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Southwest Alfredo Penne Pasta Recipe
This creamy Southwest Alfredo Penne Pasta is a delightful mix of flavors that you’ll love. With tender chicken, a rich sauce, and the perfect amount of spice, it’s a wonderful dish for dinner and sure to please the whole family.
Why make this recipe
This recipe combines the creaminess of Alfredo sauce with the zesty warmth of Southwest seasoning, creating a unique and comforting meal. It’s also quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s customizable, allowing you to adjust the spice level to your liking.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated cheese (like Parmesan or a blend)
- 1 tsp southwest seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
How to make it
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and southwest seasoning.
- Sear the chicken on both sides until cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and let rest before slicing.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until fragrant and the onions are translucent.
- Lower the heat, add the heavy cream, and stir until warmed through. Gradually add in the cheese until melted and combined into a creamy sauce.
- Toss the cooked penne pasta in the sauce until well coated.
- Slice the cooked chicken and arrange it on top of the pasta.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired and serve immediately.
How to serve it
Serve this dish warm, garnished with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. It’s great on its own or paired with a side salad and crusty bread.
How to store it
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or water if the sauce has thickened too much.
Helpful tips
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy.
- Stir the sauce constantly when adding the cheese to prevent it from clumping.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of southwest seasoning to suit your taste.
Optional variations
- To add more vegetables, consider incorporating bell peppers or corn into the sauté step with the onions and garlic.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute penne with any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli or farfalle.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While the pasta is best served freshly made, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken earlier in the day. Just combine everything and reheat when ready to serve.
Is this dish spicy?
The level of spice can vary based on the amount of southwest seasoning you use. You can adjust it according to your preference for heat.
Creamy Southwest Alfredo Penne Pasta
A delightful mix of creamy Alfredo sauce and zesty Southwest seasoning, featuring tender chicken and penne pasta - perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 2 pieces chicken breasts
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated cheese (like Parmesan or a blend)
- 1 tsp southwest seasoning Adjust to taste
- 1 tbl olive oil
- 1 pieces onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Cooking Pasta
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cooking Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and southwest seasoning.
- Sear the chicken on both sides until cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and let rest before slicing.
Making the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until fragrant and the onions are translucent.
- Lower the heat, add the heavy cream, and stir until warmed through.
- Gradually add in the cheese until melted and combined into a creamy sauce.
Combining Ingredients
- Toss the cooked penne pasta in the sauce until well coated.
- Slice the cooked chicken and arrange it on top of the pasta.
Serving
- Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or water if the sauce has thickened too much.
