07/21/2024
Southwest Chicken Alfredo:
Ingredients:
1/2 lb. Penne Pasta
1 lb. Chicken Breasts, cut into 1" strips
1 (15 oz.) can Diced Tomatoes
1 cup Heavy Cream
1 1/2 cups Cheddar Cheese, shredded
1 cup Onion, chopped
4 Garlic Cloves, minced
1 tablespoon Honey
1 tablespoon Olive Oil
1 tablespoon Butter
2 tablespoons Cilantro, chopped
Southwest Seasoning:
1 1/2 teaspoons Chili Powder
1/2 teaspoon Cumin
1/2 teaspoon Oregano
1 teaspoon Paprika
1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
1/2 teaspoon Salt
1/8 teaspoon Cayenne
Instructions:
Prepare Southwest Seasoning: In a small bowl, mix together chili powder, cumin, oregano, paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne.
Prepare Chicken: Place chicken strips in a large bowl, drizzle with honey, and sprinkle with half of the southwest seasoning. Toss to combine and coat the chicken evenly.
Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken strips and cook for a few minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet, add butter and chopped onion. Cook until onion is tender, then add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in diced tomatoes and the remaining southwest seasoning. Bring to a low simmer.
Add Cream and Cheese: Slowly pour in heavy cream while stirring constantly until fully incorporated and the sauce begins to simmer. Add back the cooked chicken strips. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mixture and stir until cheese is melted and combined.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the sauce and chicken. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce.
Finish and Serve: Remove from heat and let the pasta sit for a few minutes. Stir again to ensure all ingredients are well combined. Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top and serve hot.
Enjoy this creamy and flavorful Southwest Chicken Alfredo as a delicious main course for any dinner occasion!