Are you tired of the same old chicken recipes? Are you looking for something with a little more flavor and excitement? Look no further than this recipe for Green Chili and Cheese Chicken! With tender chicken breast, spicy green chilies, and gooey melted cheese, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your dinner rotation. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this delicious meal!
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast
- 1 Tbsp (16g) Olive Oil
- 2 tsp Paprika
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Onion Powder
- 1 tsp Ground Cumin
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz Banza Pasta Shells
- 8 oz Diced Green Chiles
- 1/2 cup Milk
- 8 oz Sharp Cheddar, finely shredded
Optional Crisp Topping:
- 1/4 cup (30g) Breadcrumbs
- 1 Tbsp (16g) Olive Oil
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and ground cumin.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- Cook the Banza pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
- In a saucepan, combine the diced green chilies and milk. Heat over medium heat until warmed through.
- Gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring constantly, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Place the cooked chicken breasts in a baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the chicken.
- Add the cooked pasta shells to the baking dish, stirring gently to combine with the sauce.
Step 5: Optional Crisp Topping
- In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and olive oil. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the chicken and pasta.
Step 6: Bake
- Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Step 7: Serve
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions, if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of diced green chilies to suit your taste preferences. For a milder dish, reduce the amount of chilies, or omit them altogether.
- Protein Options: Feel free to substitute boneless skinless chicken thighs or turkey breast for the chicken breast if desired.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack, for a unique flavor twist.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Replace the Banza pasta shells with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles to reduce the carb content.
- Use heavy cream instead of milk for a richer, keto-friendly sauce.
Low-Carb Version:
- Skip the breadcrumbs topping to keep the dish low in carbs.
- Serve the chicken and cheese sauce over a bed of steamed cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken for convenience. Simply skip the initial cooking step and proceed with assembling the dish as directed.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the components of this dish ahead of time and assemble it when ready to bake. Store the cooked chicken, pasta, and cheese sauce separately in the refrigerator, then assemble and bake when needed.
Q: Is this dish spicy? A: The level of spiciness can be adjusted based on the amount of diced green chilies used. Feel free to reduce or increase the amount to suit your taste preferences.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze any leftovers of this dish. Transfer them to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
In conclusion, this Green Chili and Cheese Chicken is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for dinner any night of the week. With tender chicken, spicy green chilies, and creamy cheese sauce, it’s sure to please the whole family. Plus, with options for keto and low-carb variations, it’s easy to customize to fit your dietary needs. So why wait? Give this delicious recipe a try and enjoy a tasty and wholesome meal that’s sure to become a new favorite!
