Chicken Tequila Fettuccine

Serves 6

1 pound spinach Fettuccine, uncooked
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
2 tbsp. minced garlic
2 tbsp. minced jalapeño pepper
3 tbsp. unsalted butter
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
2 tbsp. gold tequila
2 tbsp. lime juice
3 tbsp. soy sauce
1 1/4 pounds chicken breast, diced 3/4-inch
1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1/2 medium yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
1/2 medium green bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 1/2 cups heavy cream

Prepare pasta according to package directions; drain.

Sauté cilantro, garlic and jalapeño in 2 tbsp. butter over medium heat for 4-5 minutes. Add chicken broth, tequila and lime juice. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook until reduced to a paste-like consistency. Set aside.

Pour soy sauce over diced chicken. Marinate for 5 minutes. Meanwhile, cook onion and peppers, stirring occasionally, with remaining butter over medium heat until wilted. Add chicken and soy sauce; toss and add reserved tequila/lime paste and cream. Bring to a boil, until chicken is cooked through, about 3 minutes.

Toss with hot pasta and serve immediately.

 National Pasta Assoc.