Looking for a quick and easy dinner that combines the creamy goodness of Alfredo sauce with the zesty flavors of Mexican cuisine? Look no further! This Mexican Alfredo recipe is a perfect fusion dish that’s simple enough for even toddlers to help make. With just a few ingredients—chicken breast, pasta, Alfredo sauce, taco seasoning, and your favorite shredded cheese—you’ll have a flavorful, comforting meal in no time. Let’s get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into chunks
- 1 lb pasta (your choice)
- 1 jar Alfredo sauce
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Hatch cheese or any preferred kind)
- 2 tbsp oil
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the chicken chunks to the pan and sauté until fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes.
- Sprinkle half of the taco seasoning packet over the chicken and stir well.
- Cook the Pasta:
- While the chicken is cooking, boil the pasta according to the package instructions, typically 5-8 minutes.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving a cup of pasta water.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- Add the jar of Alfredo sauce to the pan with the chicken.
- Add the remaining taco seasoning and stir to incorporate.
- Add 1 cup of shredded cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and well mixed.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the chicken and sauce.
- Stir everything together. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Finish and Serve:
- Add a generous amount of black pepper to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love It:
- Simple and Quick: This recipe is easy to follow and can be made in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Kid-Friendly: With its creamy and cheesy texture, it’s a hit with toddlers and adults alike.
- Versatile: You can customize it with your favorite type of pasta and cheese.
- Flavorful: The taco seasoning adds a delicious Mexican twist to the classic Alfredo sauce.
- Comfort Food: It’s hearty and comforting, ideal for any meal.
Tips for Making:
- Cut Evenly: Make sure to cut the chicken into even chunks for uniform cooking.
- Pasta Choice: Use any pasta you like – penne, fettuccine, or rotini all work well.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend.
- Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to thin it out to your liking.
How to Store:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.