Southwest Chicken Alfredo – Creamy Pasta with Bold Flavors

There’s nothing quite like a plate of creamy, flavorful pasta to satisfy your cravings, and Southwest Chicken Alfredo takes the classic Alfredo sauce to a bold new level. Infused with smoky, spicy southwest seasonings and paired with tender chicken, al dente penne, and gooey cheddar cheese, this dish is a fusion of comfort and excitement.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress guests, this recipe combines the rich creaminess of Alfredo with the vibrant, spicy kick of southwest cuisine. It’s hearty, satisfying, and easy to customize with your favorite toppings or vegetables.

In just under an hour, you’ll have a restaurant-quality pasta dish ready to serve. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe irresistible and why it should earn a spot in your meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love Southwest Chicken Alfredo

1. Bold Flavors

Southwest spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika give this dish a smoky, spicy kick that pairs perfectly with creamy Alfredo sauce.

2. Rich and Creamy

The heavy cream and cheddar cheese create a luxurious, velvety sauce that clings to every bite of pasta.

3. Hearty and Satisfying

With tender chicken, hearty penne, and a rich sauce, this dish is a complete, filling meal.

4. Customizable

Easily adapt the recipe by adding bell peppers, corn, black beans, or jalapeños for even more flavor and texture.

5. Perfect for Any Occasion

From cozy family dinners to hosting friends, Southwest Chicken Alfredo is a versatile dish that always impresses.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy, spicy pasta dish:

The Pasta and Chicken:

• ½ lb penne pasta: Holds the sauce beautifully.
• 1 lb chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch strips): The protein base for the dish.
• 1 tablespoon honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the spices.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For cooking the chicken to golden perfection.

The Sauce:

• 1 cup onion (chopped): Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• 4 garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the sauce with aromatic flavor.
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes: Adds tangy sweetness and texture.
• 1 cup heavy cream: The base of the creamy Alfredo sauce.
• 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese (shredded): Melts into the sauce for a gooey, cheesy finish.
• 1 tablespoon butter: Enhances the richness of the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons cilantro (chopped): Adds a fresh, herbaceous garnish.

The Southwest Seasoning:

• 1 ½ teaspoons chili powder
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper

Preparation Time and Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Southwest Seasoning

1. In a small bowl, combine all the spices for the southwest seasoning: chili powder, cumin, oregano, paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. Mix well and set aside.

2: Season the Chicken

1. Place the chicken strips in a large bowl.
2. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with half of the southwest seasoning. Toss to coat the chicken evenly.

3: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions for al dente. Drain and set aside.

4: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked.
3. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

5: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

6: Create the Sauce

1. Add the diced tomatoes and the remaining southwest seasoning to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
2. Gradually pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously. Let the mixture simmer gently until slightly thickened.

7: Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with its juices.
2. Sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
3. Add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce and toss to coat thoroughly.

8: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the skillet from heat and let the pasta sit for a few minutes to absorb the sauce.
2. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve

Southwest Chicken Alfredo is a complete meal on its own, but you can enhance it with some delicious sides:

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for a healthy addition.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado complements the southwest flavors beautifully.

Tips for Perfect Southwest Chicken Alfredo

1. Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cooking the chicken just until done ensures it stays juicy and tender.
2. Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents, which can affect the sauce’s texture.
3. Use Heavy Cream: For the creamiest sauce, stick with heavy cream instead of milk or light cream.
4. Adjust the Spice Level: Add more cayenne pepper for extra heat or reduce it for a milder dish.
5. Save Pasta Water: If the sauce feels too thick, a splash of reserved pasta water can help loosen it.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or black beans.
• Seafood Twist: Use shrimp instead of chicken for a delicious seafood Alfredo.
• Extra Veggies: Add corn, spinach, or roasted poblano peppers for more flavor and texture.
• Cheese Swap: Try Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a different cheesy profile.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-intolerant diners.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce.

FAQ

Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
A: Yes, rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken works well. Add it to the sauce during the final steps to heat through.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta in advance. Store separately and combine when ready to serve.

Q: What other pasta shapes can I use?
A: Penne is ideal, but rigatoni, rotini, or farfalle are great substitutes.

Q: Can I skip the tomatoes?
A: Yes, but the tomatoes add a fresh, tangy flavor that balances the creaminess of the sauce.

Conclusion

Southwest Chicken Alfredo is a dish that combines the best of both worlds—creamy, cheesy pasta and the bold, smoky flavors of the southwest. It’s hearty, comforting, and packed with flavor, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

From busy weeknights to dinner parties, this pasta dish is guaranteed to impress. With its rich sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked penne, it’s the kind of meal that brings people together around the table. Give it a try, and get ready to add a new favorite to your recipe collection.

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