Chef Mitchell preparing Mexican Corn Pasta Delight
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this recipe while experimenting with leftover ingredients in my kitchen. The combination of creamy sauce and sweet corn was a hit with my family, and I knew I had to perfect it. After several attempts, I finally created the Mexican Corn Pasta Delight that we all love today. It's now a staple in our lunch rotation and brings everyone to the table."

With over a decade of experience in the culinary world, I've honed my skills in creating delicious Mexican dishes. My passion is to introduce others to the vibrant flavors of Mexico through easy and accessible recipes. I specialize in lunch ideas that are both satisfying and wholesome.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Mexican Corn Pasta Delight served on a plate

Why This Mexican Corn Pasta Delight Recipe Works

This recipe stands out because it combines the richness of a creamy sauce with the sweetness of corn and the heartiness of chicken. The spices add depth, making every bite flavorful. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that captures the essence of Mexican cuisine.

The technique of sautéing the chicken and vegetables before adding the sauce enhances the flavors remarkably. Cooking the pasta al dente ensures that it retains a perfect texture, allowing it to soak up the delicious sauce without becoming mushy.

💡 Professional Tip

For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lime juice and spices for a few hours before cooking. This will enhance the taste and keep the chicken juicy. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for a unique twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the pasta and sauce in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat and combine. The flavors will meld beautifully.

You can easily substitute the chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even beans for a vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the protein is fully cooked.

The dish is ready when the chicken is cooked through and the pasta is al dente. The sauce should be creamy and the flavors well combined. A quick taste test will confirm if any adjustments are needed.

Yes, you can freeze this dish. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread. You can also serve it alongside Mexican rice or black beans for a complete meal.

In the fridge, Mexican Corn Pasta Delight will last for about 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. Make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.

Yes, it can be made in advance. Just prepare the dish, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it.

The best way to reheat is on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if it appears too thick. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your pasta dish turns out dry, it may be due to the pasta absorbing too much sauce.

Solution: To fix this, you can add a little more cream or broth while reheating to bring back the moisture and creaminess.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the dish lacks a crispy texture, the chicken may not have been sautéed long enough.

Solution: Ensure you sauté the chicken until golden brown and crispy. You can also add breadcrumbs on top before baking for extra crunch.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: If the pasta is mushy, it has likely been overcooked.

Prevention: To prevent this in the future, watch the cooking time closely and taste the pasta a minute or two before the package instructions indicate.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the chicken is undercooked in the center, it may not have been cooked long enough.

Recovery: To fix this, cook the chicken longer on a lower heat setting, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: If the dish has a burnt exterior, it may have been cooked at too high a temperature.

Prevention: To avoid this, use medium heat when cooking and keep an eye on the chicken to prevent burning.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If your dish is too sweet, add a squeeze of lime juice to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If it's too salty, you can add a bit more cream or a pinch of sugar to counteract the saltiness.

Bland: If the dish is bland, add more spices or herbs to enhance the flavor profile.

Fresh ingredients for Mexican Corn Pasta Delight

Essential Ingredients for Mexican Corn Pasta Delight

Key ingredients include tender chicken, sweet corn, and a variety of spices that bring authentic Mexican flavor. The combination of pasta and cream creates a delightful texture that complements each ingredient.

Using high-quality ingredients, such as fresh vegetables and good-quality cheese, can significantly elevate the dish. Always choose the best produce and proteins for optimal flavor and nutrition.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easier cooking and a leaner meal. Ensure it's fresh for better flavor and tenderness.
  • Corn: Fresh corn adds a natural sweetness that enhances the dish. If using frozen corn, ensure it's thawed and drained well before adding to the recipe.
  • Cheese: Choose cheese that melts well, such as Monterey Jack or cheddar. Grating the cheese yourself ensures better melting and flavor compared to pre-shredded varieties.
Cooking process for Mexican Corn Pasta Delight

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process involves sautéing the chicken and vegetables to build flavor before combining them with the creamy sauce and pasta. It's straightforward and allows for customization based on your preferences.

Achieving perfect results requires attention to cooking times and temperatures. Cooking the chicken until golden brown and avoiding overcooked pasta will ensure a delicious texture and taste.

Key Technique for Perfect Mexican Corn Pasta Delight

A crucial technique is to sauté the chicken and vegetables separately before adding the cream and corn. This enhances their flavors and ensures everything cooks evenly, resulting in a rich and cohesive dish.

Mexican Corn Pasta Delight

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1 cup heavy cream
    For creaminess
  • 1 cup corn kernels
    Fresh or frozen
  • 1 tsp chili powder
    For spice
  • 1 tsp cumin
    For flavor

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 1 lb pasta
    Penne or fusilli
  • 1 cup bell pepper
    Diced
  • 1 medium onion
    Chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic
    Minced
  • 1 cup shredded cheese
    Cheddar or Monterey Jack
  • Salt
    To taste
  • Pepper
    To taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients

    Gather all ingredients and chop vegetables. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

  2. Cook Pasta

    Boil water in a large pot, add a pinch of salt, and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  3. Sauté Chicken

    In a large skillet, melt 1/2 cup butter over medium heat. Add chicken, season with salt, pepper, chili powder, and cumin, then cook until browned.

  4. Add Vegetables

    Add onions, garlic, and bell peppers to the skillet, sauté until vegetables are soft.

  5. Make the Sauce

    Stir in heavy cream and corn kernels. Allow to simmer for 5 minutes, then add lime juice.

  6. Combine Pasta and Sauce

    Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat in the sauce. Stir in shredded cheese until melted.

  7. Adjust Seasoning

    Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lime juice if needed.

  8. Serve

    Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warm.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store leftover Mexican Corn Pasta Delight, let it cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Mexican Corn Pasta Delight with a side salad or some warm garlic bread. You can also offer lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor. This dish is versatile and pairs well with many sides.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding different vegetables such as zucchini or spinach. You can also use a different type of pasta or swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option.