This Easy Mexican Chicken Spaghetti is a fun twist on classic pasta! With tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and zesty salsa, it’s a dish that’s big on flavor.
You’ll love how simple it is to whip up! I like to toss in some cheese on top for extra creaminess. Perfect for a weeknight meal when you’re craving something tasty and quick!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: I like using regular spaghetti, but you can swap it for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type you choose.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breast is great, but feel free to use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. Shredded or diced leftover chicken works perfectly here.
Salsa: The salsa adds amazing flavor. If you don’t have salsa, you could use diced tomatoes with a little extra seasoning. Just add some chopped bell peppers for a fresh kick.
Cheddar Cheese: While cheddar cheese is delicious, you could also use Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a bit of spice. If you want it extra creamy, you could mix in some cream cheese.
How Do You Cook Chicken Perfectly?
Cooking chicken so it’s juicy and tender is key in this recipe. Here’s an easy way to do it:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat for a couple of minutes.
- Add your diced chicken, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. This helps it cook evenly.
- Cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is no longer pink inside. Use a meat thermometer; it’s done when it reaches 165°F (75°C).
Let the chicken rest for a minute before adding other ingredients, as it helps keep it tender.
Easy Mexican Chicken Spaghetti
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1 cup salsa (mild or medium heat depending on preference)
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 30 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping ingredients and 20 minutes cooking. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick and tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
Start by cooking the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside. This will be the base of our dish!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken pieces and cook them for about 6-8 minutes or until they are no longer pink inside. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
3. Add the Flavors:
Once the chicken is cooked, add the diced tomatoes, salsa, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir everything well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors can mix nicely.
4. Combine with Spaghetti:
Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet. Toss everything together gently, making sure the noodles are evenly coated with the delicious sauce from the chicken mixture.
5. Make it Creamy:
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the sour cream or Mexican crema. This adds a lovely creaminess to your dish!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the chicken spaghetti onto plates. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top while it’s warm so it melts beautifully. Finish with sliced green onions as a fresh garnish.
Enjoy your warm and flavorful Mexican Chicken Spaghetti!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you have leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken on hand, just shred or dice it and add it to the sauce. This will save you time and still give you a delicious result!
What Can I Substitute for Spaghetti?
If you’re looking for a different base, you can substitute spaghetti with whole wheat pasta, penne, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the pasta or vegetable you choose.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Yes! If you like more heat, consider using hot salsa instead of mild, or add extra chili powder and some diced jalapeños. You can also top it with sliced fresh jalapeños or serve it with a side of hot sauce!