Creamy One-Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta
A delicious and easy one-pot chicken fajita pasta recipe perfect for busy weeknights. Creamy, flavorful, and family-friendly!
Equipment
- 1 large pot suitable for cooking pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 red bell pepper sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper sliced
- 1 green bell pepper sliced
- 1 onion sliced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fajita seasoning
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken strips and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside. In the same pot, add more olive oil if necessary, and sauté the sliced bell peppers, onion, and garlic until tender.
- Stir in the fajita seasoning, ensuring the vegetables are well-coated.
- Return the chicken to the pot and add the penne pasta. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook for about 12-15 minutes until pasta is al dente.
- Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Serving
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Storage
- Allow to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Notes
Pro Tips: Use fresh ingredients for the most vibrant flavors. Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of fajita seasoning and red pepper flakes based on your family's preference. Consider adding a splash of lime juice at the end to brighten the dish.
Ingredient Substitutions: Substitute cheddar cheese with mozzarella for a different flavor. Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
How to Serve: Pair with a fresh green salad or crusty bread.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of cream to restore creaminess.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the chicken and vegetables in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
Ingredient Substitutions: Substitute cheddar cheese with mozzarella for a different flavor. Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
How to Serve: Pair with a fresh green salad or crusty bread.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of cream to restore creaminess.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the chicken and vegetables in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.