MEXICAN CHICKEN PASTA

Mexican Chicken Pasta combines the savory flavors of Mexican cuisine with the convenience of pasta to create a tasty and satisfying dish. Here are step-by-step instructions on how to prepare this delicious fusion meal.

 Ingredients

• Chicken breast: 1 pound (approx. 450 g), cut into small pieces
• Pasta: 8 ounces (approx. 225 g), penne or fusilli work well
• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
• Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
• Bell pepper: 1 cup, diced (use a color mixture for variety)
• Garlic: 2 cloves, chopped
• Canned tomatoes: 14 ounces (about 400 g), diced or mashed
• Chicken broth: 1/2 cup (approx. 120 ml)
• Black beans: 1 cup, drained and rinsed
• Corn: 1 cup, fresh or frozen
• Taco seasoning: 2 tablespoons, store-bought or homemade
• Salt and pepper: to taste
• Fresh cilantro: a handful, chopped
• Cheese: 1 cup, grated (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
• Sour cream: for serving (optional)
• Avocado: sliced, for garnish (optional)
• Lime wedges: for serving (optional)

Instructions

 STEP 1: COOK  PASTA

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to the boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions.Drain and reserve.

 STEP 2: PREPARE  CHICKEN

1. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper and 1 tablespoon taco seasoning.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat.Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.

 STEP 3: FRY THE VEGETABLES

1. In the same pan, add the remaining olive oil. Saute onions and peppers until softened, about 5 minutes.2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

 STEP 4: COMBINE INGREDIENTS

1. Add the canned tomatoes (with their juice), chicken broth, black beans, corn and the rest of the taco seasoning. Bring to a boil.2. Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

 STEP 5: ADD PASTA AND CHEESE

1. Add the cooked pasta to the pan and stir to combine with the chicken and vegetable mixture.Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
2. Sprinkle the grated cheese on top and cover the pan for a few minutes until the cheese melts.

 STEP 6: DECORATE AND SERVE

1. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, avocado slices and, if desired, a dollop of sour cream.2. Serve with lime wedges on the side for a hint of citrus flavor.

 Tips

• Taco Seasoning: To make a homemade mixture, combine chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, ground coriander and cayenne pepper.
• Protein Variations: You can substitute chicken for shrimp or make it vegetarian by using more beans and vegetables.
• Serving suggestion: This dish goes well with a side of green salad or garlic salad. Bread for a complete meal.

Enjoy your Mexican Chicken Pasta, a dish that promises a delicious mix of textures and flavors, perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you’re craving something different