This hearty, cheesy Cowboy Chicken Pasta is packed with seasoned chicken, smoky bacon, sweet corn, peppers, and a rich Velveeta sauce—perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.
Ingredients
Protein
- 5–6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (family pack)
- 4–6 slices bacon (or turkey bacon), chopped
Chicken Seasoning
- 1 tsp adobo seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp garlic salt
Pasta & Veggies
- 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 2 green bell peppers, diced
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 3–4 green onions, sliced (for topping)
Sauce
- ⅔ cup salsa
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 16 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
Sauce Seasoning (to taste)
- Onion powder
- Chili powder
- Paprika
- Cumin
- Adobo seasoning
- Garlic salt
Other
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper (as needed)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook bowtie pasta according to package directions.
- Drain and set aside.
2. Season & Cook the Chicken
- Pat chicken thighs dry.
- Season both sides with adobo, paprika, onion powder, cumin, and garlic salt.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken and cook 4–6 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
- Remove, chop into bite-sized pieces, and set aside.
3. Cook the Bacon
- In the same skillet, cook bacon until crispy.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
- Leave about 1–2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pan for flavor.
4. Make the Sauce & Veggies
- Reduce heat to medium.
- Add diced bell peppers and corn to the skillet.
- Sauté for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender.
- Season with onion powder, chili powder, paprika, cumin, adobo, and garlic salt.
- Add Velveeta cubes and stir until fully melted.
- Stir in salsa and diced tomatoes.
- Simmer 2–3 minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste.
5. Assemble the Dish
- Add cooked pasta to a large serving bowl or pot.
- Top with chopped chicken and crispy bacon.
- Pour cheese sauce over everything.
- Gently toss until well combined.
6. Serve
- Garnish with sliced green onions.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
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