Description
Chicken Fajita Pasta is a fusion of Tex-Mex flavors and creamy pasta comfort. Tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and a smoky, spiced sauce come together with pasta to create a hearty meal that everyone will love!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Fajita Pasta:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 tablespoon fajita seasoning (store-bought or homemade – recipe in Notes)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 12 oz (340g) penne or your favorite pasta
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Optional Toppings:
- Lime wedges
- Sliced jalapeños
- Sour cream
Instructions
Cook the Chicken:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Toss the chicken strips with fajita seasoning, then add them to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the onion and bell peppers for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.Add Liquids and Pasta:
Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir to combine. Add the uncooked pasta, ensuring it is submerged in the liquid.Cook the Pasta:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened.Combine and Finish:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.Serve:
Garnish with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or your favorite toppings. Serve immediately and enjoy the delicious fusion of fajita and pasta flavors!
Notes
- Homemade Fajita Seasoning: Combine 1 teaspoon each of chili powder, paprika, and garlic powder with 1/2 teaspoon each of cumin, onion powder, and oregano. Add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
- Swap heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
- Use whole-grain or gluten-free pasta if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 680 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: Chicken fajita pasta, Tex-Mex pasta, creamy chicken pasta, one-pot meals