Southwest Chicken Alfredo

Southwest Chicken Alfredo is a bold, creamy fusion dish that brings together the rich comfort of classic Alfredo pasta with the zesty, smoky flavors of the Southwest. Featuring tender, seasoned chicken, colorful bell peppers, and a spicy, cheesy Alfredo sauce, this one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a satisfying dinner with a flavorful twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a delicious combination of creamy and spicy, hearty and fresh. It’s packed with flavor thanks to Southwest spices, juicy chicken, and vibrant veggies, all coated in a luscious Alfredo sauce with a kick. Plus, it’s simple to make, ready in under an hour, and sure to become a family favorite with its comforting texture and crave-worthy taste.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (sliced or cubed)
• Olive oil
• Southwest or taco seasoning
• Garlic (minced)
• Bell peppers (red, yellow, or green, sliced)
• Onion (sliced)
• Penne or fettuccine pasta
• Heavy cream
• Chicken broth
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Cream cheese (optional, for added richness)
• Salt and black pepper
• Cilantro or green onions (optional, for garnish)
• Optional: jalapeños, black beans, corn, or crushed red pepper flakes

directions

1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken with Southwest seasoning and cook until browned and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté bell peppers and onions until tender. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in cream, Parmesan, and cream cheese (if using), whisking until smooth and creamy.
5. Return chicken to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything to coat in the sauce.
6. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until heated through and sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions if desired. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4–6 servings

Variations

• Spicy version: Add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce to the sauce for extra heat.
• Low-carb option: Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
• Vegetarian: Omit chicken and add black beans or sautéed mushrooms.
• Cheesy twist: Add shredded pepper jack or cheddar cheese for a richer sauce.
• Bacon boost: Add crumbled bacon for smoky flavor and crunch.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. Microwave individual portions in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, just shred it and add it when combining the pasta and sauce to warm through.

Is this dish spicy?

It has a mild kick from the Southwest seasoning. You can increase or reduce the spice to your taste.

What pasta works best?

Penne, fettuccine, rotini, or linguine all work well to hold the creamy sauce.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, cook and combine everything, then reheat gently before serving. Add a splash of cream if the sauce thickens too much.

What’s the best cheese for Alfredo?

Freshly grated Parmesan is classic, but you can also mix in jack or cheddar for a Southwest spin.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. Whole milk or half-and-half works best.

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s best served fresh, but you can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat with extra liquid.

What vegetables can I add?

Corn, black beans, spinach, or mushrooms all work well in this dish.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and ensure all seasonings and broth are gluten-free.

What can I serve with it?

A side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make great accompaniments.

Conclusion

Southwest Chicken Alfredo is a creamy, spicy, flavor-packed twist on a classic pasta dish. With tender chicken, colorful veggies, and a bold Alfredo sauce, it brings excitement to the dinner table without much fuss. Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal prepping for the week, this dish delivers comfort and kick in every bite.

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