Chicken Fajita Pasta Recipe
Description:
This Chicken Fajita Pasta combines all the sizzling flavors of a traditional fajita—spicy grilled chicken, sweet bell peppers, onions, and a smoky, creamy sauce—with the comfort of pasta. It’s a one-pot meal that’s hearty, creamy, and perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Fajita Mix:
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt to taste
Juice of 1 lime
For the Pasta:
8 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 medium red onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated pepper jack cheese
Fresh cilantro or parsley (for garnish)
Optional: Sour cream or lime wedges for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
In a bowl, toss sliced chicken with olive oil, chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne, salt, and lime juice.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until browned and cooked through (about 5–7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Saute Vegetables
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Sauté the sliced bell peppers and onions until tender (about 5 minutes).
Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Add chicken broth and heavy cream to the sautéed vegetables. Bring to a simmer.
Stir in the cheeses until melted and smooth.
Return the chicken to the pan, add the drained pasta, and toss everything together until well combined.
Step 5: Serve
Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley. Serve with lime wedges or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Total Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 4–5):
Calories: ~550–600 kcal
Protein: ~35g
Carbohydrates: ~45g
Fat: ~30g
Fiber: ~4g
Sugar: ~6g
Sodium: ~700mg
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and vary based on portion size and ingredient brands.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! It keeps well in the fridge for 2–3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce.
Q2: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Absolutely. Substitute the cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream, and use dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for flavor.
Q3: What other pasta types can I use?
A: Any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni works well. Even spaghetti or linguine will do in a pinch.
Q4: Can I add vegetables?
A: Definitely. Mushrooms, zucchini, or corn make great additions for extra nutrition and flavor.
Q5: Is this spicy?
A: Mild to medium spice, depending on your chili powder and whether you include cayenne. Adj
ust spices to taste.