Save to Pinterest A comforting and flavorful baked pasta dish featuring tender chicken, zesty salsa, and melted cheese for a family-friendly weeknight meal.
I first served this dish to my family on a busy weeknight, and it quickly became a favorite for its ease and flavor.
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
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Lightly grease a 23x33 cm (9x13 inch) baking dish.
- Cook pasta:
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook chicken:
- 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.
- Sauté vegetables:
- Add the diced bell pepper and red onion to the skillet; sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly softened. Remove from heat.
- Mix ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken and veggies, salsa, sour cream, and chicken broth. Mix well to coat evenly.
- Assemble dish:
- 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.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and garnish:
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired. Serve hot.
Save to Pinterest This recipe has become a go-to for cozy family dinners, often enjoyed 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
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (unless using gluten-free pasta), milk (cheese, sour cream). May contain soy (in processed cheese), check salsa for allergens. Always double-check ingredient labels if you have food allergies.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 540, Total Fat 22 g, Carbohydrates 49 g, Protein 35 g
Save to Pinterest This baked salsa chicken pasta is a flavorful and easy meal perfect for busy nights and family gatherings.
Ask About This Recipe
- → Can I use gluten-free pasta for this dish?
Yes, gluten-free penne or rotini can be used without affecting the overall flavor and texture.
- → How can I make this dish spicier?
Use hot salsa or add chopped jalapeños when mixing the ingredients to increase the heat.
- → Is it possible to substitute sour cream in the sauce?
Greek yogurt works well as a lighter alternative without compromising creaminess.
- → What type of cheese blend is best for baking?
Combining shredded cheddar and mozzarella provides a balance of sharpness and meltiness.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the mixture and refrigerate before baking. Bake fresh when ready to serve for best texture.
- → Are there suggested side dishes to accompany this meal?
A crisp green salad or garlic bread pairs nicely alongside the baked pasta for a complete meal.