Creamy Southwest Chicken Linguine: Your New Favorite 30-Minute Weeknight Dinner
Prepare to fall in love with this incredibly creamy Southwest Chicken Linguine, a pasta dish that brings vibrant Southwestern flavors right to your dinner table. It’s packed with succulent grilled chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a fresh bite from green onions, all harmonized by a perfectly spiced, velvety sauce. The secret to its distinctive Southwestern kick lies in the addition of Rotel tomatoes, infusing every forkful with a delightful blend of heat and tang. This chicken pasta recipe has quickly become a cherished family favorite, and the best part? You can have it on the table in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights!
Pasta is a staple in many households, and ours is no exception. It’s one of those universally loved meals that guarantees clean plates and happy faces. So, when a new pasta dish earns a permanent spot in our meal rotation, you know it’s something special that I simply must share! This Southwest Chicken Linguine captured my heart from the very first bite. Imagine tender linguine tossed in a lusciously creamy sauce, subtly spiced by Rotel tomatoes, then loaded with savory grilled chicken, tender sautéed mushrooms, and crisp green onions. The combination of textures and flavors is absolutely divine, making it a truly swoon-worthy experience!
The inspiration for this fantastic recipe comes from my talented foodie friend, Brandi, over at Aunt Bee’s Recipes. She initially shared this dish a few years ago during a Mother’s Day recipe exchange, and I was immediately intrigued by the unique blend of ingredients. As a passionate pasta lover, I’m always on the lookout for new ways to enjoy it, though I often find traditional heavy cream sauces, like a classic Alfredo, can be a bit too rich for my preference. Brandi assured me that this recipe was different, and she was absolutely right! This sauce offers all the creamy goodness without the excessive heaviness often associated with Alfredo. Perhaps I’m one of the few who isn’t a massive Alfredo fan, but this dish truly hits the spot. While her original recipe was called “Southwestern Chicken Linguine Alfredo,” I’ve chosen to omit the “Alfredo” from my title to highlight its distinct, lighter cream sauce profile.
I’m genuinely thrilled to have discovered this recipe, and my entire family shares my enthusiasm. Its versatility is another major plus. For a delicious meatless alternative, you can simply omit the chicken, making it a perfect option for Lent or for anyone looking to reduce their meat intake. The robust flavors of the sauce and vegetables ensure it’s equally satisfying without the poultry. Of course, if you’re a devout chicken enthusiast, you’ll definitely want to explore my comprehensive 20+ Family Favorite Chicken Recipes round-up. It’s a treasure trove of chicken dishes, offering endless ideas for both fresh and leftover chicken, ensuring you’re never short on inspiration.
Essential Ingredients for Southwest Chicken Linguine
Creating this flavorful Southwest Chicken Linguine requires a selection of fresh, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to form a harmonious and satisfying meal. You’ll find precise measurements and detailed instructions in the printable recipe card at the very bottom of this post.
- Skinless Chicken Breasts: We recommend grilling and slicing boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture. The smoky char from grilling adds a wonderful depth to the dish. For those evenings when time is of the essence, feel free to substitute with 1.5 pounds of pre-cooked frozen grilled chicken fajita meat, or even shredded leftover rotisserie chicken. My friend Brandi has a special grilled chicken marinade she swears by, but my go-to shortcut is always quality freezer items when I’m in a pinch.
- Butter: I typically use salted butter for an extra layer of flavor, but unsalted butter works just as well. If you opt for unsalted, simply adjust the amount of salt added to the dish later to taste. Butter provides a rich base for sautéing our aromatics.
- Mushrooms: Freshly sliced mushrooms contribute a fantastic meaty texture and umami flavor that complements the chicken and creamy sauce. While white button mushrooms are a classic choice, baby bella (cremini) mushrooms would be a superb alternative, offering a slightly deeper, earthier note.
- Onion: A large, diced sweet onion is my preference for its mellow sweetness that balances the spices. However, a red onion can also be used for a sharper flavor and a pop of color.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is always recommended for its pungent aroma and robust flavor, which truly elevates the sauce. If fresh isn’t available, jarred minced garlic can be used as a convenient substitute.
- Diced Tomatoes: One can of diced tomatoes, undrained, adds a bright acidity and chunks of tomato that are essential to the sauce’s body and flavor. Don’t drain them, as the liquid is crucial for the sauce.
- Rotel Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: This is where the “Southwestern” kick comes from! I use one can of mild Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, also undrained. The beauty of Rotel is that you can easily control the heat level of your sauce by choosing mild, original, or hot varieties, catering to your family’s spice preferences.
- Salt and Pepper: These fundamental seasonings are vital for enhancing all the other flavors in the dish. Start with the suggested amounts and adjust to your personal taste at the end.
- Heavy Cream: Heavy cream is what gives this pasta dish its luxurious, rich, and creamy texture without being overly thick or cloying. It binds all the flavors together beautifully.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty, and umami depth to the sauce. It’s incorporated into the dish and also serves as an excellent garnish, bringing a final flourish of flavor.
