Save A comforting and flavorful baked pasta dish featuring tender chicken, zesty salsa, and melted cheese for a family-friendly weeknight meal.
This dish quickly became a staple in our home because it combines ease and taste so well
Ingredients
- Pasta: 300 g (10 oz) penne or rotini pasta (regular or gluten-free)
- Chicken: 2 medium boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 400 g 14 oz) diced, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Sauce: 2 cups (500 ml) tomato salsa (mild or spicy as preferred), 1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream, 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken broth
- Cheese: 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- Vegetables & Garnish: 1 small red bell pepper diced, 1/2 red onion diced, 2 tbsp fresh cilantro chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Lightly grease a 23x33 cm (9x13 inch) baking dish.
- Step 2:
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 3:
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add diced chicken, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 6 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Step 4:
- Add the diced bell pepper and red onion to the skillet sauté for 2 3 minutes until slightly softened. Remove from heat.
- Step 5:
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken and veggies, salsa, sour cream, and chicken broth. Mix well to coat evenly.
- Step 6:
- Spread half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Top with the remaining pasta mixture, then sprinkle with the rest of the cheeses.
- Step 7:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Step 8:
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired. Serve hot.
Pin it This recipe always brings my family together around the table for a warm and satisfying meal
Notes
For a spicier kick, use hot salsa or add chopped jalapeños. Black beans or corn can be added for extra texture. Pairs well with a crisp green salad or garlic bread.
Required Tools
Large pot, large skillet, mixing bowl, 23x33 cm (9x13 inch) baking dish, knife and cutting board, cheese grater
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (unless using gluten free pasta), Milk (cheese sour cream). May contain Soy (in processed cheese) check salsa for allergens. Always double check ingredient labels if you have food allergies.
Pin it This baked salsa chicken pasta is a delicious way to spice up your dinner routine
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can gluten-free pasta be used?
Yes, gluten-free penne or rotini pasta work well without compromising taste or texture.
- → How to achieve a spicier flavor?
Use hot salsa or add chopped jalapeños to the mix before baking for extra heat.
- → What cheese combinations are recommended?
Shredded cheddar and mozzarella blend offers gooey melt and rich flavor, but feel free to experiment.
- → Can this dish be prepared ahead?
Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate before baking to save time on busy days.
- → What side dishes complement this meal?
Fresh green salads or garlic bread pair nicely, balancing the hearty pasta flavors.
- → Is it possible to lighten the sauce?
Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy finish without losing creaminess.