One Pot Taco Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe
If you’ve ever dreamed about merging your Tex-Mex and Italian favorites into one unforgettable dish, allow me to introduce you to the magic of One Pot Taco Chicken Alfredo Pasta. This cozy recipe brings together creamy Alfredo sauce, zesty taco spices, and juicy, tender chicken, all swirled together with pasta and melty cheese—right in a single pot! It’s a deliciously simple, flavor-packed meal that tastes like pure comfort and comes together in just 35 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting friends for dinner, this rich, cheesy pasta is sure to win hearts around your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this One Pot Taco Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a breeze, but each component plays an important role in building big, bold flavors and irresistible creaminess. Here’s what you’ll need—and why each one matters.
- Chicken breasts: Tender chicken soaks up all the Mexican-inspired spices and makes this pasta super hearty.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps sear the chicken to golden perfection.
- Taco seasoning: The spice mix that brings zesty warmth and a hint of smokiness—no bland chicken here!
- Garlic: Four cloves might sound bold, but it infuses the sauce with depth and aroma.
- Chicken broth: Adds savory backbone and makes the pasta extra flavorful as it cooks right in the pot.
- Heavy cream: Guarantees a lush, silky sauce that clings to every bite (sub half-and-half if you’d prefer).
- Penne pasta: Perfect for holding onto all that creamy taco sauce—with just the right amount of bite.
- Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, salty kick that rounds out the Alfredo flavors.
- Cheddar cheese: Melty, tangy cheddar ties everything together with classic taco vibes.
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies: For a pop of freshness and a little gentle heat.
- Black pepper: Lifts and brightens the entire dish.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): Add a fun kick if you love your pasta with a bit more heat.
- Fresh cilantro: For that fresh, herby finish—totally optional but oh-so-good.
How to Make One Pot Taco Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add in those bite-sized chicken pieces and let them sizzle until they’re lightly golden on the outside and just cooked through, about five to six minutes. This step locks in all the juiciness and ensures the chicken doesn’t dry out later.
Step 2: Season & Sauté
Sprinkle the taco seasoning right over the chicken and give it a good stir to coat every piece in that irresistible spice. Toss in your minced garlic and let it cook for another minute. That garlicky, savory aroma wafting from the pan is a sneak peek of the deliciousness coming your way.
Step 3: Add Liquids & Pasta
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up any tasty brown bits on the bottom for extra flavor. Stir in the penne pasta, and make sure it’s nestled under the liquid so it cooks evenly. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cover.
Step 4: Simmer Until Perfect
Let your One Pot Taco Chicken Alfredo Pasta bubble away for 15 to 18 minutes, stirring once or twice so nothing sticks. When the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed into a dreamy sauce, you know you’re on the right track.
Step 5: Make It Cheesy & Creamy
It’s time for ultimate comfort: Stir in the grated Parmesan, shredded cheddar, drained diced tomatoes with green chilies, black pepper, and (if you’re feeling it) a pinch of red pepper flakes. Let everything melt together for two to three minutes. The cheese will transform the sauce into pure, velvety heaven.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Turn off the heat, sprinkle fresh cilantro on top, and get ready to dive in! This pasta is best enjoyed hot, straight from the pot—family style. One Pot Taco Chicken Alfredo Pasta is ready to wow everyone at your table.
How to Serve One Pot Taco Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Garnishes
A handful of fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and herbal brightness that really livens up all those creamy, cheesy flavors. For extra zing, try a squeeze of lime, chopped green onions, or a handful of crushed tortilla chips sprinkled right on top for crunch.
Side Dishes
This pasta is so hearty, it’s absolutely meal-worthy on its own! But if you want something on the side, a crisp green salad with a lime vinaigrette provides the perfect balance. Garlic bread or warm tortillas are excellent choices for mopping up any leftover sauce on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your One Pot Taco Chicken Alfredo Pasta layered in colorful bowls, or even spoon hearty portions into taco shells or lettuce wraps for a fun, playful twist. Let everyone customize with their favorite toppings, from sliced avocados to diced jalapeños or even a dollop of sour cream.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you end up with leftovers, simply transfer the cooled pasta to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, your One Pot Taco Chicken Alfredo Pasta will stay fresh for up to three days, making it perfect for quick lunches or cozy next-day dinners.
Freezing
The rich, creamy sauce freezes well! Let your pasta cool, then scoop it into a freezer-safe container or individual portions. It will keep in the freezer for up to two months. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results, as this keeps the sauce creamy.
Reheating
Gently reheat your pasta in a saucepan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce looks too thick. You can also zap it in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until it’s heated through and delicious once again.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! Penne is classic, but feel free to swap in rotini, fusilli, or even spaghetti—whatever you have on hand. The key is choosing a sturdy shape that will hold up well during simmering and absorb all that luscious sauce.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
You can lighten things up by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream and cutting back just a bit on the cheese. Adding a few handfuls of baby spinach at the end is another great way to boost nutrition without losing any flavor.
What if I want it extra spicy?
Turn up the heat by adding extra red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the pot with the garlic. You can also use a spicy taco seasoning or top your finished dish with hot sauce for a fiery finish.
Can I make One Pot Taco Chicken Alfredo Pasta with pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Stir in chopped rotisserie chicken after the pasta is tender, and let it warm through in the hot sauce for just a couple of minutes. It’s a huge time-saver and works beautifully.
How do I keep the sauce from getting too thick when reheating?
Sauces tend to thicken as they sit in the fridge. Just add a splash of chicken broth, cream, or even milk as you reheat, stirring gently to bring back that creamy consistency. The sauce will revive beautifully!
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to shake up your weeknight dinners with something that’s as fun and flavor-packed as it is easy, this One Pot Taco Chicken Alfredo Pasta is the dish to try. It’s quick, comforting, and loaded with cheesy, zesty goodness—sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Gather your ingredients and give it a go; you just might find it becomes a new family favorite!
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One Pot Taco Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delightful fusion dish, this One Pot Taco Chicken Alfredo Pasta combines the flavors of tacos with creamy Alfredo sauce in a single pot for easy cooking and cleanup. Tender chicken, pasta, and a blend of cheeses create a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
Other Ingredients:
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies (drained)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet, add chicken, brown for 5–6 minutes, then add taco seasoning.
- Add Ingredients: Stir in garlic, broth, cream, pasta. Simmer covered for 15–18 minutes.
- Finish Dish: Stir in cheeses, tomatoes, peppers. Cook until creamy. Garnish with cilantro.
Notes
- You can substitute rotisserie chicken to save time—just stir it in after the pasta is cooked.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One Pot, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
