The sizzling sound of chicken hitting a hot pan is music to my ears. This One-Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta combines tender chicken, bold bell peppers, and pasta, creating a delightful dish that’s been turning heads lately. It’s easy to see why it’s so popularwho doesn’t love a cozy meal that comes together in one pot?
Picture classic fajitas, but in pasta form! The flavors meld beautifully as the chicken, peppers, and onions cook together, all infused with zesty fajita spices. It’s like your favorite Mexican restaurant made it, but you can whip it up at home in just 30 minutes. Plus, it uses simple pantry staples, which makes it a breeze to throw together on a busy weeknight.
I started making this during a hectic summer several years ago when I craved something quick yet comforting. My kids couldn’t get enough, and I overheard my daughter tell her friend it was “like a fiesta in a bowl.” The best part? I discovered that a splash of cream right at the end turns this into a rich, velvety treat. I’ve been perfecting it ever since, and trust me, it’s a true crowd-pleaser!
Thomas Baker
One-Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta: Quick and Delicious Way
This one pot chicken fajita pasta is a creamy, spicy twist on classic chicken fajitas, combining tender chicken, sautéed peppers, and onions with pasta all cooked together for a quick and satisfying meal. Perfect for weeknights, this creamy chicken fajita pasta recipe is full of bold flavors and minimal cleanup. Ideal for fans of one pot chicken fajita pasta, spicy chicken fajita pasta, and creamy chicken fajita pasta dishes. Related keywords for Pinterest in the USA: one pot chicken fajita pasta, chicken fajita pasta recipe, easy one pot fajita pasta, creamy chicken fajita pasta, crockpot chicken fajita pasta, keto chicken fajita pasta, spicy chicken fajita pasta, one skillet chicken fajita pasta, loaded chicken fajita pasta, 30 minute chicken fajita pasta
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 1/2 – 1 inch pieces
2-3 Tbsp fajita seasoning (taco seasoning works too)
1 large yellow onion peeled and diced
2-3 bell peppers any variety sliced into 1 inch long strips
5 cloves garlic minced
2 cups reduced sodium chicken stock
1/2 cup heavy cream
10 oz can diced tomatoes and green chiles (like Rotel brand)
8 oz dried penne pasta (or other short cut pasta)
kosher salt and black pepper to taste
lime wedges for garnish
sliced green onions for garnish
minced fresh cilantro for garnish
Method
Heat 1 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with half of the fajita seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 2 minutes before stirring or flipping to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until lightly browned; then remove and set aside.
Add the remaining 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil to the pan, then toss in the diced onion and sliced peppers along with the rest of the fajita seasoning. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and develop some charred spots, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds before removing the vegetables to join the chicken.
Pour in the chicken stock, heavy cream, diced tomatoes with chiles, and add the pasta along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Scrape the bottom of the pan gently to lift any browned bits, then bring everything to a boil. Lower the heat to a gentle boil, cover, and cook for around 15 minutes, stirring sometimes.
Check if most of the liquid has been absorbed; if not, continue cooking for 3-5 more minutes. Return the cooked chicken and veggies to the pot and stir until warmed through.
Serve the pasta topped with sliced green onions, fresh cilantro or parsley, and finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a bright flavor.
Notes
You can prep the chicken, onions, bell peppers, and garlic ahead of time and keep them refrigerated in separate airtight containers. The chicken should be stored separately from the vegetables. This recipe is also shared on The Slow Roasted Italian.
Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta
Quick & Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights.
Flavorful Comfort: Infused with zesty fajita spices, it’s like enjoying your favorite Mexican restaurant meal right at home.
One-Pot Wonder: With less cleanup, you’ll have more time to enjoy with family as everything cooks together beautifully.
Customizable: Adjust the spices or add your favorite veggies to make it your own!
Key Ingredients & Tools
Chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tender bites that soak up flavors beautifully.
