This Chicken Tex Mex Pasta is a fun twist on your regular pasta dish! It’s packed with tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and a zesty sauce that brings all the flavors together.
You’ll love how quick and easy it is to whip up, making it perfect for busy nights. I always add a sprinkle of cheese on top, because who can say no to extra cheese? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This pasta holds up well with creamy sauces. If you don’t have penne, you can use fusilli or even bow tie pasta as good alternatives.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great, but if you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut. Just shred it and toss it in at the end to warm it through.
Olive Oil: Pure olive oil works, but you can substitute it with avocado oil or vegetable oil if you prefer. They will still provide good flavor and cooking properties.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option. The sauce will be a bit thinner, but still delicious!
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for extra flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend can be equally tasty.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking the chicken so it’s evenly browned and juicy can feel tricky. Here’s how to nail it every time:
- Cut the chicken into even bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! If it’s crowded, the chicken will steam instead of brown. You can do it in batches if needed.
- Let the chicken sit without stirring for a couple of minutes, then flip. This helps develop a nice crust.
- Always check that the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside, about 6-8 minutes should do it.
How to Make Chicken Tex Mex Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz penne pasta
For the Chicken and Veggies:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
For Seasoning:
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious Chicken Tex Mex Pasta will take about 30 minutes in total: 10 minutes for preparation and about 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and easy dish perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente—this usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
2. Sautéing the Chicken:
In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, chili powder, paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper if you like some heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Cooking the Vegetables:
In the same pan, add a bit more olive oil if necessary, then toss in the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onion turns translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it releases a lovely aroma.
4. Adding More Flavor:
Stir in the diced red bell pepper, diced tomatoes, and sliced black olives. Cook the mixture for about 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables soften and meld together.
5. Making the Creamy Sauce:
Now, reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine everything. Add the shredded cheddar cheese to this mixture, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Bringing It All Together:
Return the cooked chicken to the pan, and then add the penne pasta. Toss everything together gently so that the creamy Tex Mex sauce coats the pasta and chicken nicely. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
7. Serving Up:
Transfer your delicious Chicken Tex Mex Pasta to a serving dish. Sprinkle some extra cheddar cheese on top, and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a lovely touch. Serve hot and enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead of Penne?
Absolutely! Whole wheat penne is a great option for added fiber and nutrients. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary slightly from regular pasta.
Can I Substitute Chicken with Another Protein?
Yes, you can! Try using diced turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Adjust cooking times based on the protein you choose, especially if using shrimp or tofu, as they cook faster than chicken.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you love heat, you can add more cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the mix. You could also consider topping the dish with hot sauce before serving for an extra kick!
Is It Possible to Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Definitely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative, and use dairy-free cheese or simply skip the cheese altogether. Your dish will still be creamy and flavorful!