Easy Chicken Fajita Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love Chicken Fajita Pasta because it brings together the best of both worlds—classic fajita ingredients and creamy pasta—into one delicious dish. The fajita seasoning adds a smoky, spicy kick, while the creamy sauce balances it out with richness. The chicken, peppers, and onions provide freshness and crunch, making every bite a flavorful experience. It’s an easy-to-make, one-pot dish that’s perfect for anyone craving something flavorful, comforting, and satisfying.

Ingredients

For the chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the pasta:

• 8 oz penne pasta (or any pasta shape of your choice)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

• 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced

• 1 onion, thinly sliced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup chicken broth

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package instructions, usually 9-11 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.

2. Season the chicken: In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Toss the sliced chicken in the seasoning mixture until well-coated.

3. Cook the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until fully cooked and browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

4. Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.

5. Make the sauce: Add the heavy cream and chicken broth to the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. You can add some of the reserved pasta water if the sauce becomes too thick.

6. Combine the pasta and chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables and sauce. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until the pasta is coated with the creamy sauce. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese (if using) and cook until melted and smooth.

7. Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve immediately. You can also add extra cheese, lime wedges, or sour cream if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. Preparation time is around 10 minutes, with cooking time for the chicken, vegetables, and pasta taking about 20 minutes. The total time is approximately 30 minutes, making it a quick and easy dinner option.

Variations

• Add more veggies: Include extra veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or corn to make the dish even more colorful and nutritious.

• Make it spicy: Add more cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to kick up the heat.

• Use a different protein: Swap the chicken for shrimp, ground beef, or even a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh for a different twist.

• Add beans: For extra fiber, stir in black beans or kidney beans for a heartier dish.

• Vegan version: Use coconut cream or almond milk instead of heavy cream, and swap the chicken for a plant-based protein, such as lentils or chickpeas.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover Chicken Fajita Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to help bring the sauce back to life. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring every 30 seconds until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine, rigatoni, or bowtie pasta. Just cook the pasta according to package instructions.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the Chicken Fajita Pasta ahead of time. Prepare it fully and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it with a little extra cream or broth to keep it creamy.

3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy milk, and use dairy-free cheese or skip the cheese altogether.

4. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the Chicken Fajita Pasta for up to 2-3 months. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little extra cream or broth to loosen the sauce.

5. Can I add more protein?

Absolutely! If you prefer more protein, add cooked shrimp, ground turkey, or even black beans for extra protein.

6. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add diced jalapeños, extra cayenne pepper, or your favorite hot sauce to the dish to bring in more spice.

Conclusion

Chicken Fajita Pasta is a flavorful, creamy, and comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The combination of seasoned chicken, sautéed bell peppers, and creamy pasta is a true crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s customizable to suit your preferences, whether you want to add extra veggies, spice, or protein. This recipe brings together the best of fajitas and pasta in one satisfying dish—quick, easy, and full of bold flavors!

---

Print