If you love the creamy richness of Alfredo paired with the bold zest of tacos, then you are in for a treat with this One Pot Taco Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe. Imagine tender chicken cubes seasoned perfectly with taco spices, mingling with pasta bathed in a luscious, cheesy sauce that’s bursting with the flavors of the Southwest. This dish is comfort food elevated with just the right kick, all cooked effortlessly in a single pot. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner that delivers both convenience and unforgettable flavor, making it a staple you’ll want to return to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple yet vital, each ingredient in this One Pot Taco Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe shines through the dish, building layers of flavor, texture, and color that make every bite irresistible.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed: The hearty protein base that soaks up all the delicious taco seasoning.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance every ingredient.
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning: Adds that signature southwest spice and depth of flavor.
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided: Butter enriches the sauce and helps brown the chicken beautifully.
- 8 ounces penne pasta: A perfect pasta shape that holds the creamy Alfredo sauce well.
- 14 ounces chicken broth: This creates the cooking liquid for the pasta and infuses it with savory goodness.
- 1 cup heavy cream: For the silky, indulgent Alfredo sauce texture everyone loves.
- ½ cup shredded Mexican blend cheese: Adds a melty, cheesy balance with a touch of tang.
- ½ cup diced tomatoes: Brings brightness and fresh acidity to cut through the richness.
- 3 tablespoons grated cotija cheese: A salty finishing touch that complements the taco flavors perfectly.
How to Make One Pot Taco Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-size cubes and generously seasoning them with salt, pepper, and taco seasoning. This upfront seasoning ensures every piece bursts with Southwest flavor as it cooks.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large pot over medium-high heat, then add the seasoned chicken cubes. Cook until golden brown on all sides and just cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Browning the chicken adds that irresistible savory crust that makes each bite more flavorful. Once done, set the chicken aside, leaving any browned bits in the pot to add more flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Add the remaining butter, then pour in the chicken broth and stir well to deglaze the pot. Toss in the penne pasta, cover with a lid, and let it simmer on medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cooking pasta directly in the broth absorbs all the delicious flavors, creating a pasta base that’s anything but plain.
Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce and Combine
Once the pasta is al dente and most of the broth is absorbed, lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, shredded Mexican blend cheese, and diced tomatoes. Stir gently but thoroughly, allowing the cheese to melt and the sauce to thicken. Return the browned chicken to the pot and mix until everything is coated in that creamy, dreamy sauce. This step is where the magic happens, marrying spicy taco notes with luscious Alfredo richness.
Step 5: Final Touches
Sprinkle the grated cotija cheese on top for an extra layer of salty, crumbly goodness. Give the pasta a final gentle stir, then turn off the heat. Let it rest a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld perfectly.
How to Serve One Pot Taco Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A handful of fresh cilantro leaves or sliced green onions brighten up the dish beautifully while adding fresh herbal notes. A squeeze of lime juice on top can also elevate the flavors, balancing the richness with a burst of citrus freshness. Don’t forget a dollop of sour cream for cool, creamy contrast if you like.
Side Dishes
This dish is wonderfully filling on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, simple sides like a crisp garden salad or roasted veggies make excellent companions. Cornbread or crusty garlic bread are also fantastic for soaking up leftover sauce and adding a satisfying crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive twist, serve the One Pot Taco Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe in mini cast iron skillets or colorful bowls to highlight its vibrant colors. You can also sprinkle extra cotija cheese and chopped jalapeños on top for guests to customize their heat level. A side of warm tortillas can turn it into a fun taco-inspired pasta fiesta.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because this dish loves creaminess, you might notice it thickens upon chilling—just add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to bring back that smooth texture.
Freezing
Though the fresh cream sauce is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the dish if needed. Freeze in portions without adding extra cheese or tomatoes, then thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove, stirring frequently and adding liquid to loosen the sauce.
Reheating
Reheat the pasta gently over low heat on the stove, stirring regularly to prevent sticking and to regain that creamy consistency. A quick zap in the microwave works too—just stir halfway through heating and add a splash of broth if it’s too thick.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for the One Pot Taco Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! While penne works beautifully because it holds the sauce well, you can swap in rigatoni, fusilli, or even macaroni based on what you have handy. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free or lower in fat?
Yes, to lighten it up, try using a dairy-free cream alternative and a plant-based cheese substitute. Keep in mind this will change the texture and flavor slightly, but you’ll still get the delicious taco-inspired taste.
How spicy is the One Pot Taco Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe?
The spice level mainly comes from the taco seasoning you use. You can tailor it to your preference by choosing mild, medium, or hot taco seasoning blends, or even add fresh jalapeños for an extra kick.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance for a party?
Definitely! You can cook the pasta and chicken a few hours ahead, then gently reheat before serving. Just keep the sauce creamy by adding a bit of extra cream or broth when warming it back up.
What leftovers pair well with this pasta?
This pasta pairs nicely with simple sides like steamed vegetables, sliced avocados, or a fresh salsa. Leftovers themselves can be turned into a taco bowl base topped with lettuce and your favorite taco toppings.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something so satisfying about a dish that combines convenience with incredible flavor, and the One Pot Taco Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe nails that perfectly. With its bold taco seasoning, creamy Alfredo sauce, and tender chicken, it’s a dish that feels special yet comes together with minimal fuss. Whether you’re feeding a family or impressing guests, this recipe promises a hearty, comforting meal that everyone will rave about. Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner!
Print
One Pot Taco Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.5 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American Fusion
Description
This One Pot Taco Chicken Alfredo Pasta combines the comforting creaminess of Alfredo sauce with a zesty taco twist. Tender chicken breasts are seasoned and cooked with penne pasta in a rich blend of chicken broth, heavy cream, and Mexican cheeses, delivering a flavorful and hearty meal that’s quick and easy to prepare in just one pot.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
Pasta and Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 14 ounces chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
Cheeses and Garnish
- ½ cup shredded Mexican blend cheese
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
- 3 tablespoons grated cotija cheese
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: In a bowl, toss the cubed chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and taco seasoning until evenly coated. This ensures the chicken absorbs all the bold taco flavors right from the start.
- Sauté the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Cook the Pasta: In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then stir in the penne pasta. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, reduce heat, and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally until pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, approximately 12-15 minutes.
- Add Cheeses and Chicken: Lower the heat and stir in the shredded Mexican blend cheese until melted and creamy. Return the cooked chicken to the pot and combine thoroughly to meld all the flavors.
- Finish with Tomatoes and Cotija Cheese: Fold in the diced tomatoes and sprinkle the grated cotija cheese on top. Allow the heat to warm the tomatoes slightly before serving.
Notes
- For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños when cooking the chicken.
- If you prefer a lighter dish, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Use freshly grated cotija cheese for best flavor and texture.
- Ensure to stir the pasta frequently while cooking to prevent it from sticking to the pot.
- You can substitute penne pasta with other short pasta shapes like rotini or farfalle.
