why make this recipe

Chicken Taco Pasta is a delicious and easy meal that combines the flavors of classic tacos with comforting pasta. It’s a great choice for busy weeknights or casual family dinners, and it’s perfect for anyone who loves both Italian and Mexican cuisine. This dish is not only hearty and filling but also packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the beans and corn. Plus, it can be made in one skillet, which makes cleanup a breeze!

This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it according to your taste preferences. You can add more vegetables, switch up the protein, or even experiment with different types of cheese. It’s a great way to use leftover ingredients or to make a quick meal with pantry staples. Whether you’re cooking for a large group or just for yourself, Chicken Taco Pasta is sure to please everyone at the table.

how to make Chicken Taco Pasta

Ingredients:

8 oz pasta
1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 tablespoon taco seasoning
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn
1 cup salsa
1 cup shredded cheese
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Directions:

Cook the Pasta: Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Use a pot of boiling, salted water for the best results. Once the pasta is cooked al dente, drain it in a colander and set it aside. Make sure not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the other ingredients.
Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced chicken breast. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is no longer pink in the center. It’s essential to cut the chicken into small even pieces, so they cook evenly. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Add Taco Seasoning: After the chicken is cooked, add the taco seasoning to the skillet. Stir well to coat the chicken in the spices, which will add a burst of flavor to your dish. Continue to cook for 1-2 minutes to allow the seasoning to infuse into the chicken fully.
Combine with Vegetables: Next, add the rinsed black beans, corn, and salsa to the skillet. Stir everything well to combine the ingredients evenly. Cook this mixture for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The beans and corn will heat through, creating a vibrant and colorful filling in the skillet.
Mix in the Pasta: Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the drained pasta to the skillet and half of the shredded cheese. Stir everything until well combined. The cheese will melt into the warm mixture, bringing everything together with a creamy texture.
Melt the Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of the pasta mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit on low heat for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and become gooey.
Serve and Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat. Serve the Chicken Taco Pasta warm, garnished with fresh cilantro on top. This will add a bright flavor and lovely color to your dish.

how to serve Chicken Taco Pasta

Chicken Taco Pasta can be served in a variety of ways. You can dish it out onto plates or serve it family-style right from the skillet. It pairs well with a simple side salad or some tortilla chips for added crunch. Feel free to provide toppings like more cheese, sour cream, avocado, or sliced jalapeños for those who want to get creative.

You might also consider serving it in taco shells or over a bed of lettuce for a fun and fresh twist. This dish is a fantastic way to get everyone involved in personalizing their dinner!

how to store Chicken Taco Pasta

If you have leftovers of Chicken Taco Pasta, they can be stored easily! Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it into an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat the pasta in the microwave or on the stovetop. You may need to add a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil to help rehydrate it, as pasta tends to absorb a lot of moisture while sitting.

If you want to store it for a longer time, you can freeze the Chicken Taco Pasta. Place the cooled pasta into a freezer-safe container and it will keep well for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

tips to make Chicken Taco Pasta

Pasta Choice: Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta works well, just make sure to adjust cooking times according to the package directions.
Spice Level: If you like it spicy, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the skillet. You could even mix in chopped bell peppers for added flavor and crunch.
Additions: Enhance the nutritional value by including diced tomatoes, chopped bell peppers, or even avocado. You can also use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option if you’re short on time.
Cheese Variations: Cheddar cheese is great, but feel free to mix it up with pepper jack for a spicy twist or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
Serving Portions: If you’re cooking for a large crowd, simply double the recipe. Kids love this dish, and it’s an excellent choice for potlucks or gatherings.

variation

Chicken Taco Pasta can easily be transformed to fit different dietary needs or preferences. Here are a few variations to consider:

Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with additional beans or grilled veggies like zucchini and bell peppers. You can even add tofu or tempeh for a protein-packed meal.
Seafood Twist: For a unique take, try using shrimp instead of chicken. Shrimp cooks quickly and pairs nicely with the taco flavors.
Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, add diced green chilies when combining the beans and corn, or use a spicy salsa instead of mild.
Creamy Version: For a creamier texture, add 1/2 cup of cream cheese or sour cream after combining the pasta for a rich, delicious sauce.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes! You can use frozen chicken, but you will need to thaw it completely before cooking. Cooking frozen chicken directly in the skillet can lead to uneven cooking. If you’re using frozen chicken, it’s best to defrost it overnight in the refrigerator or use the microwave to defrost before dicing.

Can I prepare Chicken Taco Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time. You can cook and store the chicken, beans, corn, and pasta separately. When you are ready to serve, simply combine everything in the skillet, add the cheese, and heat through.

How do I make Chicken Taco Pasta spicier?

To make it spicier, you can add spicy taco seasoning in addition to your normal seasoning, or include fresh jalapeños or diced green chilies during the cooking process. You can also serve it with hot sauce or spicy salsa on the side.

Is Chicken Taco Pasta kid-friendly?

Absolutely! This dish is generally a hit with kids due to its fun flavors and cheesy goodness. You can adjust the spice levels to suit their taste by using mild salsa and less taco seasoning.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta. There are many options available now, including chickpea pasta, rice pasta, or gluten-free traditional pasta. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package as times may vary.

Chicken Taco Pasta is a fantastic recipe that brings comfort food to the table with a fun and flavorful twist. With these easy steps and tips, you’ll be able to whip up this dish in no time, making it a staple in your dinner rotation. Enjoy!

Chicken Taco Pasta

Author: zoubirlahcen
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten-Free Option Available

Print Recipe

Description

Chicken Taco Pasta is a delicious and easy meal that combines the flavors of classic tacos with comforting pasta, perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz pasta
1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 tablespoon taco seasoning
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn
1 cup salsa
1 cup shredded cheese
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions in boiling, salted water, then drain and set aside.
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, add diced chicken breast, and cook for 6-8 minutes until no longer pink.
Add the taco seasoning to the skillet and stir to coat the chicken, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Combine the black beans, corn, and salsa into the skillet, stirring well and cooking for about 5 minutes.
Mix in the drained pasta and half of the shredded cheese, stirring until well combined.
Melt the remaining cheese on top, covering the skillet for 2-3 minutes on low heat.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Notes

Use different types of pasta or cheese for variations. This dish is versatile and allows for customization with available ingredients.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: One-Skillet
Cuisine: Mexican-Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fiber: 8g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: chicken pasta, taco pasta, quick dinner, easy recipe, one skillet