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If you’re looking for a dish that combines rich, creamy textures with a burst of vibrant flavors, the Creamy Southwest Chicken Pasta Skillet is a recipe you won’t want to miss. This delightful fusion of tastes marries the heartiness of pasta with the zest of Southwest cuisine, making it an ideal choice for both busy weeknights and special gatherings. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this one-pan meal strikes the perfect balance between comfort food indulgence and nutritious dining.

Creamy Southwest Chicken Pasta Skillet

Discover the Creamy Southwest Chicken Pasta Skillet, a one-pan dish that effortlessly blends creamy textures with vibrant Southwest flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is not only simple and quick but also customizable to suit your taste. Featuring a medley of chicken, colorful vegetables, and a rich creamy sauce, this dish is a comforting delight for any occasion. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the satisfying taste that everyone will love, making it a great addition to your dinner rotation.
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Ingredients
  

8 oz penne pasta

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, chopped into bite-sized pieces

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, finely diced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 green bell pepper, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust according to spice preference)

1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set the pasta aside.

    Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and season them generously with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and thoroughly cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

      Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and both bell peppers. Sauté for approximately 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until it becomes fragrant.

        Incorporate the Spices: Sprinkle in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir the spices into the vegetables, allowing them to toast for about 30 seconds to release their flavors.

          Add the Veggies: Toss in the corn, black beans, and cherry tomatoes. Mix everything together in the skillet until the vegetables are evenly covered with the spices.

            Create the Creamy Sauce: Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and combines into the creamy sauce. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix until everything is evenly coated.

              Combine with Pasta: Add the drained penne pasta into the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce. Taste your dish and season with additional salt or pepper to your liking.

                Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve the dish immediately with lime wedges on the side for a zesty flavor boost.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings

                    - Presentation Tips: For an appealing presentation, serve in wide bowls and sprinkle additional cilantro on top. You can also add a dusting of Parmesan cheese and arrange lime wedges artistically beside each serving for a pop of color.