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Chicken Taco Pasta Skillet Recipe

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4.3 from 15 reviews

This Chicken Taco Pasta Skillet is a flavorful and easy-to-make one-pan meal combining tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and a zesty taco seasoning, all cooked together with penne pasta and topped with melted Mexican cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that brings taco night and pasta dinner together in a delicious and comforting dish.

  • Author: Lilya
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican-American

Ingredients

Protein and Vegetables

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound chicken breast, cubed (bite size)
  • 2 bell peppers, diced (about 2 cups)
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

Pasta and Liquids

  • 8 ounces penne pasta
  • 1 can petite diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
  • 2 cups chicken broth

Seasoning and Cheese

  • 1 packet taco seasoning (such as Siete brand)
  • 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend

Optional Garnishes

  • Lime wedges
  • Fresh diced tomato
  • Salsa
  • Cilantro
  • Additional shredded cheese
  • Avocado slices
  • Sour cream

Instructions

  1. Heat oil and cook chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Arrange the cubed chicken breast in a single, even layer and cook undisturbed for 4 minutes to develop a slight sear and cook through partially.
  2. Sauté vegetables: Add the diced bell peppers, diced onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 4 minutes until the onions and peppers soften and become fragrant.
  3. Add liquids, seasoning, and pasta: Stir in the canned petite diced tomatoes, 2 cups chicken broth, taco seasoning packet, and 8 ounces of penne pasta. Press the pasta lightly with the back of a spoon to arrange it in an even layer mostly submerged in the liquid.
  4. Simmer and cook pasta: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and cook for 15 minutes, stirring once halfway through to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  5. Check pasta doneness: Stir and check if the pasta is tender and cooked through. If the pasta is still too firm, cover again and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until desired tenderness is reached.
  6. Finish with cheese and serve: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded Mexican cheese. Let the dish sit for several minutes so the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. Garnish with lime wedges, diced tomatoes, salsa, cilantro, avocado slices, sour cream, or extra shredded cheese as desired before serving.

Notes

  • Use a good-quality taco seasoning for best flavor or homemade seasoning blend.
  • Stir halfway during cooking to prevent pasta from sticking to the skillet bottom.
  • Adjust cooking time if using a different type of pasta; smaller shapes typically cook faster.
  • For a spicier dish, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
  • Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated easily.

Find it online: https://familyhomemeals.com/chicken-taco-pasta-skillet-recipe/