Chicken Fajita Pasta

Chicken Fajita Pasta is a flavorful fusion of Mexican and Italian flavors. This pasta is filled with chicken, bell peppers, cheese, and a creamy sauce!

When the craving for a comforting meal strikes, look no further than my cheesy Chicken Fajita Pasta. This dish brings together the savory goodness of chicken fajitas with the creamy indulgence of cheesy pasta. It’s a culinary journey that transforms a simple weeknight dinner into a tasty fiesta. The easy steps it takes to create this mouthwatering masterpiece, brings together the perfect balance of spices, textures, and, of course, lots of cheese. My kids, and husband Kale, can’t get enough of this one and I am sure your family will feel the exact same way.

CHICKEN FAJITA PASTA

Let’s start with the essentials. This recipe calls for 8 ounces of uncooked pasta, allowing you the freedom to choose any shape that suits your preference. Add to that a tablespoon of butter, two cubed chicken breasts, and a spice blend that includes smoked paprika, garlic powder, and fajita seasoning. The ensemble is completed with the aromatic trio of finely diced onions, red and green bell peppers, plus a minced garlic clove for that extra kick. To bring all the flavors together, a cup of chicken broth, adding depth and richness, and a half cup of heavy cream for that creaminess. Finally, don’t forget the star of the show – shredded Mozzarella cheese and fresh parsley for a burst of freshness and color.

INGREDIENTS

• 8 ounces pasta (any shape you prefer)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 small chicken breasts, cubed
• 1 Tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 Tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 Tablespoon fajita seasoning 
• 1 onion, finely diced
• 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
• 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream 
• 1 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

COOKING INSTRUCTIONS

Cook pasta in a pot of boiling water according to package directions. Drain water, reserving a 1/4 cup of pasta water for later. Cover pasta to keep warm. Set aside. 

Meanwhile, in a large oven-safe skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Once melted, add the chicken pieces. Season chicken with the paprika, garlic powder and fajita seasoning. Stir. Add the onion and both bell peppers. Cook until the peppers are soft, and the chicken is cooked through.

Add the garlic clove to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir and cook until the sauce thickens. Stir in the reserved pasta water and then the cooked pasta. Gently toss to combine everything.

Sprinkle the top evenly with the cheese then place the pan under the broiler until golden and bubbling. (*Watch closely the entire time so it doesn’t burn.) Serve and enjoy!

SERVINGS

This hearty recipe is made to serve 4. I like to serve this with a big green salad for a complete meal!

STORING INSTRUCTIONS AND FREEZING

This pasta is delicious as leftovers the next night. To store this culinary masterpiece, ensure it cools to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days.

For those looking to plan ahead, this dish is a freezer-friendly sensation. Simply pack it securely in a freezer-safe container, ensuring it remains airtight to preserve its lusciousness. When the craving strikes again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the oven for a taste that’s as great as the day it was made.

NOODLE OPTIONS

One of the beauties of this recipe lies in its versatility, and the noodle choice is no exception. While the recipe suggests a classic uncooked pasta, feel free to embark on a culinary adventure by experimenting with different noodle varieties. You can opt for the elegance of fettuccine, the cozy embrace of penne, or the spiral charm of rotini, the hearty bite of a rigatoni noodle – the choice is yours!

GLUTEN FREE OPTION

Make this delectable dish accessible to all taste preferences and dietary needs. By opting for gluten-free noodles, you can ensure that everyone at your table can indulge in the savory symphony of flavors without compromise. The gluten-free alternative seamlessly integrates into the recipe, maintaining the perfect balance of textures and allowing the vibrant fajita spices and gooey cheese to shine.

MEAT ALTERNATIVES

Experience exploring a world of meaty possibilities. While the original recipe features succulent chicken, you have the creative license to personalize this culinary masterpiece with your preferred protein. Consider infusing the dish with the robust flavor of thinly sliced steak or the earthy richness of sautéed shrimp. Adventurous souls may even venture into the realm of spicy chorizo for an extra kick. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability, allowing carnivores to curate their dream pasta dish. There’s no limit to the carnivorous delights you can bring to your table.

ENJOY THIS RECIPE? HERE ARE A FEW MORE FAJITA RECIPES!

Sheet Pan Steak Fajitas – Succulent steak is baked in the oven with fresh peppers and onions and topped with fresh lime juice!

Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajitas – Tender shrimp is cooked together with vegetables including colorful bell peppers and onions ready to serve in a warm tortilla.

Crock Pot Chicken Fajitas – Slowly cooked chicken is simmered with seasonings and spices with peppers and onions for a flavorful easy to make meal.

Chicken Fajita Braid – Delicious chicken fajitas are wrapped up in pizza dough, braided, then baked to perfection! Try this recipe for something new and flavorful!

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