- Linguine Noodles: Long, flat linguine noodles are the traditional choice for this recipe, providing the perfect surface to cling to the rich sauce. Cook them al dente for the ideal bite. If you don’t have linguine, other long, flat pasta shapes like fettuccine or even spaghetti can be used successfully.
- Green Onions: Sliced green onions are not just a garnish; they add a fresh, mild oniony flavor and a vibrant pop of color, making the finished Southwest Chicken Linguine even more appealing.
How To Prepare Southwest Chicken Linguine Pasta
Creating this delightful Southwest Chicken Linguine is surprisingly simple and quick, making it a fantastic meal for any day of the week. Follow these straightforward steps to achieve a perfectly creamy and flavorful pasta dish:
Step One: Begin by melting the butter in a large, sturdy skillet over medium-high heat. Allow it to melt completely until it shimmers, signaling it’s ready for the next step. A good quality, heavy-bottomed skillet will ensure even heat distribution.
Step Two: Once the butter is melted, add the sliced mushrooms and diced onions to the skillet. Sauté them, stirring occasionally, until they have softened and the onions become translucent, which typically takes about 10 minutes. The mushrooms will release their moisture and then begin to turn golden. Next, stir in the minced garlic and continue cooking for just one minute more, stirring constantly to prevent it from burning and to ensure its fragrant oils are released. This aromatic base is crucial for the sauce’s flavor.
Step Three: Into the skillet, add both the diced tomatoes (undrained) and the Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (also undrained). The liquid from the cans is essential for building the sauce. Season with salt and pepper. Allow the mixture to continue cooking and simmering for another 5 minutes, giving the flavors time to meld and deepen.
Step Four: Reduce the heat to a steady medium-low. Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together gently. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce begins to thicken slightly. This process usually takes about 10 additional minutes. The sauce will become lusciously creamy and coat the back of a spoon. Be patient here; a gentle simmer prevents the cream from separating.
Step Five: While your sauce is simmering and thickening, cook your linguine noodles. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions until it is al dente – tender but still firm to the bite. Timing this alongside your sauce preparation ensures everything is ready at the same time for optimal freshness.
Step Six: Once the pasta is cooked and drained, add it directly to the prepared creamy sauce in the skillet. Toss thoroughly to ensure every strand of linguine is beautifully coated in the flavorful sauce. Serve immediately, topping each portion generously with your sliced grilled chicken and a vibrant sprinkle of fresh green onions for both flavor and visual appeal.
Love it? Pin it for Later!
Don’t let this fantastic Southwest Chicken Linguine pasta recipe get lost in the shuffle! Make sure to save it for future dinner inspiration by pinning it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board before you leave. This way, you’ll always have this quick, creamy, and flavorful meal idea at your fingertips!
Customizable Substitutions and Variations
One of the best aspects of this Southwest Chicken Linguine is how adaptable it is. Feel free to get creative with these delicious substitutions and variations to tailor the dish to your taste or dietary needs:
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Vegetarian Alternative: For a hearty and flavorful meatless option, simply swap the chicken for black beans, pinto beans, or even pan-fried tofu. Roasted sweet potatoes or bell peppers would also make a delicious addition.
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Boost the Southwest Flavor: To intensify the classic Southwestern taste, sprinkle a generous amount of chili powder, smoked paprika, or a blend of cumin and coriander over each dish before serving. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can also add a creamy, tangy finish.
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Mexican-Inspired Twist: For an even more pronounced Mexican flavor profile, stir in a tablespoon or two of your favorite taco seasoning or fajita seasoning mix along with the tomatoes. This will add layers of savory spice.
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Cheesy Changes: While Parmesan offers a classic touch, experiment with different cheeses! Monterey Jack cheese, sharp cheddar, a Mexican blend, or even mozzarella cheese would melt beautifully into the sauce, adding a new dimension of creaminess and flavor.
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Pasta Play: Don’t limit yourself to linguine! This sauce is incredibly versatile and pairs well with many pasta shapes. Try penne pasta, bowtie pasta (farfalle), fettuccine, or even a gluten-free pasta option to suit dietary preferences.
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Add a Spicy Kick: If you love heat, ramp up the spice level by adding a pinch or two of cayenne pepper to the sauce. Alternatively, use a “hot” variety of Rotel tomatoes or finely diced fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers for a more intense chili flavor.
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Transform into a Pasta Bake: For a comforting casserole-style meal, turn this into a Southwest Chicken Pasta Bake. After combining the pasta and sauce, stir in additional ingredients like diced red bell pepper, yellow onion, and sweet corn. Transfer to a baking dish, top with plenty of shredded cheese (like cheddar or Monterey Jack), and bake until bubbly and golden brown.
Helpful Tips & Tricks for Perfect Pasta
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Meal Prep Your Chicken: To make this southwest chicken pasta even faster on a busy weeknight, grill or cook extra chicken on the weekend. Dice or slice it into bite-sized pieces and freeze in portions. This way, you always have ready-to-use chicken to simply toss into your pasta.
