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Southwest Chicken Alfredo

Creamy Southwest Chicken Alfredo for a Family-Favorite Dinner

This Southwest Chicken Alfredo combines creamy richness with zesty flavors, making it a perfect quick dinner option.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Southwest
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Penne Pasta Substitutes: farfalle or rotini
For the Chicken
  • 2 pieces Chicken Breasts Substitutes: boneless skinless chicken thighs
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Substitutes: half-and-half
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Substitutes: Mexican blend or Monterey Jack
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Substitutes: margarine
For the Flavor
  • 1 medium Onion Substitutes: shallots
  • 2 cloves Garlic Cloves Substitutes: garlic powder
  • 1 cup Diced Tomatoes Substitutes: fresh tomatoes or crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon Southwest Seasoning Can customize the mix
  • 1 tablespoon Honey Substitutes: agave syrup
For Cooking
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Substitutes: avocado oil

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Large Pot
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Southwest Chicken Alfredo
  1. In a small bowl, mix together chili powder, cumin, oregano, paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne to create the Southwest seasoning blend.
  2. Drizzle honey over the chicken breasts and toss with half of the reserved Southwest seasoning. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
  3. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add the penne pasta, and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sear the seasoned chicken until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side.
  5. Add diced onions and butter to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  6. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add diced tomatoes and remaining Southwest seasoning, then simmer.
  7. Gradually pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously, and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  8. Return the chicken to the skillet and add cheddar cheese, stirring gently until melted.
  9. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce, then let it sit on low heat.
  10. Plate the dish and garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 18gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, use fresh ingredients and consider adding bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.

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