San Antonio Pasta Skillet
A flavorful skillet dish combining pasta, diced poultry, vegetables, and spices, topped with cheese and cilantro for a quick, satisfying meal perfect for busy nights.
Ingredients
- 2 large onions, coarsely chopped ⓘ
- 10 oz. vermicelli, broken into pieces ⓘ
- 2 c. cooked turkey or chicken, diced ⓘ
- 1 large green pepper, cut into thin short strips
- 1/4 c. cilantro, chopped ⓘ
- 2 garlic cloves ⓘ
- 1/4 c. vegetable oil ⓘ
- 1 (16 oz.) can whole tomatoes ⓘ
- 1 (14 oz.) can chicken broth ⓘ
- 3/4 c. picante sauce ⓘ
- 1 tsp. ground cumin ⓘ
- 1/2 c. Cheddar cheese, shredded ⓘ
Instructions
- In a 12-inch skillet, over medium heat, cook onions, green pepper, and garlic in oil for 2 minutes.
- Add broken vermicelli pasta and cook, stirring for 2 minutes.
- Stir in whole tomatoes, chicken broth, cooked turkey or chicken, picante sauce, and cumin.
- Simmer for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally and breaking up tomatoes with a spoon.
- Continue to simmer for 4 to 5 minutes, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Sprinkle with shredded Cheddar cheese and chopped cilantro.
- Serve with additional picante sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the garlic with the onions and green pepper to enhance its aroma. If you don't have vermicelli, other pasta types like fusilli or penne can work, but adjust cooking times as needed. Fresh tomatoes can replace canned for a fresher taste, though they require longer cooking. Pair with a side of homemade guacamole for a delightful twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty skillet dish with a side of tortilla chips or a fresh green salad for balance. It pairs beautifully with Chicken Enchiladas In Cream for a satisfying meal. For a vegetarian option, add more vegetables like zucchini or corn. Drizzle extra picante sauce on top for an extra kick!
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out. Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish, stirring occasionally until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of San Antonio Pasta Skillet contains roughly 906 calories, with 22g protein, 125g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (166% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (99% of the Daily Value), and calcium (58% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1081mg per serving (47% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different proteins in this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile; you can substitute cooked chicken with shredded beef, pork, or even a plant-based protein like tofu. Just ensure the protein is cooked through before adding it to the skillet for the best texture and flavor.
What can I do if my pasta is overcooked?
If your pasta becomes overcooked, try adding a splash of chicken broth to the skillet to create a saucier dish. You can also sprinkle in some extra cheese or fresh herbs to enhance the flavor and texture, making it more enjoyable.
What is the best way to add heat to this dish?
For those who enjoy a spicy kick, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when you mix in the picante sauce. Alternatively, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving for an added layer of heat!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).