This Southwest Alfredo Penne Pasta is a cozy, creamy dish with a twist! It brings together zesty Southwest flavors with a rich, cheesy Alfredo sauce that hugs every penne piece.
Who knew pasta could be so exciting? I love to top it with a sprinkle of cilantro or some spicy peppers for that extra kick. It’s a bowl of happiness, just waiting to be enjoyed!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This shape works great with the creamy sauce, but feel free to swap it for fusilli or farfalle if you have them on hand. They will hold the sauce well too!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended for their tenderness. If you’re looking for a quicker option, pre-cooked chicken from the store can save you time. You can also use canned beans or tofu for a vegetarian twist!
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika give the dish its southwest flair. If you don’t have these, taco seasoning can be a good substitute. For a milder flavor, skip the chili powder.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even Greek yogurt, but keep in mind it may alter the texture a bit.
Salsa: Use your favorite salsa here! If you’re feeling adventurous, a homemade salsa can add a fresh element. Opt for mild salsa if you prefer less heat.
How Can You Perfectly Cook Chicken for This Dish?
Cooking the chicken right is essential for a delicious Southwest Alfredo. Here’s how to do it well:
- Keep the heat at medium-high to get a nice sear without drying it out.
- Season and let the chicken sit for a minute before adding it to the skillet. This helps build flavor.
- Cook until the chicken is no longer pink in the center. Use a meat thermometer if you want to be precise; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet before making the sauce. This prevents overcooking and keeps it juicy.
Following these simple steps will ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked and enhances the flavor of your pasta dish! Enjoy your cooking!
Southwest Alfredo Penne Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup frozen or fresh corn kernels
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup salsa (mild or medium heat, your choice)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus extra for garnish
- Optional: sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Southwest Alfredo Penne Pasta can be prepared in about 30 minutes! It includes around 10 minutes for prep, and about 20 minutes for cooking. A perfect quick dinner option for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of water and cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once it’s cooked, drain it and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. While the oil is heating, season your chicken pieces with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it sit aside.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet you used for the chicken, add the diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté them for about 4-5 minutes until they become soft. Then, stir in the minced garlic and corn, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until everything is fragrant.
4. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium-low. Pour in the heavy cream, then add the grated Parmesan cheese and salsa. Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Combine It All:
Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Mix in the cooked penne pasta and the chopped cilantro, ensuring everything is well combined and coated in the creamy sauce.
6. Season and Serve:
Take a taste of your pasta and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, and any optional heat, like jalapeños or cayenne pepper, if you wish. Serve the Southwest Alfredo Penne Pasta hot, garnished with extra chopped cilantro for a fresh touch!
Enjoy your creamy, zesty Southwest Alfredo Penne Pasta! It’s a comforting dish that’s bursting with flavor!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is perfect for this dish, you can substitute it with other shapes like rotini or farfalle. Just keep an eye on the cooking times, as they may vary.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and replace it with black beans or sautéed vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms. You could also add extra corn for more texture!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to return creaminess if needed.
Can I Prep This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time, then store them separately in the fridge. Just add the pasta and mix everything together when you’re ready to serve!