Cheesy Southwest Chicken Pasta

Author:

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked rotini pasta (or any pasta of choice)
  • 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
  • 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes (diced tomatoes with green chilies), drained
  • 1 cup corn (frozen or canned, drained)
  • 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth (more if needed)
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (Mexican blend or cheddar)
  • 1/2 cup Velveeta cheese, cubed (optional for extra creaminess)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

  1. Cook the pasta: Boil the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the chicken: If not already cooked, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, chili powder, and paprika. Cook in a skillet over medium heat until done (about 6-8 minutes per side). Shred the chicken.
  3. Sauté the aromatics: In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft (about 3 minutes). Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 more seconds.
  4. Combine ingredients: Add Rotel tomatoes, corn, black beans, shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Stir until well combined.
  5. Melt the cheese: Add in the Velveeta cubes (if using) and stir until melted. Then, mix in 1 cup of the shredded cheese.
  6. Add pasta: Stir in the cooked pasta, ensuring everything is well coated. If the mixture is too thick, add a little more chicken broth.
  7. Bake (optional): Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  8. Serve: Garnish with chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream if desired. Enjoy!

Would you like any modifications, such as making it spicier or adding a crunchy topping? 😊