Easy Tex-Mex Chicken Mac and Cheese

I’ve got a real winner for you: Tex-Mex Chicken Mac and Cheese.

Now, picture this: creamy, cheesy mac and cheese meets spicy Tex-Mex flavors in one mouthwatering dish. It’s like a fiesta in your mouth!

As a busy mom myself, I know how important it is to whip up meals that are both delicious and easy to make. That’s why this recipe is a game-changer. It’s perfect for those hectic weeknights when you need something quick and satisfying to feed the family.

Plus, who doesn’t love mac and cheese? It’s a classic comfort food that never disappoints. But when you add tender chunks of chicken and a kick of Tex-Mex flair, it takes things to a whole new level of yum.

So, if you’re ready to spice up your dinner routine and impress your loved ones with a meal that’s sure to please, give this Tex-Mex Chicken Mac and Cheese a try. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed! Stay tuned for the full recipe coming your way soon.

Chef’s Notes – Tex-Mex Chicken Mac and Cheese

• Customize Your Heat: Adjust the level of spiciness by choosing mild, medium, or hot diced tomatoes with green chiles.
• Creamy Texture: Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature to easily blend into the sauce, giving it a rich and creamy texture.
• Don’t Overcook Chicken: To prevent dry chicken, cook just until it’s no longer pink in the center. Overcooking can result in tough, chewy meat.
• Double Up for Batch Cooking: Make a double batch and freeze one for later. It’s a time-saving strategy for busy days or unexpected guests.
• Crunchy Topping Tip: For an extra crispy topping, crush tortilla chips just before sprinkling over the casserole. It adds a satisfying crunch to every bite.
• Get Creative with Cheese: Experiment with different cheese blends for varied flavor profiles. Pepper jack or Mexican cheese blends can enhance the Tex-Mex flair.

Tex-Mex Chicken Mac and Cheese

Course: Main CourseCuisine: Southern Recipes, Tex-Mex

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Calories

650

kcal

Resting Time

5

minutes

Total time

55

minutes

Get ready to dive into a sensational Tex-Mex Chicken Mac and Cheese Casserole! This dish is a delightful fusion of creamy mac and cheese with the bold flavors of a classic King Ranch casserole. Perfect for chilly evenings, this recipe is loaded with tender chicken, zesty tomatoes, and a crunchy tortilla chip topping. It’s comfort food at its finest, and it’s sure to become a family favorite. Inspired by Southern Living, this version adds garlic and cilantro for an extra kick. Don’t miss out on this mouthwatering casserole that’s easy to make and perfect for freezing!

Ingredients

• Pasta & Chicken

• 8 ounces small pasta shapes (elbows or penne work well)

• 3/4 pound boneless chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces

• Sauce Base

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chiles

• 8 ounces processed cheese product (like Velveeta), cubed

• 1 can (10 ounces) cream of chicken soup

• 2 ounces cream cheese, cut into small pieces

• 1/3 cup whole milk

• Seasonings

• 1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder

• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped

• Topping

• 1 1/2 cups shredded Colby-jack or cheddar cheese

• 1 cup crushed tortilla chips

• 2 green onions, thinly sliced

• Alternative Ingredients:

• Pasta: Gluten-free pasta for gluten-free option.

• Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken or turkey as a substitute.

• Cheese Product: Substitute with shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack.

• Cream of Chicken Soup: Use cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor.

• Milk: Substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free option.

Directions

• Prepare Pasta & Chicken – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Add diced chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through.
• Make the Sauce – Lower the heat to medium and add the diced tomatoes with green chiles and cubed processed cheese to the skillet. Stir occasionally until the cheese melts completely into the mixture. Add the cream of chicken soup, cream cheese pieces, and milk. Continue stirring until the cream cheese is fully incorporated into the sauce.
• Season & Simmer – Stir in the chili powder and chopped cilantro into the sauce mixture. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently while you finish cooking the pasta.
• Combine & Bake – Once the pasta is cooked and drained, add it to the skillet with the sauce. Mix thoroughly to ensure all pasta is coated with the cheesy sauce. Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips evenly over the top of the mac and cheese mixture. Then add a layer of shredded Colby-jack or cheddar cheese followed by sliced green onions.
• Bake & Serve – Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and starting to brown on top. Remove from oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Equipment

• chef’s knife
• cutting board
• nonstick pan
• baking sheet
• mixing bowls
• measuring cups and spoons

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 650kcal
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Cholesterol: 110mg
• Sodium: 1200mg
• Potassium: 600mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g
• Vitamin A: 20IU
• Vitamin C: 15mg
• Calcium: 30mg
• Iron: 15mg

FAQ – Tex-Mex Chicken Mac and Cheese