A rich and creamy blend of flavors comes together when you take a bite of Southwest Chicken Alfredo. This delightful recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a quick but satisfying meal option. The combination of seasoned chicken, hearty pasta, and a luscious creamy sauce works beautifully, offering a comforting dish that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings with family. It can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for easy reheating. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, the Southwest Chicken Alfredo is a delicious choice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The creamy texture of the sauce perfectly coats the penne pasta, creating a comforting feel.
- Seasoned chicken strips add a flavorful punch that elevates the dish.
- Fresh cilantro provides a bright finish that complements the rich sauce.
- Quick to prepare, this meal is ready in about 30 minutes.
What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious dish:
For the Pasta
- 1/2 lb. penne pasta
For the Chicken
- 1 lb. chicken breasts, cut into 1" strips
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 (15 oz.) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
For Seasoning
- 1 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp cayenne
For Garnish
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped
Use low-fat cream for a lighter version.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Chicken: substitute with shrimp or tofu
- Heavy cream: swap for evaporated milk
- Cheddar cheese: use a Mexican blend cheese
- Cilantro: replace with parsley for a milder flavor
How to Make It
Follow these easy steps to whip up your Southwest Chicken Alfredo.
Mix the seasonings
In a small bowl, mix the southwest seasoning blend together.
Season the chicken
Add cut chicken to a large bowl and drizzle in honey and half of the seasonings. Toss to combine.
Boil the pasta
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook penne pasta according to package instructions for al dente. When done, drain and set aside.
Cook the chicken
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add seasoned chicken and cook for a few minutes on each side until cooked through. When nice and golden, transfer chicken to a plate.
Sauté the onions
Add diced onion and butter to the same skillet you cooked the chicken in over medium heat. Cook for a few minutes until tender. Add garlic and cook another minute.
Incorporate tomatoes and sauce
Add diced tomatoes and the remaining seasoning and bring to a low simmer. Slowly pour in heavy cream while stirring until fully incorporated. Bring to a nice simmer.
Combine everything
Add chicken back to the skillet. Sprinkle in cheddar cheese and stir to combine. Add penne pasta to the sauce and toss to combine. Remove pasta from heat and let sit a few minutes.
Final touches
When done, stir pasta again to fully coat in sauce and sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Enjoy!
How to Store It
Fridge: store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: no, cream sauce does not freeze well.
Reheat: microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Cook the chicken until golden brown for added flavor.
- Allow the pasta to sit in the sauce to absorb more flavor.
- Use fresh cilantro just before serving to maintain its flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to suit your spice preference.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Pair with a fresh garden salad to balance the richness.
- Enjoy on a cozy night in or as a comforting family dinner.
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