Hey there, fellow food adventurers! 👋 Are you ready to ditch the same old boring dinners and dive into a flavor fiesta? I'm talking about a dish that's not only incredibly delicious but also surprisingly easy to make: Chicken Enchilada Pasta!
Think of your favorite chicken enchiladas, but instead of tortillas, we're tossing all that goodness with perfectly cooked pasta. It's like a flavor explosion in every bite, and trust me, it's going to become your new go-to for busy weeknights. And if you want to make meal planning a breeze check out Menuistia, our awesome app for custom recipe creation and planning!
What Makes This Dish So Awesome?
- It's a Flavor Bomb: We're talking juicy shredded chicken, a medley of veggies, and a creamy, dreamy enchilada sauce that's just the right amount of spicy. Plus, you can adjust the spice level to your liking – mild for the kiddos, or extra fiery for the heat lovers!
- Super Simple: No complicated steps here, folks. This recipe is so straightforward you could practically make it with your eyes closed (okay, maybe not, but you get the idea!). This makes it a great addition to your repertoire of go-to recipes.
- Customizable: Want to add some extra veggies? Go for it! Have some leftover chicken? Perfect! This dish is a blank canvas for your creativity. See if you can match your family's favorite takeout.
- Crowd Pleaser: This is a dish that everyone, from the pickiest eaters to the most adventurous foodies, will love. It's a fantastic option for family dinners, potlucks, or even a fun night in with friends.
- Healthy and Nutritious: This is no calorie bomb. It is packed with protein, and you can choose wholewheat pasta, and load up the veggies. Remember healthy eating can still be fun, easy and tasty. For some additional inspiration for healthy and nutritious meals, check out the Menuistia App
Let's Get Cooking!
Ingredients
- 2 cooked chicken breasts, shredded (rotisserie chicken works wonders!)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 (4 ounces) can diced green chilies
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 2 (10 ounce) cans green chili enchilada sauce
- â…” cups red enchilada sauce
- 2 cups shredded Colby-Jack cheese
- 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 (16 ounces) package penne pasta
- Your favorite toppings: avocado, green onions, tomatoes, black olives, sour cream
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package directions. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and red pepper and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
- Add the shredded chicken, green chilies, cumin, chili powder, salt, green enchilada sauce, and red enchilada sauce to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Don't forget to sample it to see if you need additional seasoning.
- Stir in the Colby-Jack cheese until it's melted and gooey. Then, stir in the sour cream until well combined. Keep the heat low, making sure the sauce does not burn, and allow everything to heat through.
- Drain the cooked pasta and add it to a large serving bowl. Pour the sauce over the pasta, and toss everything together. Garnish with your favorite toppings, and serve immediately!
Making it Your Own
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Veggie Power: Toss in some mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrients.
- Cheese Lover: Use your favorite cheese blend! Monterey Jack, cheddar, or even a Mexican blend would be amazing.
- Protein Boost: Add some black beans or pinto beans for extra fiber and protein.
- Go Vegan: Use plant based chicken alternatives, vegan cheese, sour cream and a pasta that is egg free and you can enjoy a healthier and compassionate meal
Ready to take your meal planning to the next level? Download the Menuistia app today and start creating your own culinary masterpieces! It's free to use and can help you keep track of your favorite recipes, plan meals, and make grocery lists. It's a game changer for anyone who loves to cook and wants to make life in the kitchen easier. Why not start planning that healthy meal you will make next week?
So, there you have it – a chicken enchilada pasta that's guaranteed to make your taste buds dance. Get in the kitchen, have some fun, and don't forget to share your creations with us. Happy Cooking!