Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dinner: chicken fajita pasta! This dish is like a fiesta on a plate, combining the bold, zesty flavors of fajitas with the comforting heartiness of pasta. Seriously, it’s a match made in culinary heaven! What I love most is how simple it is to whip up—perfect for those busy evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Just a handful of fresh ingredients, a quick sauté, and voilà! You’ve got a creamy, flavorful dish that the whole family will adore. Trust me, once you try this chicken fajita pasta, it’ll become a staple in your home, just like it has in mine!
Ingredients List
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delicious chicken fajita pasta! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 8 oz pasta – You can use any type of pasta you love—penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti work wonderfully!
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced – I usually go for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tenderness. Slice them into thin strips for quick cooking.
- 1 bell pepper, sliced – A vibrant red, yellow, or green bell pepper adds color and sweetness. Slice it into thin strips to match the chicken.
- 1 onion, sliced – I prefer yellow onions for their mild flavor, but feel free to use red onions if you like a bit of bite!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – This helps to sauté everything and adds a lovely richness. Don’t skimp on this!
- 1 packet fajita seasoning – You can buy this pre-made or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous! It’s packed with flavor.
- 1 cup chicken broth – This adds moisture and depth to the dish. Low-sodium is a great choice if you’re watching your salt.
- 1 cup heavy cream – Make sure to use a full cup packed; it gives this pasta a rich, creamy texture that’s just irresistible.
- 1 cup shredded cheese – I love using a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for that melty goodness, but you can use whatever cheese you have on hand!
- Salt and pepper to taste – Always taste as you go to make sure it’s just right!
Once you have all these ingredients prepped, you’ll be ready to dive into making this fabulous dish!
How to Prepare Chicken Fajita Pasta
Alright, let’s get cooking! I promise this chicken fajita pasta is not only easy but also ridiculously delicious. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying a hearty, flavorful meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: First things first, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your 8 oz pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Sauté the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the 1 lb sliced chicken breast and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and cooked through. It should be nice and juicy!
- Add the Veggies: Toss in the 1 sliced bell pepper and 1 sliced onion to the skillet. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the veggies are softened and fragrant. Wow, the smell is already amazing!
- Season It Up: Now, stir in the packet of fajita seasoning and let it cook for about 1 minute. This will really bring that fajita flavor to life!
- Mix in the Liquids: Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble for a minute before adding the 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Stir it all together until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Combine with Pasta: Finally, add your cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in that luscious sauce. Don’t forget to taste and add salt and pepper as needed!
- Serve: Dish out your chicken fajita pasta while it’s warm. I love to sprinkle a bit more cheese on top for extra melty goodness. Enjoy!
And there you have it! A delightful and satisfying chicken fajita pasta that’s sure to impress. It’s all about those vibrant flavors and creamy textures that come together so effortlessly!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chicken fajita pasta is just a dream come true for anyone who craves flavor and convenience in one dish! Here’s why it’s become a favorite in my kitchen:
- Bold Flavors: The combination of fajita seasoning with tender chicken, colorful veggies, and creamy sauce creates a fiesta for your taste buds!
- Quick and Easy: You can whip this up in just 30 minutes—perfect for those hectic weeknights when you need something delicious in a flash.
- One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. Less time washing dishes means more time enjoying your meal!
- Customizable: Feel free to throw in your favorite veggies or adjust the spice level to suit your taste. It’s a dish that adapts to whatever you have on hand!
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this creamy, cheesy pasta. It’s a surefire way to get everyone around the table!
Trust me, once you make this chicken fajita pasta, you’ll be coming back for seconds—and maybe even thirds!
Tips for Success
To make your chicken fajita pasta truly shine, here are some of my go-to tips! First, don’t rush the sautéing process—let your chicken get a nice golden brown for that extra flavor. Also, if you like it spicy, toss in some sliced jalapeños when cooking the veggies for a kick! If you’re out of chicken broth, feel free to use vegetable broth instead; it works just as well. For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt. And remember, always taste as you go to ensure the seasoning is just right. Happy cooking!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up this chicken fajita pasta! For a different twist, try using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit your dietary needs. You can also add in other veggies like zucchini, corn, or even black beans for extra texture and flavor. Want to make it a bit lighter? Replace the heavy cream with a splash of low-fat milk or a plant-based cream. Feeling extra zesty? A squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving elevates those fajita flavors to a whole new level. Enjoy experimenting!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying chicken fajita pasta, it’s nice to know what you’re putting into your body! Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving, which is about 1/4 of the recipe:
- Calories: Approximately 600
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on standard ingredient usage, so they can vary depending on the specific brands and quantities you use. But overall, this dish packs a punch of flavor along with a good balance of protein and carbs to keep you satisfied!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? Don’t worry, chicken fajita pasta stores beautifully! First, let it cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps keep that creamy goodness intact. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick meals throughout the week.
When it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, reheating is a breeze! I recommend warming it up on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Just add a splash of chicken broth or a tiny bit of heavy cream to help loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through—this usually takes about 5-10 minutes.
If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave. Just pop it in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plate, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until it’s nice and hot. Just be sure not to overheat, or you might lose that creamy texture!
Enjoy your flavorful chicken fajita pasta even after the first day—it really does taste just as amazing the next time around!
FAQ Section
Can I use another type of meat instead of chicken?
Absolutely! This chicken fajita pasta is super versatile. You can easily swap in sliced beef, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly!
Is this chicken fajita pasta suitable for meal prep?
You bet! It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep. Just divide it into individual portions in airtight containers, and you’ll have a delicious lunch or dinner ready to go!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken, veggies, and sauce ahead of time, then simply cook the pasta and combine everything right before serving. This makes it a great option for gatherings or busy weeknights!
What can I serve with chicken fajita pasta?
This dish is hearty enough on its own, but you could serve it with a fresh salad or some warm tortillas on the side for a complete meal. A dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top adds even more creaminess!
How do I adjust the spice level?
If you want to kick up the heat, add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when cooking the chicken and veggies. On the flip side, if you prefer it milder, simply reduce the amount of fajita seasoning or skip any spicy additions. You can easily customize it to your taste!
For more information on the nutritional benefits of chicken, you can visit Chicken Farmers of Canada. Additionally, if you’re interested in learning more about fajita seasoning, check out Spice Jungle for a homemade recipe!
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Chicken Fajita Pasta: 7 Steps to Flavorful Family Fun
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and easy chicken fajita pasta dish that combines the flavors of fajitas with the heartiness of pasta.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 packet fajita seasoning
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add sliced chicken and cook until browned.
- Add bell pepper and onion; cook until softened.
- Stir in fajita seasoning and cook for 1 minute.
- Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in heavy cream and cheese; mix until combined.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- For extra spice, add jalapeños.
- Use any type of pasta you prefer.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: chicken fajita pasta, easy pasta recipes, chicken pasta dishes
