Navajo Chicken Pasta is a dish that combines the rich flavors of the Southwest with the creamy goodness of Italian pasta. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weekday dinner or a special occasion with family and friends. In this article, we will provide you with tips and tricks to make the perfect Navajo Chicken Pasta, answer some frequently asked questions, and provide nutrition facts to help you make informed decisions about your meals.
Table of Contents
What is Navajo Chicken Pasta?
Navajo Chicken Pasta is a recipe that combines chicken, pasta, and a creamy sauce with a touch of Southwest flavor. The dish is typically made with penne pasta, grilled chicken breast, heavy cream, butter, garlic, cumin, chili powder, and grated Parmesan cheese. The sauce is then topped with diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
How to Make Navajo Chicken Pasta
To make Navajo Chicken Pasta, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
Follow these steps to make the dish:
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Grill the chicken breasts for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Transfer to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes. Slice into thin strips.
- In a large saucepan, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant. Add the cumin and chili powder and cook for another minute.
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the saucepan. Toss until the pasta and chicken are coated in the sauce.
- Divide the pasta among serving bowls. Top with diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro.
- Serve and enjoy!
Can I Make Navajo Chicken Pasta Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make Navajo Chicken Pasta ahead of time. Simply cook the pasta and chicken as directed, and prepare the sauce separately. Store the pasta and chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you are ready to serve, heat the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, and add the pasta and chicken. Toss until the pasta and chicken are heated through and coated in the sauce.
What Do People Say About Navajo Chicken Pasta?
Navajo Chicken Pasta has received rave reviews from people who have tried the recipe. Many people love the combination of flavors and the ease of preparation. Some people have added their own twist to the recipe, such as using different types of pasta or adding extra spices. Overall, people have found Navajo Chicken Pasta to be a delicious and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family.
Navajo Chicken Pasta Nutrition Facts
Here is the nutrition information for one serving (based on 6 servings) of Navajo Chicken Pasta:
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 591 |
| Total Fat | 29g |
| Saturated Fat | 14g |
| Cholesterol | 118mg |
| Sodium | 320mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 54g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 3g |
| Protein | 28g |
Conclusion
Navajo Chicken Pasta is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines the flavors of the Southwest with Italian pasta. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and flavorful spices, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you are cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Navajo Chicken Pasta is a recipe that is sure to impress. So, give it a try and enjoy the flavors of the Southwest in your own kitchen!
