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Southwest Chicken Alfredo

Creamy Southwest Chicken Alfredo for Cozy Family Dinners

This Southwest Chicken Alfredo is a quick and creamy pasta dish perfect for family dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Southwest
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Penne Pasta Substitute with short-cut pasta like rotini or farfalle.
For the Chicken
  • 2 cups Chicken Breasts Cut into strips for even cooking.
  • 1 tablespoon Honey Adds sweetness; maple syrup can be a substitute.
  • 1 Chili Powder Part of a spice blend for seasoning.
  • 1 Cumin Part of a spice blend for seasoning.
  • 1 Oregano Part of a spice blend for seasoning.
  • 1 Paprika Part of a spice blend for seasoning.
  • 1 Black Pepper Part of a spice blend for seasoning.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Part of a spice blend for seasoning.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Part of a spice blend for seasoning.
For the Sauce
  • 1 can Diced Tomatoes Can substitute with crushed tomatoes.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Creates a rich, creamy texture.
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese A Mexican cheese blend is an alternative.
  • 1 medium Onion Use yellow, white, or sweet onions.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh minced garlic is recommended.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Choose salted or unsalted.
For Cooking
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can substitute with canola or avocado oil.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • Colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the Seasoning: Combine chili powder, cumin, oregano, paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne in a small bowl and set aside.
  2. Season the Chicken: Toss chicken strips in a bowl with honey and half of the seasoning blend. Marinate for about 10 minutes.
  3. Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water and cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes.
  4. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet, add marinated chicken, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
  5. Sauté the Onions: In the same skillet, reduce heat and add butter and diced onions. Sauté until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
  6. Add Garlic and Tomatoes: Stir in minced garlic and cook for a minute. Then add diced tomatoes and remaining seasoning. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  7. Incorporate the Cream: Whisk in heavy cream and let simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken.
  8. Combine Chicken and Cheese: Add cooked chicken and cheddar cheese to the skillet, stirring until cheese melts.
  9. Toss the Pasta: Add cooked penne pasta, gently toss to coat with sauce, and let sit for about 2 minutes.
  10. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 40gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream to restore creaminess.

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