Cheesy Chicken Taco Pasta
A delicious one-pot meal featuring pasta, chicken, and a cheesy taco-inspired sauce.
Equipment
- Large deep skillet
- Saute pan
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
Instructions
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You will know it is ready when the oil shimmers a bit. This step helps to cook the chicken evenly and adds a delicious flavor base. Just be careful not to let it smoke.
- Toss diced onions into the pot and sauté them until they are soft and translucent, about five to seven minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Stir in the sliced chicken breasts and sprinkle taco seasoning over the top. Cook until the chicken is browned and no longer pink inside, about eight to ten minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure all sides are cooked properly.
- Mix in the bowtie pasta followed by the chicken broth. You will see it bubbling as the pasta starts soaking up the yummy chicken flavor. Stir well to avoid sticking.
- Once the pasta is just about done, pour in the half and half. The mixture should become creamy and smooth. Mix it well; if it seems too thick, add a bit more broth.
- Toss in the shredded cheddar-jack cheese and stir until it melts completely. The cheese should become gooey and delicious. Add the cheese gradually to prevent clumping.
- After the cheese has melted, squeeze in the juice from the limes and mix well. This zesty lime will enhance the flavors significantly.
- Finally, sprinkle diced Roma tomatoes and fresh parsley on top for color and freshness. You can substitute with cilantro or green onions if you prefer. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Store leftover chicken taco pasta in an airtight container for 4-5 days in the fridge. Freeze for up to 4 months and thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Stir the pasta at least once while cooking to prevent sticking. Add a splash of milk when reheating to keep the sauce creamy. Use freshly grated cheese for better melting.
When reheating, add a splash of milk to help maintain the creamy texture.
Top with fresh diced tomatoes and green onions. Serve with a dollop of sour cream. Pair it with a black bean and corn salad.
Replace bowtie pasta with rotini or ziti. Use ground turkey instead of chicken. Add bell peppers or corn for extra veggies.
For the best melting results, use freshly grated cheese. If you do not have half and half, you can also use milk or heavy cream.