Southwest Chicken Penne Alfredo: A One-Pan Tex-Mex Delight for Beginners

Imagine creamy Alfredo sauce infused with bold Tex-Mex flavors, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked penne pasta all coming together in one pan. This Southwest Chicken Penne Alfredo is the ultimate fusion of comfort and zest, designed for those who crave big flavors but want minimal fuss in the kitchen.

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When I first stumbled across this recipe, I was searching for something hearty and family-friendly, yet quick enough to fit into a busy weeknight. This dish became an instant hit in my household because it checks all the boxes: one-pan convenience, rich flavors, and just enough spice to keep things exciting.

Whether you’re new to cooking or simply looking for an effortless, crowd-pleasing meal, this recipe is a game-changer. With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for beginners who want to build confidence in the kitchen.

Ingredients and Preparation

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious dish. I’ve included substitutions and tips to give you flexibility based on what you might already have in your pantry.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces penne pasta – Cooked to al dente according to package directions.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For browning the chicken and enhancing flavor.
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Cut into bite-sized, 1-inch pieces. (You can also use boneless thighs or pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – Adds richness to the sauce.
• ¾ cup yellow onion, diced – Brings sweetness and depth to the dish.
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic – Essential for that savory, aromatic base.
• 1½ cups chicken broth – Forms the liquid foundation of the sauce.
• 14.5-ounce can petite diced tomatoes – Adds a hint of tang and texture.
• 15.25-ounce can yellow corn, drained – For sweetness and a pop of color.
• 15.25-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed – Adds hearty protein and Tex-Mex flair.
• 1-ounce packet taco seasoning – Brings the signature southwest flavor.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the flavors.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper – For subtle spice.
• 1 cup heavy cream, divided – Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Enhances the creaminess and adds a nutty, savory taste.
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped – For garnish and freshness.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Chicken Alternatives: Swap chicken breasts for thighs or turkey. For a vegetarian option, skip the meat entirely—the beans and cheese provide plenty of protein.
• Taco Seasoning: If you’re out, make your own with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
• Heavy Cream: Half-and-half or evaporated milk can be used in a pinch, though the sauce may be slightly less rich.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated Romano or Pecorino cheese also work beautifully.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s break this recipe into simple, manageable steps. Follow along, and you’ll have dinner ready in no time!

1. Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling water, cook the penne pasta to al dente. (This means it should still have a slight bite to it.) Drain and set aside.

Pro Tip: Add a pinch of salt and a drizzle of olive oil to the boiling water. The salt enhances the flavor, while the oil prevents the pasta from sticking.

2. Brown the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and the chicken pieces. Cook for 7–9 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Note: To ensure your chicken is fully cooked, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

3. Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking for 1–2 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.

Pro Tip: Stir frequently to avoid burning the garlic, which can turn bitter if overcooked.

4. Build the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, corn, black beans, taco seasoning, salt, pepper, and ¾ cup of heavy cream. Stir everything together until well combined.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for 8–10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.

5. Combine Everything

Once the sauce has thickened, turn off the heat. Add the remaining ¼ cup of heavy cream, the cooked chicken, drained pasta, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until everything is coated in the creamy sauce.

Pro Tip: Reserve some pasta water before draining—it can be added to the sauce if it becomes too thick.

6. Serve and Garnish

Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and brightness.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• Prevent Overcooking: Keep an eye on the chicken and veggies as they cook to avoid over-browning or softening.
• Save Time: Use pre-cooked chicken, like shredded rotisserie chicken, to cut down on prep time.
• Balance the Heat: If you want a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder when you add the taco seasoning. For a milder version, use only half the taco seasoning packet.
• Smooth Sauce: Stir the sauce often to prevent it from burning or forming lumps.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this creamy, zesty pasta with simple sides for a complete meal:

1. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the rich Alfredo sauce.
2. Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a lime vinaigrette complements the Tex-Mex flavors beautifully.
3. Roasted Veggies: Try roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus for added color and nutrition.

Storage and Reheating

• To Store: Once the dish has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• To Reheat: Warm leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it.

Conclusion

This Southwest Chicken Penne Alfredo is more than just a recipe—it’s an invitation to explore the joy of cooking with bold flavors and simple techniques. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or treating yourself to a cozy dinner, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your rotation.

Don’t be afraid to make it your own! Try adding your favorite veggies or experimenting with different cheeses. Once you’ve mastered this recipe, you’ll feel ready to tackle more complex dishes with confidence.

I’d love to hear how your dish turns out! Share your experience and any personal twists you added in the comments below. Happy cooking!