Save to Pinterest I stumbled onto pasta chips during a late-night scroll through social media, skeptical but curious. The idea of turning leftover rigatoni into crunchy, golden bites seemed almost too good to be true. But after one batch in the air fryer, I was hooked. Now, topping them with taco chicken and melted cheese has become my go-to move when friends come over unexpectedly.
The first time I served these, my sister grabbed three helpings before anyone else got seconds. She kept asking what made them taste so different, and I realized it was the garlic powder and smoked paprika on the pasta itself. Those little seasonings turn plain noodles into something that tastes intentional, almost像 a hybrid between a chip and a crouton. Watching everyone fight over the last cheesy corner made me feel like I'd cracked some kind of snack code.
Ingredients
- Short pasta shapes (rigatoni, penne, or farfalle): The ridges and hollow centers crisp up beautifully in the air fryer, creating pockets for toppings to nestle into.
- Olive oil: A light coating helps the pasta turn golden and prevents it from drying out during crisping.
- Garlic powder: Adds a savory depth that makes every bite taste seasoned, not bland.
- Smoked paprika: Brings a subtle smokiness that pairs perfectly with the taco-seasoned chicken.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast: Diced small, it cooks quickly and absorbs the taco seasoning without drying out.
- Taco seasoning: The blend of cumin, chili powder, and spices gives the chicken that familiar, crave-worthy flavor.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey pockets over the chips, holding everything together.
- Jalapeños: Fresh slices add a bright, spicy kick that cuts through the richness.
- Sour cream, cilantro, tomato, and red onion: Optional toppings that add freshness and color, making the dish feel complete.
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep:
- Set your air fryer to 200°C (400°F) so its ready when the pasta is. This ensures even crisping from the moment the noodles hit the basket.
- Boil the Pasta:
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water for 2 minutes less than the package suggests, then drain and pat it completely dry with a towel. Any moisture left behind will steam instead of crisp, so take your time here.
- Season the Pasta:
- Toss the cooked pasta with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt in a large bowl. Make sure every piece is lightly coated so the flavors bake in as it crisps.
- Air-Fry the Chips:
- Spread the pasta in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overlap. Air-fry for 10 to 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the edges are golden and the texture is crunchy.
- Cook the Chicken:
- While the pasta crisps, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and add the diced chicken, taco seasoning, and salt. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned at the edges.
- Assemble the Nachos:
- Transfer the crispy pasta chips to a serving platter, then scatter the taco chicken evenly over the top. Sprinkle with shredded cheese and jalapeño slices, making sure every corner gets some love.
- Melt the Cheese:
- Return the assembled nachos to the air fryer for 2 to 3 minutes, just until the cheese melts and starts to bubble. Watch closely so it doesnt burn.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Top with dollops of sour cream, fresh cilantro, diced tomato, and chopped red onion if using. Serve immediately while the chips are still crispy and the cheese is molten.
Save to Pinterest One evening, I made a double batch of these for a game night, and by halftime, the platter was empty. My friend Marcus, who usually sticks to plain chips and salsa, kept asking if I had more pasta hiding somewhere. That night, I realized this dish has a way of making people lean in, reach for just one more, and end up laughing over crumbs. Its not fancy, but it brings people together in a way that feels effortless and warm.
Choosing the Right Pasta Shape
Rigatoni and penne work best because their ridges and tubes catch the seasoning and create maximum crunch. I tried this once with spaghetti, thinking it would be fun, but it clumped together and didnt crisp evenly. Stick with short, sturdy shapes that can stand up to the air fryer heat and hold toppings without collapsing. Farfalle also works beautifully, the ruffled edges get extra crispy and add visual interest to the platter.
Making It Your Own
If youre vegetarian, swap the chicken for seasoned black beans or sautéed bell peppers and onions. For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne to the pasta seasoning or drizzle hot sauce over the finished nachos. You can also mix up the cheese, pepper jack adds heat, while a Mexican blend brings more complexity. The beauty of this recipe is that it adapts to whatever youre craving or whatever you have on hand.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Pasta chips are best eaten fresh, but if you have leftovers, store the plain chips separately from the toppings in an airtight container. Reheat the chips in the air fryer at 180°C (350°F) for 3 to 4 minutes to restore their crunch, then add fresh toppings. Assembled nachos get soggy quickly, so only build what youll eat right away. If youre meal prepping, keep the components separate and assemble portions as needed throughout the week.
- Store plain pasta chips at room temperature for up to 2 days in a sealed container.
- Keep cooked chicken refrigerated and reheat gently to avoid drying it out.
- Assemble nachos just before serving to maintain the crispy texture everyone loves.
Save to Pinterest Every time I make these, I remember that cooking doesnt have to be complicated to feel special. Sometimes the best dishes are the ones that surprise you, that make you smile while youre eating them, and that disappear faster than you thought possible.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make the pasta chips gluten-free?
Yes, substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta shapes to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
- → How do I ensure the pasta chips get crispy?
After boiling, dry the pasta thoroughly, then toss with oil and seasonings before air-frying to achieve a crispy texture.
- → What can I use instead of chicken for a vegetarian option?
Black beans or grilled vegetables can replace chicken for a vegetarian-friendly variation.
- → Is the air fryer necessary for this dish?
The air fryer crisps the pasta chips quickly and evenly, but a conventional oven can be used as an alternative.
- → How spicy are the jalapeños in this snack?
Jalapeños add a moderate heat that complements the zesty seasoning, but you can adjust the amount or omit them based on preference.