Description
This Chicken Taco Pasta is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal combining tender chicken pieces, taco seasoning, Rotel tomatoes, and pasta shells cooked together in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner that brings Mexican-inspired flavors to your table with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
Protein and Dairy
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into 1 inch pieces
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1 cup whole milk
Produce & Seasoning
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning
- Fresh herbs, for garnish
Pantry
- 1 can Rotel tomatoes (or salsa)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups whole wheat pasta shells
Instructions
- Brown the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the chicken breast pieces and cook until browned on all sides, ensuring they are nicely seared to lock in flavor.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the remaining tablespoon of butter and minced garlic to the skillet with the browned chicken. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add Seasonings and Liquids: Stir in the taco seasoning, then add the can of Rotel tomatoes (or salsa), chicken broth, and whole milk. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Cook Pasta: Once boiling, add the whole wheat pasta shells to the skillet. Continue to boil for 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and cooked through.
- Add Cheese and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving hot for a delicious and comforting meal.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, use a hot salsa instead of Rotel tomatoes.
- Whole wheat pasta adds fiber and nutrients, but you can substitute with regular pasta if preferred.
- To make this dish lower in fat, use reduced-fat cheese and milk.
- Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley add a fresh burst of flavor as a garnish.
- Be careful not to overcook the pasta; test for al dente texture during boiling.
