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santa fe pasta recipe.

 

🌶️ Santa Fe Pasta Recipe – Creamy, Spicy & Packed with Flavor!

Craving a zesty pasta dish that’s bursting with bold Southwestern flavors? This Santa Fe Pasta recipe is your new go-to! Loaded with juicy chicken, smoky spices, fresh veggies, and a creamy cheesy sauce, it’s a restaurant-style meal you can whip up at home in just 30 minutes.

Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a flavorful pasta for guests, this easy Santa Fe chicken pasta has got you covered. Bonus: It’s customizable, satisfying, and super family-friendly!

🧀 Why You'll Love This Santa Fe Pasta

  • 🌶️ Spicy, smoky, and creamy in every bite
  • 🍝 One-pot comfort food – less mess, more flavor
  • 🥘 Simple ingredients, bold results
  • 🍗 Protein-packed with chicken, cheese, and black beans
  • 🌽 Southwestern twist on classic creamy 

 Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 250g penne or rotini pasta
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 boneless chicken breasts, diced
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned)
  • 1 cup black beans, rinsed
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (optional)
  • Jalapeño slices (optional, for heat)
  • Fresh lime wedges for serving

👩‍🍳 How to Make Santa Fe Pasta – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add diced chicken, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sauté until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

In the same pan, sauté garlic, bell pepper, and corn for 2–3 minutes. Add black beans and stir for another minute.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat. Add chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir in shredded cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet. Toss everything until fully coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Top with cilantro, jalapeños, and a squeeze of lime. Serve hot!

💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Santa Fe Pasta

  • Use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut
  • Add diced tomatoes or green chilies for extra flavor
  • Want it spicy? Go bold with chipotle peppers or hot sauce
  • Great with gluten-free pasta or vegetarian with chickpeas instead of chicken

🥡 Storing & Reheating

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

📋 Santa Fe Pasta Recipe Card

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Southwestern / Tex-Mex
Diet: High protein

Ingredients:

  • 250g penne pasta
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 chicken breasts, diced
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper
  • 1 cup corn
  • 1 cup black beans
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • Salt, pepper, lime, cilantro to taste

Instructions:

  1. Cook pasta, drain, and set aside.
  2. Sauté chicken with spices until cooked. Remove.
  3. Cook garlic, bell pepper, corn, and beans.
  4. Stir in cream, broth, and cheese until creamy.
  5. Combine pasta and chicken. Mix well.
  6. Garnish and serve hot with lime wedges.

📌 Final Thoughts

This Santa Fe pasta recipe is the ultimate fusion of comfort food and bold Southwestern flavor. It’s quick, easy, and sure to be a hit with the whole family. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder perfect for weeknights!

Craving more Tex-Mex inspired meals? Try my Creamy Southwest Chicken Skillet or Chipotle Chicken Tacos!



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