Chicken Enchilada Pasta

There’s something magical about comfort food, and one of my absolute favorites is Chicken Enchilada Pasta. This dish combines the heartiness of pasta with the bold flavors of enchiladas, creating a delightful meal that warms not just the stomach but the soul. I remember the first time I made it; I was looking for something quick and satisfying yet packed with flavor. The aroma of sautéed onions and green chilies filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy Mexican restaurant. As I stirred the creamy sauce, I couldn’t help but smile, knowing this was going to be a hit with my family. It’s a dish that brings everyone around the table, sharing laughs and stories, making it perfect for any gathering.

Ingredients for Chicken Enchilada Pasta

When it comes to the ingredients for this Chicken Enchilada Pasta, each one plays a crucial role in creating a delightful harmony of flavors and textures. The key players are the angel hair pasta, which cooks quickly and absorbs all the delicious sauce, and the chicken, which adds protein and heartiness to the dish. The creole seasoning brings a lovely kick, while the sour cream and shredded Jack cheese provide creaminess that ties everything together perfectly.

• Angel hair pasta – This delicate pasta cooks in just a few minutes, making it a perfect base for the dish.
• Olive oil – Used for sautéing, it adds a rich flavor to the dish.
• Butter – Enhances the sauce’s creaminess and adds additional depth of flavor.
• Onion – Provides a sweet and savory base, caramelizing beautifully when sautéed.
• Green chilies – Adds a subtle heat and a burst of flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• Creole seasoning – This spice blend brings a delightful kick and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• All purpose flour – Thickens the sauce, giving it a creamy consistency.
• Chicken broth – Adds moisture and flavor, creating a delicious base for the sauce.
• Chicken breasts – Cooked and shredded, they provide protein and heartiness.
• Sour cream – Adds creaminess and a tangy flavor that balances the dish.
• Shredded Jack cheese – Melts beautifully and adds richness to the sauce.
• Optional toppings: sliced black olives, chopped cilantro – These add freshness and a pop of color to the finished dish.

Putting Together Chicken Enchilada Pasta

Making Chicken Enchilada Pasta is as enjoyable as eating it! Follow these steps to create a dish that’s sure to impress. You’ll start by cooking the pasta, then move on to creating the creamy sauce that ties everything together.

1. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil for the angel hair pasta. You want to make sure the water is bubbling vigorously before adding the pasta. Once it’s boiling, add a pinch of salt to season the pasta.

2. In another large pot, heat some olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Watch as the butter melts and begins to bubble; this is the perfect time to add the next ingredients.

3. Add the chopped onion and green chilies into the pot. Sauté them for about seven minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent. You want them soft but not browned for the best flavor.

4. Now it’s time to add the all purpose flour. Stir it into the mixture and let it cook for about a minute. This process helps eliminate the raw flour taste and begins the thickening process.

5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. The sauce should start to thicken up nicely at this point. Make sure to keep stirring to prevent any lumps from forming.

6. Add the chicken breasts, seasoned with creole seasoning. Let it simmer over medium heat for about 15 to 20 minutes. You want the chicken to be fully cooked and tender, so keep an eye on it.

7. While the chicken is cooking, go back to your boiling pot and add the angel hair pasta. Cook it until al dente, which usually takes around three to four minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

8. Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Then return the shredded chicken to the saucy mixture.

9. Add the sour cream and one cup of shredded Jack cheese to the chicken mixture. Stir until everything is well combined and let it simmer for another five minutes. The sauce should be creamy and rich at this stage.

10. Finally, add the drained angel hair pasta to the pot and stir gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Serve it hot, garnished with additional shredded cheese, cilantro, and sliced black olives if desired.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

One of the greatest things about the Chicken Enchilada Pasta is its versatility. Here are some ways you can adapt this recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will last about three to four days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the pasta before adding the sour cream and cheese. Just thaw and heat gently before adding the creamy components.
• Pairing: Serve it with a fresh green salad or cornbread to complement the flavors.
• Variations: Consider adding black beans or corn for extra texture and nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add more green chilies or a splash of hot sauce for some extra heat.

