Cheesy Chicken Taco Pasta Skillet is one of those magical dishes that brings comfort and flavor to the table all in one pot. Picture this: tender chunks of chicken swimming in a creamy cheese sauce, enveloping perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, all seasoned with zesty taco spices. This dish has everything you need for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a casual family gathering. I’ve made it time and time again, and it never fails to impress. Plus, it’s a cinch to whip up, making it an ideal choice for busy nights when you still want something delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This recipe is a fantastic blend of convenience, flavor, and nutrition, making it a must-try. It comes together in about 30 minutes, so you can serve up a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It also uses pantry staples and relatively inexpensive ingredients, making it budget-friendly. Best of all, it’s kid-approved! Your little ones will love the cheesy goodness and the fun taco-flavored twist.
"This dish was a hit at our family dinner! The kids couldn’t get enough of the creamy cheesy pasta, and I loved how easy it was to put together." – Happy Home Cook
The Cooking Process Explained
Creating Cheesy Chicken Taco Pasta Skillet is remarkably simple. First, you’ll sauté juicy chicken chunks with onions, infusing them with spices that awaken all the flavors. Next, mix in raw elbow macaroni, broth, and tomatoes, allowing everything to simmer together. Finally, you’ll add a generous helping of cheese and milk, transforming the mix into a creamy dream. It’s a one-pan wonder that offers both minimal cleanup and maximum flavor!
Key Ingredients
To make this delicious dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 2 1/2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel (undrained)
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp dried cilantro
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Feel free to get creative with your cheese choices; a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack works well too!
