One Pan Chicken Fajita Pasta

When I first discovered One Pan Chicken Fajita Pasta, I was looking for a dish that combined all my favorite flavors into one easy meal. Picture a busy weeknight where you want to whip up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish hit the spot! With tender chunks of chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and a creamy sauce, it quickly became a family favorite. The best part? Everything cooks in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Every bite bursts with flavor, and it’s hard to believe it all comes together so effortlessly.

Ingredients to Make One Pan Chicken Fajita Pasta

The ingredients for One Pan Chicken Fajita Pasta are carefully selected to create a balance of flavors and textures that work together beautifully. From the tender chicken to the vibrant bell peppers, each component plays a crucial role in this dish. The creamy sauce brings everything together, making every bite satisfying and comforting.

• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1 1/2 inch pieces
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, divided
• 1 cup diced yellow onion
• 1 1/2 cups diced bell peppers, red, orange, green, or yellow
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup salsa
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 8 ounces short pasta
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Optional Topping: sour cream, guacamole, chopped cilantro

How to Cook One Pan Chicken Fajita Pasta

Cooking One Pan Chicken Fajita Pasta is a straightforward process that guarantees delicious results. It’s all about layering flavors and allowing them to shine. Follow the steps closely to ensure you capture all the goodness in each bite.

1. Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. You want the oil hot enough to sizzle when you add the chicken. This step is essential for getting a good sear on the meat, which adds depth to the flavor. Once the oil is shimmering, add the pieces of chicken.

2. Season the chicken with about 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt (or to taste) and sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon of chili powder and 1/4 teaspoon of cumin over it. Cook the chicken for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and place it on a plate to rest.

3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the diced onion and bell peppers. This step is where the magic happens as the veggies begin to soften and caramelize, absorbing all the delicious flavors left in the pan. Sprinkle with the remaining 1/4 teaspoon of chili powder and 1/4 teaspoon of cumin to enhance their taste. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until they are just tender.

4. Next, pour in the chicken broth, salsa, and heavy cream. Stir everything together, allowing the flavors to mingle. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This creamy base is what makes the dish so comforting and rich.

5. Now it’s time to add the short pasta. Stir it in, ensuring it’s fully submerged in the liquid. Cover the pan and let it cook for about 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, keeping the lid on as much as possible to retain the heat.

6. When the pasta is tender, remove the lid and squeeze in the juice of 1 lime. Add back the cooked chicken and veggies to the pan, heating everything together until warmed through. This will brighten the dish, giving it a fresh flavor punch.

7. Finally, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into a creamy sauce. This is the finishing touch that brings everything together. Serve hot, topped with your choice of sour cream, guacamole, or chopped cilantro for added flavor.

How to Switch It Up

There are endless ways to enjoy One Pan Chicken Fajita Pasta. Here are some tips to customize this dish to your liking:

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Freezing: You can freeze the pasta before adding cheese. This way, you’ll preserve its texture. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Variations: Try swapping out chicken for shrimp or even a plant-based protein for a different twist.
• Toppings: Get creative with toppings! Add sliced jalapeños for some heat, or diced avocado for creaminess.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can elevate the flavor profile further. Add them right before serving.

Great Combinations for One Pan Chicken Fajita Pasta

Serving One Pan Chicken Fajita Pasta opens up a world of delicious possibilities. Here are some ideas:

• Side Salads: Pair this dish with a refreshing green salad topped with a zesty vinaigrette. The crunch balances the creamy pasta.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for dipping into the delicious sauce.
• Lunch Option: This recipe can easily be transformed into a hearty lunch meal. Pack it in your lunchbox for a delightful mid-day treat.
• Seasonal Sides: During the summer, grilled corn or a fruit salad complements the flavors of this dish beautifully.
• Occasions: This recipe is perfect for casual family dinners or even for entertaining guests, impressing everyone with minimal effort.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, One Pan Chicken Fajita Pasta is a delightful blend of convenience and flavor that’s perfect for any night of the week. Not only does it satisfy your cravings, but it also makes weeknight cooking a breeze. So why not give it a try? I’m sure it will quickly become a favorite in your household, just like it has in mine!

One Pan Chicken Fajita Pasta

The ultimate comfort food that combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and creamy goodness in one pot. One Pan Chicken Fajita Pasta is a quick and easy weeknight dinner that will satisfy the whole family. Perfect for busy nights when you need a delicious meal without the hassle!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 570

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 3 tablespoons olive oil divided
• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 1 1/2 inch pieces
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder divided
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin divided
• 1 cup diced yellow onion
• 1 1/2 cups diced bell peppers red, orange, green, or yellow
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup salsa
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 8 ounces short pasta
• 1 lime juiced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Optional Topping: sour cream, guacamole, chopped cilantro

Equipment

• Frying Pan
• Chef's Knife
• Cutting Board
• Wooden Spoon

Method

 

1. In a large saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken to the pan and season the chicken breast pieces with about 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt or to taste. Sprinkle chicken with 1/4 teaspoon chili powder and 1/4 teaspoon cumin. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes or until cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside on a plate.
2. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and add the onion and bell peppers. Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 teaspoon chili powder and 1/4 teaspoon of cumin. Cook veggies over medium-high heat until soft. Remove from the pan and set aside with the chicken.
3. Add the chicken broth, salsa, and cream to the pan. Add the pasta and cook covered for 15-20 minutes until pasta is done, stirring every so often, replacing the lid quickly so the heat doesn’t escape.
4. When pasta is done, stir in the lime juice and add the chicken and veggies back to the pan heating until warmed through.
5. Stir in the cheese until melted and top with desired toppings.

Notes

• Tip 1: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Tip 2: You can freeze the pasta before adding cheese. This way, you'll preserve its texture. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Tip 3: Try swapping out chicken for shrimp or even a plant-based protein for a different twist.
• Tip 4: Get creative with toppings! Add sliced jalapeños for some heat, or diced avocado for creaminess.
• Tip 5: Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can elevate the flavor profile further. Add them right before serving.

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Meet Piper Cross

I am obsessed with using fresh, seasonal produce to make meals shine. I believe a squeeze of citrus or a handful of herbs can change everything. I cooked and photographed this dish with a focus on vibrant colors and natural textures, ensuring it looks as good as it tastes when you make it.