Santa Fe Chicken Pasta Copycat

Savor the bold Southwestern flavors of the Santa Fe Chicken Pasta Copycat, a restaurant-inspired dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or indulgent family dinners. This creamy and zesty pasta features tender, spice-rubbed chicken tossed with al dente penne, vibrant bell peppers, sweet corn, and a luscious cheese-infused sauce. Seasoned with smoky paprika, cumin, and chili powder, the dish is bursting with warm, comforting flavors and a touch of heat. A squeeze of fresh lime and a sprinkle of cilantro add the perfect finishing touch. Ready in just 40 minutes, this one-pan wonder is sure to become a go-to favorite.

Nutriscore Rating: 65/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb chicken breast
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• 4 lime wedges (optional, for serving)

Directions

Step 1

Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized cubes. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, cumin, and chili powder.

Step 3

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4

In the same skillet, add minced garlic, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and corn. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Step 5

Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and tomato paste. Simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 6

Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to coat it with the sauce.

Step 7

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and creamy.

Step 8

Toss the cooked penne pasta with the sauce and chicken mixture until evenly coated.

Step 9

Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2066.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4105.1

Total Fat 202.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 101.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.9g
Cholesterol 851.2mg	0%
Sodium 6038.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 328.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 26.7g	0%
Total Sugars 28.1g
Protein 241.1g	0%

Vitamin D 24IU	0%
Calcium 1789.0mg	0%
Iron 22.2mg	0%
Potassium 3837.4mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 44.4%

Protein: 23.5%

Carbs: 32.1%