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–+ servings
Southwest Chicken Alfredo

Irresistible Southwest Chicken Alfredo for Cozy Family Dinners

This Southwest Chicken Alfredo elevates weeknight dinners with vibrant flavors, creamy sauce, and tender chicken, making it a family favorite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian, Southwest
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Use for easy preparation and tender results.
  • 1 tablespoon honey Balances spices and adds sweetness.
For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces penne pasta Substitute with short pasta like rotini or farfalle if desired.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup heavy cream Adds a rich, creamy texture.
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese Sharp cheddar or a Mexican blend enhances flavor.
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes Adds moisture and sweetness.
  • 1 medium onion Provides depth and sweetness.
  • 2 cloves garlic Fresh garlic works best.
For Seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Used for cooking chicken.
  • 2 tablespoons butter Unsalted is preferable.
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne Adjust based on spice tolerance.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Skillet
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the seasoning blend by mixing together the chili powder, cumin, oregano, paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne in a small bowl.
  2. Coat the chicken breasts in honey and sprinkle half of the seasoning blend over the chicken.
  3. Bring salted water to a boil in a large pot, add penne pasta, and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet and sear the seasoned chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side.
  5. In the same skillet, lower heat and add butter, followed by diced onion. Sauté until tender.
  6. Add diced tomatoes and the remaining seasoning blend, simmering for 3-5 minutes.
  7. Pour in heavy cream and mix thoroughly. Slowly add cheddar cheese, stirring until melted.
  8. Combine the cooked penne pasta into the skillet, tossing for 2-3 minutes.
  9. Slice chicken and serve on top of the pasta, garnishing with fresh cilantro.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Adjust the sweetness of the honey based on preference. For a crispy finish, consider broiling with extra cheese.

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