Craving a dish that combines the bold flavors of a taco with the comforting, cheesy goodness of pasta? Cheesy Chicken Taco Pasta is your new weeknight hero. This recipe brings together tender chicken, zesty taco seasoning, melty cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, and a medley of veggies all tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta. It’s an easy, one-pot meal that’s sure to please the whole family and get dinner on the table fast. Plus, it’s packed with vibrant colors and textures, making every bite a fiesta of flavor.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

Quick and convenient: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
One-pot wonder: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in a single skillet.
Flavor-packed: Classic taco seasoning and diced tomatoes with green chilies give it a bold, southwestern kick.
Comfort food meets Tex-Mex: Creamy, cheesy sauce coats every penne noodle for ultimate indulgence.
Versatile and customizable: Easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand.

What We’re Using

8 oz penne pasta: The perfect shape to hold onto the cheesy sauce.
1 lb chicken breast, diced: Lean protein that cooks quickly and absorbs all the taco flavors.
2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and building flavor.
1 packet taco seasoning: The heart of the dish, infusing the chicken and sauce with smoky, spicy notes.
1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies: Adds moisture, acidity, and a mild heat.
1 cup chicken broth: Keeps the pasta moist and helps create the sauce.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, key for that classic cheesy taco pasta taste.
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Adds creaminess and balances the cheddar’s sharpness.
1 cup corn kernels: Sweet bursts of flavor, use fresh or frozen.
1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained: Adds protein, fiber, and a creamy texture.
Salt and pepper: To taste, enhancing all the flavors.
Chopped fresh cilantro: Bright garnish that adds freshness and color.

Recommended Tools

Large skillet or sauté pan: A wide pan with a lid works best for cooking the chicken and simmering the pasta.
Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient amounts.
Sharp knife and cutting board: To dice the chicken and chop cilantro.
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: For stirring without scratching your cookware.
Colander: If you prefer to cook the pasta separately.

Cooking Cheesy Chicken Taco Pasta: The Process

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast and sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the pieces. Stir frequently, cooking the chicken until it’s no longer pink inside and has a nice golden color on the outside, about 6-8 minutes.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes, Broth, and Pasta

Once the chicken is cooked, pour in the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies along with the chicken broth. Stir to combine, then add the penne pasta directly to the skillet. Make sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cover with a lid.

Step 3: Simmer Until Pasta is Tender

Allow the pasta to cook until al dente, about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the liquid reduces too quickly, add a splash of extra chicken broth or water.

Step 4: Stir in Corn, Black Beans, and Cheese

When the pasta is almost cooked, stir in the corn kernels and black beans. Then add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring until melted and the sauce is creamy and cheesy.

Step 5: Season and Garnish

Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.

This dish is a fantastic alternative to other cheesy pasta meals like Baked Three Cheese Chicken Penne or the Cheesy Baked Buffalo Chicken Pasta if you’re in the mood for something with a spicy taco twist.

Healthier Substitutions

Swap regular penne for whole wheat or chickpea pasta to boost fiber and protein.
Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt intake.
Reduce cheese quantity or use part-skim varieties for fewer calories and fat.
Include extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrients and volume.
Replace black beans with pinto or kidney beans based on preference and availability.

Pro Tips & Notes

For even quicker prep, buy pre-diced chicken breast from the grocery store.
If you prefer a less saucy pasta, reduce the broth slightly and cook uncovered during the last few minutes.
Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded for better melting and flavor.
Leftovers taste great reheated and often develop deeper flavors overnight.
Try swapping penne for rotini to change up the texture; it works wonderfully in this dish, similar to the Smoky Paprika Chicken Rotini Skillet.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

Store any leftover Cheesy Chicken Taco Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the pasta has thickened up too much.

This dish also freezes well. To freeze, portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned above. The texture may change slightly but will still be delicious.

Ask & Learn

Can I use ground chicken instead of diced chicken breast?

Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great alternative that cooks even faster. Just brown it thoroughly with the taco seasoning before adding the liquids and pasta.

What can I substitute for the diced tomatoes with green chilies?

If you can’t find diced tomatoes with green chilies, regular diced tomatoes with a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper will work well to maintain the dish’s spicy kick.

Is it okay to use canned corn and beans?

Yes, canned corn and black beans are convenient and work well. Just be sure to rinse and drain the beans to reduce excess sodium.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Replace the chicken with extra beans, and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for more texture and flavor. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Our Most-Loved Recipes

Baked Three Cheese Chicken Penne – A creamy baked pasta loaded with three delicious cheeses and tender chicken.
Cheesy Baked Buffalo Chicken Pasta – Kick up your pasta night with spicy buffalo chicken and gooey cheese.
Smoky Paprika Chicken Rotini Skillet – A smoky, flavorful skillet meal with tender chicken and rotini pasta.

Bring It Home

This Cheesy Chicken Taco Pasta is the perfect blend of comfort food and vibrant southwestern flavors that will quickly become a favorite in your dinner rotation. It’s easy to make, packed with delicious ingredients, and can be customized to your taste and dietary preferences. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this dish delivers satisfying, cheesy goodness in every bite. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a simple, hearty meal that everyone will love.

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