Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tbsp olive oil
1–2 tbsp taco seasoning
½ tsp Slap Ya Mama Cajun seasoning (optional, for heat)
1 tbsp oil (for cooking)
1 tbsp butter (for cooking)
For the Pasta:
1 lb rotini pasta (or pasta of choice)
1 tbsp chicken-flavored bouillon (for pasta water)
For the Sauce:
1 tbsp butter
1 each diced red, orange, and green bell pepper (or any combo you like)
4–5 garlic cloves, minced
1 red onion, diced
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
10 oz can Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
1.5 cups heavy cream (adjust as needed for sauce thickness)
12 oz cubed Velveeta cheese
4 oz shredded pepper jack cheese
4 oz shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 tsp additional taco seasoning (to taste)
Directions:
Cook the Chicken:
In a bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, taco seasoning, and optional Cajun seasoning.
Heat 1 tbsp of oil and 1 tbsp of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the chicken-flavored bouillon and stir. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add the diced peppers, onion, and garlic. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Sauté for about 8–10 minutes, until the veggies are softened and fragrant.
Stir in the can of Rotel, then pour in the heavy cream. Add the cubed Velveeta and stir until melted and smooth. Mix in the shredded pepper jack and cheddar cheeses, stirring until fully incorporated into a creamy, cheesy sauce.
Bring It All Together:
Add the cooked pasta into the cheesy sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Then fold in the cooked chicken. Stir everything together until well combined and heated through.
Taste and add the additional taco seasoning if needed for extra flavor.
Serve:
Plate up this creamy, cheesy, spicy comfort dish and serve hot. It’s a crowd-pleaser with bold Tex-Mex flavor in every bite!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