Fajita Seasoning: A blend of spices that gives the dish its signature kickdon’t be shy, it’s part of the magic!
Pasta: Dried penne or another short pasta works well, adding a hearty texture to the dish.
Tools: A Dutch oven or large skillet will suffice; both allow for easy stirring and cooking.
How It Works: Step-by-Step Guide
Brown the Chicken: Heat 1 ½ tablespoons of olive oil in your skillet, add the chicken, and season with half the fajita seasoning. Cook until browned; set aside.
Sauté the Veggies: In the same skillet, add the remaining oil and toss in the onions and bell peppers. Stir in the rest of the seasoning and cook until they’re soft and slightly charred.
Combine & Cook: Pour in the chicken stock, heavy cream, diced tomatoes, and pasta. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer, stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender.
Finish Up: Return the chicken and veggies to the pot, stir everything together, and heat through before serving.
Troubleshooting Tips
Too Dry? If the pasta absorbs too much liquid, add a splash of chicken stock or water to loosen it up.
Pasta Doesn’t Cook? If it’s still firm after 15 minutes, extend the cooking time in small increments, checking for doneness.
Flavor Boost: Feeling adventurous? Add more fajita seasoning or a pinch of cayenne for an extra spicy kick!
Serving & Storage Suggestions
Garnish: Fresh lime wedges, diced green onions, and cilantro can elevate the dish and add a refreshing touch.
Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; it’s perfect for a quick lunch!
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for easy reheating later on.
Action
Tip
Prep Ahead
Chop chicken, onion, bell peppers, and garlic in advance for a quicker cooking process.
Storage
Store leftover pasta with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent it from sticking together.
Ingredient Breakdown
Ingredient
Purpose
Chicken breasts
Primary protein source; adds heartiness.
Fajita seasoning
Adds that wonderful, zesty flavor we crave in fajitas.
Bell peppers
Provides color and sweetness, balancing the dish.
Penne pasta
Main component; absorbs sauce and flavors.
Heavy cream
Adds richness and creaminess, making every bite delicious.
Expert Says
One-pot chicken fajita pasta combines protein-rich chicken with colorful bell peppers, enhancing both flavor and nutrition. The addition of high-fiber pasta not only creates a satisfying meal but also supports digestive health. Cooking everything together locks in the spices, ensuring each bite is packed with vibrant taste and nutrients.
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The Adventure of One-Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta
This One-Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta was a delightful challenge that took me a few attempts to nail down. I learned the hard way that too much spice can lead to a fiery surprise, but each try brought me closer to a balance of vibrant flavors and comforting simplicity that my family now loves.
FAQs ( One-Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta )
What is One-Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta?
This dish combines chicken, bell peppers, onions, and pasta cooked together with fajita spices in a single pot. It’s a quick, flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights, offering the vibrant taste of Mexican cuisine in every bite.
How do I store leftover One-Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove with a splash of broth or water to keep it from drying out.
Can I make this meal ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance. However, it’s best to cook the pasta just before serving to keep it fresh and prevent it from becoming mushy.
What toppings work best with this recipe?
Top your dish with freshly chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, or shredded cheese for added flavor. A dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lime can enhance the taste even more!
Is this meal keto-friendly?
This meal is not inherently keto, primarily due to the pasta. For a keto-friendly version, consider substituting with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles to keep the flavors while reducing carbs.
Conclusion
In just 30 minutes, your kitchen will fill with the delightful aroma of my One-Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta. It’s a comforting, flavorful dish that feels like a warm hug! You’ll love how it all comes togetherno fuss, just pure deliciousness.
Feel free to jazz it up with some extra veggies or a splash of lime for brightness! I like to keep leftovers in the fridge, ready for a quick reheatgreat for busy lunches. A trick I learned from my aunt is to sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for that added vibrancy.
Have you made something similar in your kitchen? I’d love to hear your stories or see your versions! Don’t forget to share and save this recipe for your family gatheringsit’s bound to become a new favorite!
