Pin it The kitchen smelled incredible before I even got the oil hot that Tuesday evening. My roommate walked in, nose in the air, asking what restaurant I had ordered from. When I showed her the skillet bubbling away, she laughed and immediately grabbed a fork.
My brother visited last month and ate three bowls, taking a fourth portion for lunch the next day. He kept calling it the best mashup he had ever tasted, though I suspect he was just happy someone else was doing the cooking.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: Cutting them into bite-sized pieces helps them cook evenly and get beautifully crispy on all edges
- Smoked paprika and cumin: These spices create that authentic Tex-Mex flavor profile, so do not skip or substitute them
- Penne or rigatoni pasta: The tubular shape catches all the sauce and beans in every single bite
- Black beans and corn: These add texture and make the dish feel substantial without needing much meat
- A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack: Using two cheeses gives you sharpness plus perfect meltability
Instructions
- Season the chicken pieces:
- Toss the cubed chicken with all the spices until evenly coated, letting them cling to the meat
- Sear the chicken:
- Cook in hot oil until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 6 to 8 minutes, then remove to a plate
- Build the base:
- Sauté the onion and bell pepper until softened, then add garlic for just 1 minute until fragrant
- Add the beans and corn:
- Stir in the drained tomatoes, black beans, and frozen corn until everything is well combined
- Cook the pasta directly in the skillet:
- Pour in the broth and uncooked pasta, cover, and simmer until the pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed
- Melt in the first layer of cheese:
- Stir in half of each cheese until completely melted and creamy
- Add the chicken back and top with remaining cheese:
- Return chicken to the skillet, sprinkle remaining cheese on top, cover for 2 minutes or broil until bubbly
- Garnish before serving:
- Top with sliced spring onions, fresh cilantro, and serve with sour cream and lime wedges
Pin it This became my go-to when friends drop by unexpectedly because it looks impressive but comes together in under an hour. Last week my neighbor texted me the recipe, saying her family was demanding it for dinner again.
Making It Ahead
The flavors actually develop overnight, so this tastes even better as leftovers. I always make a double batch when meal prepping for the week.
Customizing Your Burrito Pasta
Sometimes I add diced jalapeños if I am craving extra heat, or swap in pepper jack cheese for a spicier kick. The beauty of this dish is how easily it adapts to what your family likes.
Serving Suggestions
A crisp lager or classic margarita pairs perfectly with this hearty pasta. I also like to serve it with a simple green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Set up a garnish bar so everyone can add their own toppings
- Warm your serving bowls in the oven to keep the pasta hotter longer
- Serve with extra lime wedges on the side for brightening each bowl
Pin it Hope this becomes your weeknight favorite too. There is something magical about watching people dig into this with such enthusiasm.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully and stay more moist during cooking. Cut them into similar bite-sized pieces and follow the same cooking time, adding an extra minute or two if needed until fully cooked through.
- → How do I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply substitute the penne or rigatoni with gluten-free pasta of your choice. The cooking time may vary slightly, so follow the pasta package instructions and adjust the simmering time accordingly to achieve al dente texture.
- → What can I do for extra crispiness on the cheese topping?
After sprinkling the remaining cheese on top, place the skillet under a preheated broiler for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned. Watch carefully to prevent burning and use an oven-safe skillet for this method.
- → Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately. However, it's best to cook the pasta dish fresh just before serving to maintain optimal texture and prevent the pasta from becoming mushy.
- → What are suitable side dish pairings?
Serve alongside a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or warm tortillas to complete the Tex-Mex experience. A cold beverage like a crisp lager, margarita, or lime agua fresca pairs beautifully with the bold flavors.
- → How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture, or microwave covered with a damp paper towel until warmed through.