Name: Creamy Chicken Fajita Pasta for a Family-Friendly Feast
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (Chicken thighs can be used for a richer flavor.); 2 tablespoons Taco or Fajita Seasoning (Consider making your own mix for freshness.); 1 medium Onion (sliced) (Using a yellow onion will enhance the dish.); 2 cups Bell Peppers (sliced) (Any sweet bell pepper is an excellent substitute.); 3 cloves Garlic (minced) (Fresh minced garlic creates the best taste.); 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (Feel free to use any high smoke point oil if preferred.); 2 cups Low-Sodium Chicken Broth (Vegetable broth is a great alternative.); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Consider using light cream for a lower-calorie version.); 14.5 ounces Diced Tomatoes (with or without green chiles) (Fresh tomatoes can be substituted as well.); 8 ounces Uncooked Pasta (e.g., penne or campanelle) (Any short pasta shape will do!)

As I was stirring dinner one evening, the aroma of garlic mingling with the sizzling chicken made the kitchen feel alive. That’s the magic of this One-Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta—a dish you can whip up in just 15 minutes that transforms your weeknight routine. Imagine tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and creamy sauce enveloping perfectly cooked pasta, bringing a taste of zesty fajitas to your table. This recipe isn’t just quick; it’s customizable, making it perfect for every family member’s preference. The best part? You get all the comforting flavors of a classic Mexican meal without the mess that usually comes with it. Are you ready to bring some excitement back to your dinner plans? Let’s dive into this delicious dish!

Why is Chicken Fajita Pasta a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: This One-Pot wonder can be ready in just 15 minutes, eliminating the stress of busy weeknights.

Creamy and Flavorful: The rich sauce, combined with the zesty fajita seasoning, creates a taste explosion that will have your family coming back for seconds.

Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with your favorite ingredients—like swapping in shrimp or adding extra veggies for a nutrient boost, similar to our delightful Cajun Pasta Shrimp.

Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the fusion of pasta and classic fajita ingredients, making it a surefire hit for all ages.

One-Pot Delight: Say goodbye to multiple pots and pans! This recipe keeps cleanup a breeze, just like our Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos.

Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever pasta shape you have on hand and enjoy the same incredible taste!

Chicken Fajita Pasta Ingredients

• The key to this dish lies in the variety of ingredients used to elevate its creamy, zesty profile!

For the Chicken

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – Provides a lean source of protein; chicken thighs can be used for a richer flavor.
Taco or Fajita Seasoning – Essential for that authentic fajita flavor; consider making your own mix for freshness.

For the Vegetables

Onion (sliced) – Adds sweetness and depth; using a yellow onion will enhance the dish.
Bell Peppers (sliced) – Brings color and crunch; any sweet bell pepper is an excellent substitute.
Garlic (minced) – Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor; fresh minced garlic creates the best taste.

For the Sauce and Pasta

Olive Oil – Used for sautéing; feel free to use any high smoke point oil if preferred.
Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – Acts as the cooking liquid, infusing the pasta with flavor; vegetable broth is a great alternative.
Heavy Cream – Delivers a rich, creamy texture; consider using light cream for a lower-calorie version.
Diced Tomatoes (with or without green chiles) – Adds moisture and a pop of sweetness; fresh tomatoes can be substituted as well.
Uncooked Pasta (e.g., penne or campanelle) – The foundation of this One-Pot dish; any short pasta shape will do!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Fajita Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by slicing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, season the chicken generously with taco seasoning, ensuring it’s evenly coated. This step infuses the chicken with that signature fajita flavor, setting the foundation for your One-Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over high heat until shimmering. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for about 1-2 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. The chicken should sizzle in the pan, developing a nice golden color. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add another splash of olive oil if needed and toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sprinkle with the remaining taco seasoning and sauté over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes. You’re looking for the veggies to soften and become slightly charred, which will enhance their natural sweetness and flavor.

Step 4: Add Garlic
Lower the heat slightly and stir in the minced garlic, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be attentive here, as you want the garlic to soften without burning, which can turn your Chicken Fajita Pasta bitter. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist!

Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Next, pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, heavy cream, and diced tomatoes. Stir well to combine all the flavors, ensuring any browned bits are scraped up from the bottom of the pan for added depth. Then, add the uncooked pasta, which will soak up the flavors during cooking.

Step 6: Simmer the Pasta
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. During this time, occasionally stir until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed, creating a creamy sauce that clings to the Chicken Fajita Pasta.

Step 7: Final Touches
Once the pasta is tender, return the cooked chicken to the skillet and gently stir until everything is heated through, about 2-3 minutes. The vibrant colors of the chicken and veggies combined with the creamy sauce will make this dish irresistible. Serve immediately, garnishing as desired with cheese or fresh herbs.

Make Ahead Options

These One-Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prep the chicken by marinating it with taco seasoning up to 24 hours in advance, which enhances the flavors beautifully. Additionally, you can chop the onions and bell peppers ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. On the day you’re ready to cook, simply sauté the chicken and vegetables, add the broth, cream, tomatoes, and pasta, and simmer as directed. This way, you’ll have a flavorful and creamy dish that feels just as delicious as when made fresh, cutting down on your cooking time without sacrificing taste!

