Fiesta Chicken Pasta Bake
User Reviews
4.6
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
30 mins
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Total Time
40 mins
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Servings
8 servings
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Course
Main Course
Fiesta Chicken Pasta Bake
Description
The recipe begins by cooking pasta to al dente, which is then combined with salsa, sour cream, and taco seasoning creating a creamy and slightly spicy sauce. Canned black beans and corn add texture and mild sweetness, while shredded cooked chicken provides protein. A blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese is mixed in and sprinkled on top to develop a bubbly, golden cheese crust during baking.
The mixture is transferred to a baking dish and baked covered initially, then uncovered for the cheese topping to melt and brown lightly. The end result is a cohesive baked pasta dish with creamy, tangy, and savory flavors harmonized with Mexican-seasoned ingredients.
Optional garnishes like fresh cilantro or sliced green onions add a fresh herbal contrast to the cheesy, rich casserole. This dish serves well as a filling main course suitable for sharing or meal prepping.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces fusili pasta , uncooked (can also use any other pasta shape)
- 1 cup salsa thick and chunky
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning Old El Paso brand
- 1 (15 ounce) can whole kernel corn drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans drained and rinsed
- 2 cups chicken rotisserie chicken works well here, cooked and shredded
- 2 cups Monterey jack cheese divided (or use all cheddar, shredded
- 2 cups cheddar cheese divided (or use all cheddar, shredded
- cilantro optional, or sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta al dente according to package instructions. Will yield about 4 cups cooked pasta. Drain and cool.
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl stir together the salsa, sour cream, and taco seasoning. Add the cooked pasta and stir to coat.
- Add the corn, black beans, chicken, and 1 cup of the cheese. Toss to combine and pour into a 9x13 baking dish. Sprinkle remaining 1 cup of cheese on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Take off foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes or until cheese is bubbly. Garnish with cilantro or green onions if desired.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.6
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