When I made this Southwest Chicken Alfredo recipe for the first time, I couldn’t believe how something so creamy and cheesy could also pack such bold, exciting flavors. It’s truly a dish that’s comforting and vibrant all at once.
The seasoned chicken and southwest-style cream sauce are the ultimate pairings for tender pasta. Plus, it’s easy enough to whip together on a weeknight. Trust me, your family will love every bite, and you’ll love how quickly it comes together!
If you love bold and zesty flavors, don’t miss our Cajun Chicken with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce for another mouthwatering chicken recipe!
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make Southwest Chicken Alfredo Recipe
This recipe combines everyday ingredients with flavor-packed seasonings to create something extraordinary.
- Chicken Breasts (1 lb.) – Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for tender, juicy bites.
- Penne Pasta (½ lb.) – Short pasta like penne or rotini is perfect for capturing the sauce in every nook and cranny.
- Diced Tomatoes (15 oz. can) – Adds a touch of tanginess to balance the creamy Alfredo sauce.
- Heavy Cream (1 cup) – This creates that rich, velvety base we all love in Alfredo dishes.
- Cheddar Cheese (1 ½ cups, shredded) – Freshly shredded cheese melts smoothly and adds a sharp, cheesy kick.
- Onion (1 cup, chopped) – Yellow or white onions work best for a mild, savory base.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Fresh garlic enhances the aromatics, giving the dish robust flavor.
- Honey (1 tablespoon) – A subtle touch of sweetness that balances the spices beautifully.
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon) – Perfect for searing the chicken to golden-brown perfection.
- Butter (1 tablespoon) – Adds richness to the sauce.
- Cilantro (2 tablespoons, chopped) – Fresh cilantro brightens up the final dish as a garnish.
Southwest Seasoning Blend:
- Chili Powder (1 ½ teaspoons)
- Cumin (½ teaspoon)
- Oregano (½ teaspoon)
- Paprika (1 teaspoon)
- Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon)
- Salt (½ teaspoon)
- Cayenne (⅛ teaspoon, optional)
Note: This recipe serves 4 generous portions. Adjust as needed for larger groups!
Creative Variations to Try
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap heavy cream with coconut cream and use a plant-based cheese substitute.
- Low-Carb Twist: Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
- Extra Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, spinach, or corn for a boost of freshness and color.
- Spice It Up: Add more cayenne or a dash of chipotle powder for extra heat.
Cooking Time
Here’s how long you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Equipment Essentials You Will Need
- Large Skillet – For searing the chicken and cooking the sauce.
- Large Saucepan – To cook the pasta perfectly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons – Ensure accurate ingredient portions.
- Cutting Board and Knife – For prepping your chicken, onion, and other ingredients.
How to Make This Southwest Chicken Alfredo?
Making this recipe is so simple, and every step adds layers of flavor and comfort.
Step 1: Prepare the Southwest Seasoning
Mix together chili powder, cumin, oregano, paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne in a small bowl. This homemade blend will add bold, smoky flavors to the dish.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken
Slice the chicken into bite-sized strips and toss it in a bowl with honey and half the seasoning blend. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides and fully cooked. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Melt butter in the same skillet, then sauté the onions until softened. Stir in the garlic and diced tomatoes, cooking for a minute to release their flavors. Next, add the remaining seasoning. Gradually pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to create a smooth, creamy base.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, tossing it in the sauce. Stir in the cheddar cheese until melted, then gently fold in the pasta to coat evenly. Top with cilantro and serve hot!
Tips for Even Better Results
From my experience, these tips will take your dish to the next level:
- Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother melting.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente is key here.
- Deglaze the pan with a splash of chicken broth or white wine after removing the chicken, scraping up the tasty browned bits!
- If the sauce becomes too thick, thin it out with a bit of reserved pasta water.
How to Serve Southwest Chicken Alfredo?
Serve this indulgent pasta straight from the skillet, garnished with fresh cilantro for a pop of green. Pair it with warm garlic bread or a light garden salad to balance the richness. To make it extra special, drizzle some fresh lime juice over the top just before serving.
Nutritional Information
This dish is hearty and satisfying! Per serving, it includes approximately:
- Calories: 1,090
- Protein: 57g
- Carbohydrates: 121g
- Fat: 48g
What is the proper way to store leftovers?
- Make Ahead: You can sear the chicken, make the sauce, and cook the pasta ahead of time. Combine everything just before serving.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring often. If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk or cream.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
Here’s why this dish deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation:
- Quick to prepare, perfect for weeknights.
- Packed with bold, flavorful seasoning that’s anything but boring.
- Can be adapted for various dietary needs.
- Its creamy, cheesy sauce is irresistible!
- Family-friendly and sure to please even picky eaters.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Rotini, ziti, or even fettuccine will work well.
2. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, but the texture of the sauce might change slightly. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months and thaw before reheating.
3. What other proteins can I use?
Shrimp, ground turkey, or even tofu are great substitutes for the chicken in this dish!