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Fajita Pasta

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain flavor, reheat gently in the microwave with a splash of chicken broth.

Freezer: Freeze Chicken Fajita Pasta in a well-sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little broth or cream to restore creaminess, stirring until heated through.

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving Chicken Fajita Pasta out for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth and ensure food safety.

What to Serve with One-Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta?

Imagine the delightful aroma filling your kitchen as you complete this vibrant dish, creating an inviting atmosphere for a family gathering.

Creamy Garlic Bread: This buttery, toasted delight contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta, offering a comforting touch that everyone loves.
Zesty Garden Salad: Fresh greens tossed with a tangy vinaigrette elevate the meal, adding crispness and a refreshing bite to balance the creamy richness.
Spicy Roasted Corn: The sweetness of roasted corn with a hint of spice melds perfectly with the fajita flavors, bringing an extra layer of texture and taste.
Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with zesty lime and fresh cilantro complements the fajitas beautifully, making each bite a bit of fiesta!
Grilled Vegetables: Smoky, charred veggies provide a fun nod to the fajita theme while adding a healthy element that can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Fresh Guacamole: Creamy avocado with lime and a pinch of salt adds a luscious topping. Great for scooping, it brings the fun and fresh element everyone craves at the table.
Margaritas on the Rocks: Sip a refreshing margarita to elevate your meal, harmonizing beautifully with the zesty flavors of the chicken fajita pasta.

Expert Tips for Chicken Fajita Pasta

• Don’t Rush the Chicken: Ensure the chicken is browned properly by cooking in batches if necessary. Crowding the pan can lead to steaming instead of sizzling, affecting flavor.

• Creamy Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to reach your desired creamy texture. Remember, balance is key in Chicken Fajita Pasta!

• Taste as You Go: Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning while cooking. Adding salt, pepper, or more fajita seasoning can elevate the dish, especially if you’re customizing for family preferences.

• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap or add veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor, making this dish even more engaging without losing its essence.

• Customizable Pasta: Any short pasta works well; however, ensure it’s cooked al dente for the best bite that holds onto that delicious creamy sauce.

• Save for Later: Leftovers reheat beautifully; simply add a drop of broth when warming up to keep that creamy texture nice and smooth!

Chicken Fajita Pasta Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this delicious dish to suit your taste buds!

Shrimp Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp for a quick seafood twist, cooking until just pink and tender.
Tofu Option: For a plant-based version, use firm tofu—just sauté until golden for added texture and flavor.
Veggie Boost: Add in more veggies like zucchini or corn for extra nutrition and vibrant colors.
Spicy Kick: Amp up the heat by incorporating jalapeños or using hot diced tomatoes for a zesty flair.
Creamy Alternatives: Substitute heavy cream with light cream or cashew cream for a lighter meal that’s still rich.
Pasta Variety: Experiment with different pasta shapes; try using spaghetti or egg noodles for fun and variety.
Cheesy Top: Sprinkle shredded cheese or feta on top just before serving for a decadent finish, akin to our scrumptious Cranberry Chicken Savory.
Herbed Delight: Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley make a great garnish, brightening up the dish visually and flavor-wise.

With these variations, you’ll keep mealtime exciting without missing out on the comforting essence of Chicken Fajita Pasta.

Chicken Fajita Pasta Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for my Chicken Fajita Pasta?
Absolutely! When selecting your bell peppers, look for ones that are firm, brightly colored, and free of dark spots. For onions, a firm feel and a lack of soft spots indicate freshness. As for your chicken, opt for boneless, skinless breasts or thighs that are pink and plump, ensuring quality for the best flavor.

How should I store leftover Chicken Fajita Pasta?
After enjoying your meal, allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just add a splash of chicken broth to keep the pasta creamy and prevent it from drying out.

Can I freeze Chicken Fajita Pasta, and how?
Yes, you can freeze Chicken Fajita Pasta for up to 2 months! Just make sure it’s cooled before storing in a well-sealed container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in a skillet, adding a bit of broth for that creamy consistency.

What if my Chicken Fajita Pasta is too thick?
Very easily remedied! If your sauce appears too thick, simply stir in a splash of chicken broth or cream. Continue to heat over medium until it reaches your desired creaminess. This will enhance the texture, making every bite enjoyable!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Always! For gluten-free options, you can substitute regular pasta with gluten-free alternatives. Additionally, if you’re cooking for those with dairy restrictions, consider using cashew cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. As always, check for allergies to the specific ingredients, especially if you’re adding extras like cheese or spicy ingredients!

How can I prevent overcrowding the pan while cooking?
Great question! To ensure your chicken browns nicely, cook in smaller batches. If the pan is overcrowded, it can lead to steaming rather than browning. Brown your chicken in two separate sets, allowing each piece to crisp up for that glorious flavor that makes the Chicken Fajita Pasta so delicious!