Go Back
+ servings
Southwest Chicken Alfredo

Creamy Southwest Chicken Alfredo for a Cozy Night In

A delicious Southwest Chicken Alfredo that combines cheesy comfort with vibrant southwest flavors, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Marinating Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Southwest
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Penne Pasta Or use rotini or farfalle for a fun twist.
For the Chicken
  • 2 pounds Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Chicken thighs can add extra flavor.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Half-and-half works too, but less creamy.
  • 1 can Diced Tomatoes Canned tomatoes make prep quick.
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Use a Mexican cheese blend for extra zest.
  • 1 medium Onion Yellow onions are commonly used.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is best.
For Flavoring
  • 1 tablespoon Honey Optional based on taste preferences.
  • 1/4 cup Cilantro Substitute with parsley if desired.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can use avocado or canola oil.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Use either salted or unsalted.
  • 1 Spices Chili powder, cumin, oregano, paprika, black pepper, salt, cayenne.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • large skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Small Bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a small bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, oregano, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne. Set aside.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, marinate chicken with honey and half of the spice blend for 10 minutes.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain.
  4. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown. Let rest before slicing.
  5. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium, melt butter, and sauté diced onion until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
  6. Pour in diced tomatoes and remaining spice blend. Simmer for 3-5 minutes. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
  7. Combine sliced chicken and shredded cheddar into the skillet. Stir until melted, then add cooked penne and mix thoroughly.
  8. Let the dish sit for a few minutes, garnish with cilantro, and serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 70gProtein: 35gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 105mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 650mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 25IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

To avoid curdling, stir constantly when adding heavy cream. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!