1/2 cup chopped onion
1 teaspoon chopped garlic
3 1/2 cups water
1/2 cup medium green salsa verde
1 can (4.5 oz) chopped green chiles
8 oz uncooked penne pasta (about 2 1/2 cups)
1 package (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
4 oz cream cheese, cubed
1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend (4 oz)
2 cups chopped cooked chicken
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves
Diced tomatoes, sliced green onion, if desired
In 5-quart Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion; cook 3 to 4 minutes or until tender and starting to brown. Stir in garlic; cook about 30 seconds or until fragrant. Add water, salsa verde, green chiles, uncooked pasta and taco seasoning mix; heat to simmering. Reduce heat to medium-low; cook uncovered 13 to 18 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of liquid has been absorbed. Stir in cream cheese and 3/4 cup of the shredded cheese until melted. Stir in chicken; cook 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly, until heated through. Top with remaining 1/4 cup shredded cheese, the cilantro, tomatoes and green onion before serving.