Accompaniments for Chicken Enchilada Pasta

When serving Chicken Enchilada Pasta, consider a few side dishes and serving styles to elevate your meal.

• Fresh salad: A crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the pasta.
• Savory cornbread: The hint of sweetness from cornbread complements the spicy notes in the pasta.
• Guacamole: A side of creamy guacamole adds a fresh and tasty contrast to the dish.
• Perfect for gatherings: This meal is ideal for potlucks or family gatherings, bringing everyone together over a hearty dish.
• Festive occasions: Serve this dish during family celebrations or casual dinner parties to impress your guests.
• Leftover magic: Store any leftovers in the fridge and enjoy them the next day for a quick lunch option!

FAQ

Conclusion

The Chicken Enchilada Pasta stands out for its comforting flavors and ease of preparation. It’s an unbeatable option for both busy nights and special gatherings. I encourage you to give it a try; it’s sure to become a cherished dish in your household. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share the joy with family and friends!

Chicken Enchilada Pasta

The ultimate comfort food, Chicken Enchilada Pasta combines creamy, cheesy goodness with the bold flavors of enchiladas. This easy weeknight dinner will satisfy your cravings and create lasting memories around the dinner table. Make it tonight for a delightful family meal!

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 520

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 8 oz Angel hair pasta
• 2 tbsp Olive oil
• 2 tbsp Butter
• 1 cup Onion
• 1 cup Green chilies
• 1 tbsp Creole seasoning
• 1 tbsp All purpose flour
• 2 cup Chicken broth
• 2 cup Chicken breasts
• 1 cup Sour cream
• 1 cup Shredded Jack cheese
• 1 cup Optional toppings: sliced black olives, chopped cilantro

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Mixing Bowl
• Large Pot
• Chef's Knife
• Saucepan

Method

 

1. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil for the angel hair pasta. You want to make sure the water is bubbling vigorously before adding the pasta. Once it’s boiling, add a pinch of salt to season the pasta.
2. In another large pot, heat some olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Watch as the butter melts and begins to bubble; this is the perfect time to add the next ingredients.
3. Add the chopped onion and green chilies into the pot. Sauté them for about seven minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent. You want them soft but not browned for the best flavor.
4. Now it’s time to add the all purpose flour. Stir it into the mixture and let it cook for about a minute. This process helps eliminate the raw flour taste and begins the thickening process.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. The sauce should start to thicken up nicely at this point. Make sure to keep stirring to prevent any lumps from forming.
6. Add the chicken breasts, seasoned with creole seasoning. Let it simmer over medium heat for about 15 to 20 minutes. You want the chicken to be fully cooked and tender, so keep an eye on it.
7. While the chicken is cooking, go back to your boiling pot and add the angel hair pasta. Cook it until al dente, which usually takes around three to four minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
8. Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Then return the shredded chicken to the saucy mixture.
9. Add the sour cream and one cup of shredded Jack cheese to the chicken mixture. Stir until everything is well combined and let it simmer for another five minutes. The sauce should be creamy and rich at this stage.
10. Finally, add the drained angel hair pasta to the pot and stir gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Serve it hot, garnished with additional shredded cheese, cilantro, and sliced black olives if desired.

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will last about three to four days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the pasta before adding the sour cream and cheese. Just thaw and heat gently before adding the creamy components.
• Pairing: Serve it with a fresh green salad or cornbread to complement the flavors.
• Variations: Consider adding black beans or corn for extra texture and nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add more green chilies or a splash of hot sauce for some extra heat.

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Meet Sadie Mitchell

The Mood Catcher I’m our lead photographer, but my camera is just another tool in the kitchen, right next to my knife and whisk! I am obsessed with capturing the feeling of a meal the steam rising off a bowl or the golden light on a loaf of bread. I cook and style every shoot with the team, ensuring that the photo tells you exactly how cozy and delicious the food will taste.