Are you ready for a delicious and hassle-free dinner? One-Pan Chicken Fajita Pasta is the answer to your cravings! This delightful dish combines all the vibrant, zesty flavors of classic chicken fajitas with the comforting satisfaction of pasta. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe not only cuts down on cooking time but also minimizes clean-up, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal without the extra hassle.
Why We Love This One-Pan Chicken Fajita Pasta Recipe
This One-Pan Chicken Fajita Pasta is loved by many for its incredible flavor and ease of preparation. The blend of spices, fresh vegetables, and creamy sauce creates a satisfying harmony that tantalizes your taste buds. You get the protein-packed goodness of chicken along with the crunch of bell peppers and onions, all brought together by a luxurious creamy sauce. Plus, the one-pan approach means you can spend more time enjoying your meal with family or friends instead of scrubbing pots and pans afterward!
Ingredients about One-Pan Chicken Fajita Pasta
To whip up this mouthwatering dish, you will need the following ingredients:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 8 oz pasta (your choice)
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
- 2 bell peppers (red and green), sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp fajita seasoning
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
How to Make One-Pan Chicken Fajita Pasta Directions
Getting started with this One-Pan Chicken Fajita Pasta is straightforward and quick. Here’s how you can make this delicious dish step-by-step:
- Begin by heating a generous splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This will create a great base for cooking your ingredients.
- Once the oil is hot, add the sliced chicken breast to the skillet. Cook this until the chicken is browned and fully cooked through, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Be sure to stir it occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- After the chicken is browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. This ensures the chicken stays moist while you work on the other ingredients.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté these vegetables until they are softened, roughly 4-5 minutes. The vibrant colors will not only look appealing but also provide a wonderful aroma.
- Next, stir in the minced garlic and fajita seasoning. This combination will release delightful flavors into the skillet. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
- It’s time to add the chicken back into the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth, bring it to a simmer, and allow the flavors to meld together.
- Now, carefully add the pasta to the skillet. Stir it to ensure the pasta is covered in the liquid, and then cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes for al dente.
- Once the pasta has reached the desired texture, it’s time to mix in the heavy cream. Stir this into the pasta and let it cook for a few more minutes until the sauce thickens up beautifully.
- As a final touch, add salt and pepper to your liking. Taste and adjust the flavors.
- Before serving, garnish your dish with freshly chopped cilantro for that extra pop of freshness.
How to Serve One-Pan Chicken Fajita Pasta
Serving One-Pan Chicken Fajita Pasta is a delight because it looks as good as it tastes. Spooning the creamy noodle mixture into a shallow bowl will showcase the colorful veggies and tender chicken beautifully. You can enhance the presentation by adding a few sprigs of cilantro on top for a vibrant touch.
Consider serving it with lime wedges on the side; a squeeze of lime adds a refreshing zing that elevates the dish. This pasta dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or warm tortilla chips for that truly authentic fajita experience.
Expert Tips: One-Pan Chicken Fajita Pasta
To make your One-Pan Chicken Fajita Pasta even better, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:
- Opt for Whole Wheat Pasta: Using whole wheat or a high-protein pasta can enhance the nutritional value of this dish and make it a bit heartier.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to get creative with your vegetable choices. Adding corn, zucchini, or even black beans can introduce new textures and flavors to the dish.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier kick, you can always add a pinch of cayenne pepper or sliced jalapeños along with the garlic.
- Meal Prep in Mind: This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can cook it in advance and store portions in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh spices and ingredients. Fresh herbs can make a significant difference in the overall taste of your dish.
How to Store One-Pan Chicken Fajita Pasta
Storing your One-Pan Chicken Fajita Pasta is simple. Once the dish has cooled to room temperature, transfer it into an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of chicken broth or cream back into the pan to revive the consistency before warming it up over medium heat.
If you want to extend its shelf life, you can freeze the pasta. Allow it to cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container. This way, you can enjoy this flavorful meal for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat as mentioned above.
Variation of One-Pan Chicken Fajita Pasta
There are countless ways to mix things up with your One-Pan Chicken Fajita Pasta, making it a versatile option that never gets old. Here are a few variations you could try:
- Shrimp Fajita Pasta: Swap out the chicken for shrimp. Cook the shrimp until they are just pink, and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Vegetarian Version: Use sautéed mushrooms and chickpeas instead of chicken for a vegetarian-friendly option. This still retains the delicious flavors without the meat.
- Cheesy Addition: If you love cheese, consider adding shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even cream cheese with the heavy cream to make the sauce ultra-creamy and indulgent.
- Spaghetti Squash Alternative: For a lighter alternative, you can substitute traditional pasta with spaghetti squash, giving you all the flavor with fewer carbs.
- Global Twist: Add some Italian flair by mixing in Italian seasonings and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This creates a unique fusion that is sure to please everyone.
FAQ
What is One-Pan Chicken Fajita Pasta?
One-Pan Chicken Fajita Pasta is a delicious, easy-to-cook meal that combines chicken, pasta, bell peppers, onions, and creamy sauce into one pot for minimal clean-up.
How long does it take to make One-Pan Chicken Fajita Pasta?
You can make One-Pan Chicken Fajita Pasta in about 30-40 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Can I make One-Pan Chicken Fajita Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare One-Pan Chicken Fajita Pasta ahead of time and store it in the fridge for 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What can I serve with One-Pan Chicken Fajita Pasta?
This pasta dish pairs well with a side salad, warm tortilla chips, or even some avocado slices for a fresh touch.
How do I store leftovers of One-Pan Chicken Fajita Pasta?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat with a splash of cream or broth for best results.
One-Pan Chicken Fajita Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 8 oz pasta (your choice) Any type of pasta can be used.
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
Vegetables
- 2 bell peppers (red and green), sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp fajita seasoning
- Olive oil For cooking
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by heating a generous splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the sliced chicken breast to the skillet and cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and bell peppers and sauté until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and fajita seasoning, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
- Add the chicken back into the skillet, pour in the chicken broth, and bring to a simmer.
- Carefully add the pasta to the skillet, stir to ensure the pasta is covered in the liquid, and cook according to the package instructions, about 8-10 minutes for al dente.
- Once the pasta is cooked, mix in the heavy cream and let it cook for a few more minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Add salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.
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