Never heard of this before but had to try it! 5 stars!

Mexican Chicken Alfredo Casserole is a delightful fusion dish that combines the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce with the bold, vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine. This recipe is perfect for those who love the comfort of a classic Italian dish but are eager to explore a new and exciting twist. The origins of this dish are rooted in the idea of blending culinary traditions to create something unique and delicious. It's a wonderful choice for family dinners or potlucks, as it brings together familiar ingredients in a novel way that is sure to impress.

This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad topped with avocado and a light citrus vinaigrette. You might also consider serving it alongside some warm, crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For a bit of extra flair, a side of Mexican-style street corn or a simple black bean salad would complement the flavors perfectly.

Servings: 6

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
8 ounces penne pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup salsa
1 cup Alfredo sauce
1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 jalapeño, sliced (optional)

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Stir in the shredded chicken, salsa, Alfredo sauce, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

Sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese blend evenly over the top.

Place the sliced jalapeño on top, if using, for an extra kick.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

For a spicier version, consider adding more jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. You can also substitute the penne with other pasta shapes like rotini or rigatoni for a different texture. If you're looking for a lighter option, try using a low-fat Alfredo sauce or swapping out half of the pasta for steamed broccoli or cauliflower. For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add more vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini.