: Keep Chicken Warm
Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it with foil or a lid to keep warm.
Step 6: Melt the Butter
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the salted butter.
Step 7: Add the Cream
Slowly pour in the heavy whipping cream while whisking continuously. Allow it to cook for about 2 minutes while stirring.
Step 8: Incorporate Cheese and Tomatoes
Sprinkle in the Colby Jack cheese and add the Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens, approximately 5 to 8 minutes.
Step 9: Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked and drained penne pasta to the skillet. Stir well to combine it with the sauce.
Step 10: Add Chicken to Pasta
Slice the cooked chicken into 1/2-inch strips and add them to the skillet. Stir to incorporate the chicken with the pasta and sauce evenly.
Step 11: Garnish and Serve
Garnish the dish with the chopped fresh cilantro leaves before serving.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a side salad or tortilla chips.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Spiciness Adjustment
If you prefer a milder dish, use less taco seasoning or choose a mild version.
Variations
Feel free to add vegetables such as bell peppers or onions for added flavor and nutrition.
Cook techniques
Cooking Pasta
To cook penne pasta, bring a pot of water to a boil, add salt, and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Seasoning Chicken
Evenly coat both sides of the chicken breasts with taco seasoning to infuse flavor before cooking.
Searing Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat until it begins to shimmer, then add seasoned chicken breasts. Sear for about 6 minutes on each side until they reach a safe internal temperature.
Melted Butter and Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, melt salted butter over medium heat, then gradually whisk in heavy whipping cream, creating a creamy sauce that thickens with gentle cooking.
Incorporating Cheese and Tomatoes
Once the cream is warmed, add Colby Jack cheese and Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, stirring until the cheese melts and the flavors meld, resulting in a thickened sauce.
Combining Ingredients
Add cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing it with the sauce. Then, slice the cooked chicken and mix it in to combine all components thoroughly.
Garnishing
Finish the dish by sprinkling chopped fresh cilantro leaves over the top for added flavor and presentation.
FAQ
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, feel free to substitute with your preferred cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for different flavors.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
You can use low-fat cream or reduced-fat cheese to create a lighter version of the sauce.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables to complement the flavors.
Can I add vegetables to the recipe?
Yes, you can add vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or spinach for additional nutrition and flavor. Cook them alongside the chicken for best results.
Can leftovers be stored?
Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
This creamy Taco Chicken Pasta is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings together seasoned chicken, a rich sauce, and perfectly cooked penne. The addition of fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness, making this dish not only satisfying but also vibrant. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to impress family and friends.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spicy Shrimp Tacos
Combine shrimp with taco seasoning and serve in corn tortillas topped with cabbage slaw and avocado.
Cheesy Chicken Quesadillas
Use the seasoned chicken and cheese to create delicious quesadillas, served with salsa on the side.
BBQ Chicken Pasta Bake
Swap taco seasoning for barbecue sauce and mix with pasta and cheese for a smoky baked dish.
Vegetable Enchiladas
Fill corn tortillas with a mix of sautéed vegetables and cheese, then cover with enchilada sauce and bake.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Mix cooked rice with seasoned chicken, tomatoes, and cheese, then stuff into bell peppers and bake.
Creamy Taco Soup
Combine taco seasoned chicken, Rotel, and cream with beans and corn for a hearty soup option.
