Description
This Chicken Enchilada Pasta is a quick and easy one-pan meal with a zesty, Mexican-inspired twist! Tender chicken, pasta, black beans, and corn simmer in a flavorful enchilada sauce, creating a satisfying and cheesy dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/4-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 tablespoon minced garlic (about 2 cloves)
- 2 cups diced red bell pepper
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained (low or no salt)
- 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
- 3 cups rotini pasta (10 oz)
- 1/2 cup enchilada sauce (red or green)
- 3 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional garnishes: sour cream, fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Brown Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot or skillet over medium-high heat. Add cubed chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add onions, garlic, and red bell peppers to the pot. Sauté until softened.
- Simmer with Pasta and Sauce: Return chicken to the pot. Add pasta, black beans, corn, enchilada sauce, and chicken broth. Stir, cover, and bring to a simmer. Uncover, reduce heat to medium, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring frequently, until pasta is cooked al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Finish and Serve: Turn off heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with sour cream and fresh cilantro, if desired.
Notes
- For spicier flavor, add extra enchilada sauce or diced jalapeños.
- Garnish with sour cream and fresh cilantro for added creaminess and flavor.
- Substitute chicken with boneless, skinless thighs or cubed pork roast.
- Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version (adjust cooking time as needed).
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 80mg