This Chicken Fajita Pasta is a fun twist on classic flavors! It’s packed with tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and tasty spices all mixed with pasta, making it a one-pan wonder.
You’ll love how quick it comes together. Plus, I can’t resist the extra cheese on top—who can? 😋 It’s a perfect dish for busy nights when you want something yummy and satisfying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This pasta shape holds sauce well, but you can easily swap it for fusilli or rotini if you prefer. Gluten-free pasta works too if you have dietary restrictions.
Chicken: I like using thinly sliced chicken breasts for even cooking. If you want a quicker option, shredded rotisserie chicken is great. For a vegetarian version, try using beans or tofu!
Bell Peppers: While red and yellow add sweetness, feel free to use whatever you have on hand—green peppers will give a slightly different flavor. Other colorful veggies like zucchini or corn can mingle in nicely too!
Spices: Chili powder and smoked paprika give depth. If you’re out of paprika, regular paprika or even taco seasoning can work. For a milder taste, skip the cayenne!
Heavy Cream: To cut calories, you can use half-and-half or even a plant-based cream. Coconut milk adds a unique twist while keeping it creamy.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Getting tender, juicy chicken is crucial. When cooking, cut it into thin slices; this helps it cook evenly and quickly. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat the skillet before adding the olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook the chicken in batches if necessary.
- Let it sear on one side before stirring to lock in those flavors. Aim for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
By focusing on these tips, your chicken will be perfectly cooked every time. Happy cooking! 🍽️
Delicious Chicken Fajita Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz penne pasta
For the Chicken and Vegetables:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend)
For Garnishing:
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Fajita Pasta takes about 30 minutes to make. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking everything to perfection. It’s quick, delicious, and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Cooking the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat up the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken to the skillet. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
3. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes until they are tender and fragrant.
4. Combining Ingredients:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Then, add the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Mix everything well and let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes to let the flavors meld.
5. Making it Creamy:
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes creamy. This is where the magic happens!
6. Mixing the Pasta:
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and gently toss everything together so that the pasta is evenly coated with that luscious fajita sauce.
7. Serving:
Serve the Chicken Fajita Pasta hot! Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley, and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if you like. Dig in, and enjoy this flavorful dish!
Enjoy your delicious Chicken Fajita Pasta! 🌶️✨
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is great for holding the sauce, you can substitute it with fusilli, rotini, or even spaghetti. Whole grain or gluten-free pasta also works if you prefer healthier or dietary options.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken?
If you’re looking for alternatives, shredded rotisserie chicken is a quick option. Alternatively, you could use shrimp, beef, or a plant-based protein like beans or tofu for a vegetarian dish!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you want more heat, add extra cayenne pepper or include sliced jalapeños when cooking the vegetables. Alternatively, a dash of hot sauce can amp up the flavor too!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to prevent it from drying out.
