Description

Indulge in the creamy goodness of Southwest Chicken Alfredo, a dish that perfectly marries comfort food with vibrant flavors. This delightful recipe features tender chicken strips seasoned with warm spices, enveloped in a rich cream sauce and paired with perfectly cooked penne pasta. The addition of zesty diced tomatoes and fresh cilantro elevates this dish, making it not just a meal but an experience to be shared among family and friends. Quick to prepare, this chicken Alfredo is your go-to recipe for those cozy evenings when you crave something satisfying yet easy to whip up. Gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy every creamy bite!

Ingredients

Scale

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 tbsp Honey
1 tbsp Olive Oil
1 tbsp Butter
Fresh Cilantro (for garnish)
1 1/2 tsp Chili Powder
1/2 tsp Cumin
1/2 tsp Oregano
1 tsp Paprika
1/4 tsp Black Pepper
1/2 tsp Salt
1/8 tsp Cayenne

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Instructions

Prepare the spice blend by mixing chili powder, cumin, oregano, paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne.
Marinate the chicken strips in honey and half of the spice blend for enhanced flavor.
Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
Sear marinated chicken strips in olive oil until golden brown; set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté onions and butter until tender; add garlic and cook for one more minute.
Stir in diced tomatoes and remaining spice blend; let simmer.
Gradually add heavy cream while stirring; then return chicken to skillet.
Mix in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth; combine with drained penne pasta.
Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Sautéing
Cuisine: Southwestern

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
Calories: 590
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 680mg
Fat: 36g
Saturated Fat: 19g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 47g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 135mg