This Chicken Fajita Pasta blends bold fajita spices, tender grilled chicken, and creamy pasta for a flavorful, satisfying meal. It’s easy to make and perfect for weeknights or family dinners that everyone will love.
Why We Love This Chicken Fajita Pasta Recipe
One of the reasons Chicken Fajita Pasta has gained such popularity is its versatility. You can whip it up in just about 30-40 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those hectic days. The dish is packed with protein and colorful vegetables, ensuring that you enjoy a nutritious and delicious meal. The recipe is easy to customize according to your palate, allowing you to add more veggies or spice levels as you see fit. Plus, the fusion of flavors will remind you of your favorite Mexican restaurant without any of the fuss.
Ingredients about Chicken Fajita Pasta
Gathering your ingredients is the first step towards creating this scrumptious Chicken Fajita Pasta. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1.5-2 lbs chicken breasts, boneless & skinless
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1.5 tsp chili powder
- 1.5 tsp paprika
- 1.5 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 2 small bell peppers, chopped (use a mix of colors for a vibrant presentation)
- 1/2 cup red onion, chopped
- 3 cups dry pasta (your preferred shape, such as penne or fusilli)
- 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/3 cup shredded cheese (like cheddar or Monterey Jack)
How to Make Chicken Fajita Pasta Directions
Creating Chicken Fajita Pasta is straightforward and rewarding. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prepare this delightful dish:
Prepare the Chicken: Start by heating 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. While the oil heats, combine the garlic powder, chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Whisk these ingredients together to create a flavorful seasoning mix.
Season the Chicken: Rub the chicken breasts on both sides with half of the seasoning mix. Make sure each piece is well-coated to absorb all those spices.
Cook the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook for about 8-10 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest while you prepare the vegetables.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped bell peppers and red onion along with an additional teaspoon of olive oil. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan. This step will enhance the flavor of your veggies. After a couple of minutes, sprinkle in the remaining seasoning mix and stir.
Add Pasta and Broth: Once the veggies have softened, add the dry pasta over the sautéed vegetables. Pour the chicken broth over everything, ensuring the pasta is fully submerged. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow it to simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking. If the mixture starts to look dry, feel free to add a splash of extra chicken broth or water.
Finish the Dish: After the pasta reaches your desired level of tenderness, pour in the whole milk and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy. At this point, slice the rested chicken and add it back to the skillet, folding it gently into the pasta mixture.
Serving: Once combined and heated through, your Chicken Fajita Pasta is ready to be served hot. Garnish with fresh cilantro or your favorite toppings for an extra touch.
How to Serve Chicken Fajita Pasta
Serving Chicken Fajita Pasta is as easy as it is enjoyable. Transfer the creamy pasta into bowls or plates, and consider garnishing with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. You might also offer lime wedges on the side for those who enjoy a citrus kick. For a more festive touch, top with avocado slices or your favorite salsa. This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or tortilla chips for added texture.
Expert Tips: Chicken Fajita Pasta
To elevate your Chicken Fajita Pasta game, consider these expert tips:
- Marinate the Chicken: If you have a bit more time, marinate the chicken in the seasoning mix for at least 30 minutes or overnight. This will deepen the flavor and make your chicken even more delicious.
- Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to add other veggies, such as zucchini or mushrooms, to enrich the nutritional profile and texture of the dish.
- Pasta Cooking Time: Every type of pasta has a different cooking time. Make sure to follow the package instructions for the specific pasta shape you choose, adjusting the simmering time accordingly.
- Leftovers: If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It can be reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave. Just remember that the pasta might absorb some of the sauce, so you may want to add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up when reheating.
How to Store Chicken Fajita Pasta
Storing your Chicken Fajita Pasta is simple. Allow it to cool completely if you have any leftovers. Then, transfer the pasta into an airtight container. This dish can typically be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to consume it within 2-3 months when frozen to ensure peak freshness.
Variation of Chicken Fajita Pasta
While the Chicken Fajita Pasta recipe is scrumptious as is, you can also indulge in various modifications to enhance its flavor and cater to your taste preferences.
- Add Beans: Consider incorporating black beans or kidney beans for extra protein and fiber. This will make the dish heartier and more filling.
- Switch Up the Spice: If you enjoy heat, add chopped jalapeños or use a spicier chili powder for an extra kick. Alternatively, if you prefer a milder flavor, omit the chili powder or reduce the amount.
- Use Different Proteins: While chicken is a fantastic option, you could substitute turkey, shrimp, or even grilled vegetables for a meat-free version.
- Try a Different Cheese: Experiment with different cheese varieties. Feta cheese or pepper jack can provide a delightful twist on the classic recipe.
FAQ Section
What makes Chicken Fajita Pasta unique?
Chicken Fajita Pasta combines traditional fajita spices with pasta, creating a comforting dish that balances bold flavors with a creamy texture. It’s a brilliant fusion meal that is both satisfying and versatile.
Can I use a different type of pasta for Chicken Fajita Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute your preferred pasta shape to suit your taste. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose to use.
How do I make Chicken Fajita Pasta ahead of time?
You can prepare Chicken Fajita Pasta ahead of time by cooking and storing all components separately. Prepare the chicken and veggies beforehand and cook the pasta just before serving. This method ensures the best texture and flavor come together when you’re ready to enjoy it.
Can I make Chicken Fajita Pasta in a slow cooker?
Yes! To make this dish in a slow cooker, combine all the ingredients (minus the pasta and cheese) and cook on low for 6-8 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, add the pasta and cheese, then let it cook until the pasta is tender.
Is Chicken Fajita Pasta suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This dish is ideal for meal prep. You can portion it out for the week, making it a convenient and delicious option for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Chicken Fajita Pasta
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1.5-2 lbs chicken breasts, boneless & skinless
- 1 tsp olive oil for cooking the chicken
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1.5 tsp chili powder
- 1.5 tsp paprika
- 1.5 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
For the Pasta
- 2 small bell peppers, chopped use a mix of colors for vibrant presentation
- 1/2 cup red onion, chopped
- 3 cups dry pasta (your preferred shape) such as penne or fusilli
- 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/3 cup shredded cheese (like cheddar or Monterey Jack)
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by heating 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Whisk together to create a seasoning mix.
- Rub the chicken breasts on both sides with half of the seasoning mix.
Cooking
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for about 8-10 minutes on each side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest while preparing the vegetables.
- In the same skillet, add chopped bell peppers and red onion along with an additional teaspoon of olive oil.
- Sprinkle the remaining seasoning mix over the vegetables and stir.
- Add the dry pasta over the sautéed vegetables and pour the chicken broth over everything, making sure the pasta is fully submerged.
- Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce heat to low, and let simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring often.
- Once the pasta reaches your desired tenderness, pour in the whole milk and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
- Slice the rested chicken and fold it gently into the pasta mixture.
Serving
- Serve the Chicken Fajita Pasta hot, garnishing with fresh cilantro or your favorite toppings.