Chicken Enchilada Pasta is a delicious fusion of Mexican and Italian cuisines, combining the rich, bold flavors of enchiladas with the comfort of pasta. Tender chicken, hearty pasta, and a creamy, cheesy enchilada sauce come together to create a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. This one-pot dish is packed with zesty enchilada sauce, melty cheese, and the right amount of spice, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. Top it with your favorite enchilada toppings like sour cream, cilantro, and avocado for an extra burst of flavor!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb penne or rotini pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10 oz) can red enchilada sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with green chilies, if desired)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, avocado, or green onions (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- In a large pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add Chicken and Sauce:
- Stir in the cooked chicken, enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Combine with Pasta:
- Add the cooked pasta back into the pot, stirring until everything is well coated. Stir in the shredded cheese and sour cream until melted and creamy.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado, or green onions. Serve hot with extra toppings like sour cream or salsa, if desired.
Chicken Enchilada Pasta is a flavorful, creamy dish that combines the best of two worlds—perfect for those nights when you’re craving a comforting, spicy, and cheesy meal!
