Pin Recipe A comforting and flavorful baked pasta dish featuring tender chicken, zesty salsa, and melted cheese for a family-friendly weeknight meal.
This dish quickly became a favorite in my household because everyone loves the cheesy, spicy flavors all baked into one meal.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 300 g (10 oz) penne or rotini pasta (regular or gluten-free)
- Chicken: 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 400 g / 14 oz), diced, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Sauce: 2 cups (500 ml) tomato salsa (mild or spicy, as preferred), 1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream, 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken broth
- Cheese: 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- Vegetables & Garnish: 1 small red bell pepper, diced, 1/2 red onion, diced, 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Lightly grease a 23x33 cm (9x13 inch) baking dish.
- Step 2:
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 3:
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Step 4:
- Add the diced bell pepper and red onion to the skillet sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly softened. Remove from heat.
- Step 5:
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken and veggies, salsa, sour cream, and chicken broth. Mix well to coat evenly.
- Step 6:
- Spread half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Top with the remaining pasta mixture, then sprinkle with the rest of the cheeses.
- Step 7:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Step 8:
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired. Serve hot.
Pin Recipe Preparing this meal has brought my family together many evenings as we enjoy the delicious, cheesy flavors while catching up on our day.
Notes
For a spicier kick, use hot salsa or add chopped jalapeños. Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter version. Black beans or corn can be added for extra texture. Pairs well with a crisp green salad or garlic bread.
Required Tools
Large pot, large skillet, mixing bowl, 23x33 cm (9x13 inch) baking dish, knife and cutting board, cheese grater
Nutritional Information
Calories 540, Total Fat 22 g, Carbohydrates 49 g, Protein 35 g (per serving)
Pin Recipe This baked salsa chicken pasta brings vibrant flavors with simple ingredients, perfect for any busy evening.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of pasta works best?
Penne or rotini, regular or gluten-free, work well as they hold sauce and bake evenly.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, use mild or spicy salsa and add jalapeños for extra heat if desired.
- → How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Cook chicken until just browned to keep it tender, then bake with cheese and salsa to retain moisture.
- → What are good substitutions for sour cream?
Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter, tangy alternative without altering texture much.
- → Can vegetables be added?
Yes, diced bell pepper and red onion are included; you can also add corn or black beans for texture.