Chicken Fajita Pasta

If you’re looking for a dish that combines the vibrant flavors of sizzling chicken fajitas with the comforting texture of pasta, look no further than Chicken Fajita Pasta. This one-pot wonder is not only quick to prepare but also bursts with zesty flavors that will have everyone at the table coming back for seconds. Perfect for busy weeknights or a delicious weekend meal, Chicken Fajita Pasta is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe and how to make it!

Reasons to Love Chicken Fajita Pasta

• Quick and easy to prepare—ready in under 30 minutes!
• One-pot meal means less cleanup, which is always a win.
• Loaded with colorful veggies for a nutritious boost.
• Flavor-packed with spices that bring the fiesta to your dinner table.
• Customizable to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

What You’ll Need

• 2 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Pinch of salt
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast halves or tenders
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 whole onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup milk
• 14.5 ounces canned diced tomatoes, undrained
• 8 ounces penne pasta, regular or whole wheat
• 2 teaspoons salt
• Salsa and sour cream, for topping, if desired.

Kitchen Gear Checklist

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for making everything in one pot.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without damaging your cookware.
• Cutting board: For chopping your veggies and chicken.
• Sharp knife: Essential for easy and safe chopping.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.

Chicken Fajita Pasta: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the vegetable oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and coat it well with the marinade. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken to the pot. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Once fully cooked, remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they are tender and fragrant. Add the additional minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked chicken to the pot and pour in the chicken broth and milk. Stir well to combine everything.

Step 5: Add Pasta and Tomatoes

Add the canned diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the penne pasta to the pot. Stir everything together, ensuring the pasta is submerged in the liquid.

Step 6: Cook the Pasta

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 7: Season and Serve

Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Once the pasta is cooked and creamy, serve it hot, topped with your favorite salsa and a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Make It Diet-Friendly

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
• Low-carb: Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
• Dairy-free: Replace the milk with almond milk or coconut milk.
• Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables, such as mushrooms or black beans.

Pro Perspective

This Chicken Fajita Pasta is not only a delicious meal but also a versatile one. You can switch up the vegetables based on what you have on hand, such as using yellow bell peppers, adding corn, or even tossing in some spinach for extra greens. The spice level can also be adjusted by adding jalapeños or cayenne pepper for those who love a bit of heat.

Prep Ahead & Store

This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The cooked Chicken Fajita Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen it up if necessary.

Common Qs About Chicken Fajita Pasta

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne works wonderfully, you can swap it for any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli, rotini, or even spaghetti.

What can I do if my pasta is too dry after cooking?

If you find your pasta is too dry, add a little more chicken broth or milk to loosen it up. Stir and heat on low until creamy again.

Can I freeze Chicken Fajita Pasta?

Yes, you can freeze this dish! Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Definitely! The flavors are mild yet flavorful, making it appealing to kids. You can also allow them to customize their toppings to make it even more fun!

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• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
• Easy Taco Soup
• One-Pan Lemon Chicken and Rice
• Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa

Serve & Enjoy

Now that you’ve created this delightful Chicken Fajita Pasta, it’s time to serve it up and enjoy! This dish is perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even a cozy night in. Pair it with a fresh salad and some warm bread for a complete meal that everyone will love. Don’t forget to take a moment to appreciate the colorful presentation before diving in. Bon appétit!