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Fajita-Inspired Pasta Bake

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This Fajita-Inspired Pasta Bake is a creamy, cheesy Tex-Mex comfort food recipe that combines smoky fajita-seasoned chicken, colorful bell peppers, and tender pasta baked to perfection. Perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners, this easy fajita pasta bake delivers bold flavor, simple prep, and crowd-pleasing results in every bite.

Ingredients

  • 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced into strips

  • 1 small red onion, sliced

  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced

  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 tablespoons fajita seasoning

  • 1 teaspoon chili powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1 cup diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • 1/2 cup chicken broth

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese

  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

  • Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  • In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Add sliced chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

  • In the same skillet, sauté onion and bell peppers for 4–5 minutes until slightly tender. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

  • Stir in fajita seasoning, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.

  • Return chicken to the skillet. Add diced tomatoes, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.

  • Add cooked pasta and mix until well combined.

  • Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish. Top with Mexican blend cheese and mozzarella.

  • Bake for 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

  • Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Notes

Cook pasta just until al dente to prevent overcooking during baking.Add cream cheese for extra creaminess.For extra crunch, sprinkle crushed tortilla chips on top before baking.Adjust spice level by adding jalapeños or cayenne pepper.Rotisserie chicken works perfectly as a time-saving substitute.

Find it online: https://cookibly.com/fajita-inspired-pasta-bake/