Southwest Chicken Alfredo

Creamy, Bold, and Comforting Pasta with a Southwest Twist

If you’re craving a dinner that feels indulgent, comforting, and just a little bit exciting, this Southwest Chicken Alfredo checks every box. It’s rich and creamy like a classic Alfredo, but layered with warm Southwest spices, tender pan-seared chicken, sweet onions, garlic, and juicy diced tomatoes. The result is a pasta dish that feels familiar yet fresh—perfect for busy weeknights, casual family dinners, or when you simply want something deeply satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, uses simple pantry ingredients, and delivers restaurant-quality flavor right at home. The creamy sauce clings beautifully to penne pasta, while the seasoned chicken adds protein and hearty texture. A touch of honey balances the spices, and shredded cheddar melts into the sauce for a bold, cheesy finish.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of creamy chicken pasta or looking to try a new spin on Alfredo, this Southwest Chicken Alfredo is one recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Big flavor with minimal effort
  Southwest spices, garlic, onion, and cheddar cheese create a deeply flavorful sauce without complicated techniques.
• Quick and weeknight-friendly
  Ready in about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy schedules.
• Creamy comfort food
  Rich, velvety sauce made with heavy cream and melted cheddar coats every bite of pasta.
• Family-approved
  Familiar ingredients and comforting flavors make this a hit with both kids and adults.
• Versatile and adaptable
  Easy to adjust spice levels or adapt to different dietary needs without changing the core recipe.

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe serves 4 people and is organized into components for clarity. All measurements are listed exactly as used in the recipe.

Pasta and Protein

• ½ lb. penne pasta
• 1 lb. chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch strips

Sauce Base and Add-Ins

• 1 (15 oz.) can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup onion, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 tablespoon cilantro, chopped

Southwest Seasoning Blend

• 1 ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne

Tools & Equipment Needed

Having the right tools on hand makes this recipe smooth and stress-free.

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Colander for draining pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Mixing bowls (one small, one large)
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for perfect results every time.

1. Prepare the Southwest Seasoning

In a small bowl, combine all the spices listed under the Southwest seasoning blend. Stir until evenly mixed, then set aside.

2. Season the Chicken

Place the cut chicken breasts into a large bowl. Drizzle in the honey and sprinkle in half of the prepared seasoning mix. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated.

3. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

4. Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken strips. Cook for a few minutes on each side until fully cooked through and nicely golden. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

5. Build the Sauce Base

In the same skillet, add the butter and chopped onion over medium heat. Cook for a few minutes until the onion becomes tender. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently.

6. Add Tomatoes and Spices

Add the diced tomatoes and the remaining half of the seasoning mix to the skillet. Stir well and bring the mixture to a low simmer.

7. Create the Creamy Sauce

Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously until fully incorporated. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.

8. Combine Chicken, Cheese, and Pasta

Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Add the cooked penne pasta and toss until evenly coated in the sauce.

9. Rest and Finish

Remove the skillet from heat and let the pasta sit for a few minutes. Stir once more to fully coat the pasta in the sauce. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro before serving.

Tips & Variations

Adjusting Spice Levels

• For a milder version, reduce the cayenne slightly.
• For more heat, increase cayenne by small increments.

Dietary Adaptations

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free penne pasta.
• Vegetarian: Replace chicken with a plant-based protein or sautéed vegetables while keeping all other steps the same.
• Dairy-free: Use dairy-free cream and cheese alternatives with similar melting properties.

Pantry Substitutions

• Pre-shredded cheddar works, but freshly shredded melts more smoothly.
• Canned diced tomatoes can be drained slightly if you prefer a thicker sauce.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

This dish delivers a creamy, savory base with subtle sweetness from honey and warmth from chili powder, cumin, and paprika. The cheddar cheese adds sharpness, while tomatoes brighten the sauce with acidity. The texture is rich and velvety, balanced by tender chicken and perfectly cooked penne.

This pasta pairs best with simple side dishes such as green salads, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread that won’t compete with the bold flavors.

Nutritional Overview

This recipe is hearty and filling, offering a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats.

• High in protein from chicken and cheese
• Rich and calorie-dense due to cream and cheddar
• Contains fiber and micronutrients from tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices

Portion control is recommended if you’re watching calorie intake, as this dish is intentionally indulgent.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Prep ahead: Chop onions, garlic, and chicken in advance and store refrigerated.
• Cook ahead: The sauce can be made earlier in the day and gently reheated.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain sauce consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes. Short pasta shapes with ridges, such as rotini or rigatoni, will also hold the sauce well.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare fully and store in an airtight container. Reheat gently to prevent the sauce from separating.

Why add honey to the chicken?

Honey balances the spices and enhances browning during cooking.

Can I freeze Southwest Chicken Alfredo?

Yes, though cream-based sauces may slightly change texture. Stir well when reheating.

How do I prevent the sauce from breaking?

Keep the heat at a gentle simmer and avoid boiling after adding cream and cheese.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Stage	Time
Prep Time	5 minutes
Cook Time	25 minutes
Total Time	30 minutes

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pasta straight from the skillet or transfer to a wide serving bowl. Garnish with fresh cilantro and an extra sprinkle of cheddar cheese for visual appeal. This dish shines as a standalone main course but pairs well with light sides to balance its richness.

Recipe Variations Using the Same Ingredients

1. Southwest Chicken Alfredo Bake
   Transfer finished pasta to a baking dish, top with extra cheddar, and bake until bubbly.
2. Southwest Chicken Alfredo Skillet
   Skip plating and serve family-style directly from the skillet.
3. Extra Creamy Version
   Allow the sauce to simmer an extra minute before adding pasta for a thicker consistency.
4. Herb-Forward Finish
   Increase cilantro slightly for a fresher, brighter finish.

Ingredient Spotlight

Chicken Breasts

Lean, versatile, and quick-cooking, chicken breasts absorb seasoning well and provide structure to the dish. Cutting them into uniform strips ensures even cooking.

Cheddar Cheese

Cheddar adds bold flavor and body to the sauce. Shredding it finely helps it melt smoothly into the cream.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Always season in layers—season the chicken and the sauce separately for depth of flavor.
• Use the same skillet for chicken and sauce to capture flavorful browned bits.
• Let the pasta rest briefly before serving to allow the sauce to thicken naturally.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Thaw overnight if frozen, then reheat gently on the stovetop.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	1092 kcal
Carbohydrates	121 g
Protein	57 g
Fat	48 g
Saturated Fat	25 g
Fiber	20 g
Sugar	49 g
Sodium	921 mg

Dietary notes: nut-free, not gluten-free, contains dairy.

Expanded Conclusion

Southwest Chicken Alfredo is the kind of recipe that earns a permanent spot in your dinner rotation. It’s creamy, bold, comforting, and surprisingly easy to make. With simple ingredients, clear steps, and big flavor payoff, it’s perfect for home cooks who want reliable results without sacrificing taste.

If you try this recipe, make it your own, share it with friends and family, and come back whenever you’re craving another comforting, flavor-packed meal worth repeating.

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