One night, after a long day, I wanted something comforting yet quick to whip up for dinner. That’s when I stumbled upon the idea of a Cheesy Chicken Taco Pasta Skillet. Combining the delicious flavors of tacos with the heartiness of pasta all in one pan felt innovative and pragmatic, leading me to create a dish that would soon become a weeknight favorite. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this dish is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a breeze to prepare. Imagine tender chicken and pasta swimming in a zesty sauce topped with melty cheese—what’s not to love?
Why you’ll love this dish
This Cheesy Chicken Taco Pasta Skillet isn’t just another dinner option; it’s a culinary hug on a plate. It comes together in one skillet, saving you time on cleanup while still delivering big on flavor. The combination of savory chicken, perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, and a delightful blend of spices creates an irresistible dinner that even picky eaters will go for. Plus, it’s budget-friendly—who doesn’t love a meal that stretches the dollar without compromising taste? Whether it’s a hectic weeknight or a casual family gathering, this quick recipe is sure to impress.
“This dish is a lifesaver! My kids couldn’t get enough of it, and I loved how quickly it came together. It’s now a staple in our meal rotation.”
Preparing Cheesy Chicken Taco Pasta Skillet
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. First, you’ll sauté the chicken and onions to infuse them with flavor, then mix in your spices and wholesome ingredients, and let it all meld together harmoniously. In just a few steps, you’ll have a creamy, satisfying skillet meal ready to serve.
What you’ll need
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 substitute chicken with ground turkey or use gluten-free pasta if needed.
