Loading…

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken: Boneless chicken breasts are great for this dish, but thighs can be juicier and add more flavor. If you prefer a meatless option, consider using chickpeas or skipping protein altogether.

Spices: The combination of chili powder, cumin, and paprika gives this dish its fajita kick. If you like it spicier, add cayenne pepper. For a milder version, reduce the chili powder.

Bell Peppers: Using red, green, and yellow bell peppers adds color and flavor. If you don’t have all three, use whatever you have on hand. Zucchini or mushrooms can also work well.

Pasta: I recommend penne pasta for its perfect shape to hold the sauce. However, any pasta like fusilli or rotini can be used. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

Heavy Cream: This adds richness. For a lighter option, consider using half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative if you’re keeping it lighter or have dietary restrictions.

How Can I Cook the Chicken Perfectly?

Cooking chicken well is key for this recipe. To ensure it’s tender and juicy, follow these steps:

• Cut the chicken into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
• Preheat your skillet before adding the chicken. A hot pan helps get a nice sear.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to prevent steaming.
• Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after cooking. This keeps it juicy.

By focusing on these tips, you’ll have flavorful chicken that shines in your fajita pasta!

How to Make Chicken Fajita Pasta

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the Vegetables:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• For the Pasta:
• 8 ounces penne pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
• For Garnish:
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious Chicken Fajita Pasta takes about 30 minutes in total: 10 minutes for prepping the ingredients and about 20 minutes for cooking. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Season the Chicken:

In a medium bowl, mix together the chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken pieces in the spice mix until they are all coated evenly.

2. Cook the Chicken:

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables:

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the sliced bell peppers and onion, and sauté for about 5-6 minutes until they are softened and slightly caramelized.

4. Add Garlic:

Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute, until you can smell the fragrance of the garlic filling the air.

5. Cook the Pasta:

While the veggies are cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

6. Combine the Sauce:

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the peppers and onions. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring everything together. Let the mixture simmer for about 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

7. Add Pasta & Cheese:

Stir in the cooked pasta and shredded cheese, tossing everything together so the pasta and chicken are coated in the creamy sauce and cheese melts beautifully.

8. Final Touches:

Remove the skillet from heat and garnish your dish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for a burst of flavor.

9. Serve & Enjoy:

Serve your Chicken Fajita Pasta hot, and get ready to enjoy a full plate of deliciousness!

Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?

Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken can save you time. Just shred it and add it to the skillet with the vegetables, skipping the cooking step for the chicken to avoid overcooking.

Can I Make This Pasta Gluten-Free?

Yes! You can use gluten-free pasta like rice, chickpea, or quinoa pasta. Just follow the package instructions for cooking times as they can vary from traditional pasta.

How Can I Store Leftovers?

Store your Chicken Fajita Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to revive the sauce.

Can I Add More Veggies?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in additional vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or corn. Just sauté them along with the peppers and onions for added flavor and nutrition.