- Utilize Frozen Grilled Chicken: As mentioned, using pre-cooked frozen grilled chicken fajita meat is a fantastic shortcut. It saves grilling time and often comes pre-seasoned, adding another layer of flavor. Just thaw and heat through before adding to the sauce.
- Serving Versatility: You can serve the sliced grilled chicken on top of each pasta serving for a more elegant presentation, or cut the pieces smaller and toss them directly into the pasta with the sauce for a more integrated dish. Both methods are delicious!
- Freezing for Future Meals: This recipe freezes remarkably well. Portion leftovers into individual freezer-safe containers for quick and easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to restore creaminess.
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Always cook your linguine to al dente. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and lose its desirable texture, especially when mixed with a rich sauce.
- Pasta Water Magic: If your sauce seems too thick, reserve about a cup of the starchy pasta cooking water before draining the linguine. A tablespoon or two stirred into the sauce can help thin it to the perfect consistency while helping the sauce cling to the pasta.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on the garnishes! Freshly chopped green onions not only add visual appeal but also a fresh, mild oniony crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or extra Parmesan cheese also works wonders.
More Southwestern Recipes to Explore
If you find yourself captivated by the bold and vibrant flavors of the Southwest, you’ll undoubtedly adore these other delicious recipes. They offer a variety of ways to enjoy that unique culinary zest!
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- Southwestern Sausage Brunch Roll-Ups: These delightful roll-ups feature flaky puff pastry dough wrapped around savory breakfast sausage links, fluffy scrambled eggs infused with green chilies, and melted Monterey Jack cheese. Baked to golden-brown perfection, they are an excellent make-ahead option for brunches or gatherings.
- Pinto Bean Soup – (pictured above) A comforting and robust bean soup with a distinct Southwestern flair. You’ll appreciate the wholesome heartiness of this soup, which is incredibly simple to prepare, especially when made in the slow cooker, allowing the flavors to deepen effortlessly.
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Southwest Chipotle Stuffed Peppers – These sweet bell peppers, generously filled with a zesty Southwestern-flavored mixture, are guaranteed to be a tasty and exciting new addition to your regular weekly meal plan.
- Southwestern Cole Slaw – A refreshing, mayo-free coleslaw that strikes a perfect balance: a little spicy from jalapeños, subtly smoky from cumin, and gently sweet from honey. It’s a fantastic side dish for any meal.
- Southwest Potato Croquettes – Mashed potatoes are expertly blended with bold Southwest seasonings, then fried until they achieve a wonderfully crispy, golden-brown exterior. Served with a spicy cool green chile ranch dip, these croquettes make for an irresistible appetizer.
- Southwest Spiced Chicken Wings – Crispy, oven-baked chicken wings, marinated in a homemade Southwest Seasoning Mix, are a fabulous addition to any party spread or game-day feast! For a cooling contrast, serve them alongside an Avocado Salsa Verde sauce.
The next time you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing dinner recipe that’s both quick and satisfying, I sincerely hope you give this Southwest Chicken Linguine a try. It masterfully caters to those who adore creamy Alfredo-style dishes while also appealing to those of us who prefer a lighter touch without sacrificing flavor or richness. It’s truly a win-win, offering deliciousness from every angle, making it a reliable and delightful addition to your culinary repertoire!
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Print Recipe
Southwest Chicken Linguine
Equipment
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12-Piece Black Sharp Knife Set with Covers, Cutting Board and Sharpener
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Stainless Steel Pasta Cooker Steamer Multipots, 12 Quart, Silver
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Cuisinart Stainless Steel Pasta Server
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Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet With Assist Handle, 10.25″, Black
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts grilled and sliced. (I used a frozen grilled chicken fajita meat about 1.5 pounds)
- 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter
- 16 ounce sliced fresh mushrooms
- 1 large onion diced I used a sweet onion
- 3 – 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can MILD Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
- 2 teaspoons Salt
- 2 teaspoons Black Pepper
- 16 ounces Heavy Cream
- 1/2 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese plus additional for serving
- 16 ounce Linguine Noodles cooked al dente
- Green Onions for garnishing
Instructions
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In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat.
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Add the mushrooms and onions and saute until softened. About 10 minutes.
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Add the minced garlic and continue cooking for 1 minute stirring constantly.
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Add the UNDRAINED tomatoes, UNDRAINED rotel, salt and pepper. Continue cooking for 5 minutes.
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Reduce heat to medium, add the cream and parmesan cheese, and continue cooking until sauce thickens slightly about 10 more minutes. Stirring occasionally.
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Meanwhile, prepare linguini noodles according to the package directions.
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Toss cooked noodles with prepared sauce.
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Top with sliced grilled chicken and lots of green onions.
Notes
Nutrition
This recipe was originally posted on June 14, 2018. It has been updated to improve user experience and re-shared on June 7, 2023.