Description

Craving a quick dinner that tastes like taco night in pasta form? This Chicken Taco Pasta is a creamy, cheesy, flavor-packed easy recipe made with tender chicken, pasta shells, taco seasoning, salsa, black beans, corn, and melty cheese. It is perfect for a quick dinner, easy dinner, family meal, and comfort food night, giving you one of those reliable food ideas that fits busy schedules without feeling boring.

Ingredients

12 ounces pasta shells

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 pound chicken breast, diced

1 small onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons taco seasoning

1 1/2 cups chicken broth

1 cup salsa

1/2 cup heavy cream

1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed

1 cup corn kernels

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

1 cup diced tomatoes

1 tablespoon lime juice

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta shells until just tender. Drain and set aside.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until lightly browned and nearly cooked through.

3. Stir in the diced onion and cook until softened, then add the garlic and taco seasoning. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Pour in the chicken broth and salsa, stirring to combine and loosen any browned bits from the pan.

5. Add the heavy cream and stir until the sauce looks smooth and creamy.

6. Fold in the cooked pasta shells, black beans, and corn. Stir well so everything is evenly coated.

7. Add the shredded cheddar cheese a little at a time, stirring until melted and creamy.

8. Season with salt, black pepper, and lime juice.

9. Top with chopped cilantro and diced tomatoes, then serve hot.

Notes

Use pasta shells or another shape with ridges so the creamy taco sauce clings well.

Add a splash of chicken broth when reheating to keep the sauce smooth and creamy.

For extra flavor, finish each serving with more cilantro, lime, or crushed tortilla chips.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 520
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 95mg