Looking for a meal that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor? You’ve found it! My Chicken Fajita Pasta Skillet combines juicy chicken, colorful peppers, and creamy cheese for a dish that hits all the right notes. In just one pan, you can whip up a satisfying dinner the whole family will love. Let’s jump right into this tasty recipe that will make your weeknight cooking a breeze!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- One-Pan Wonder: Cooking everything in one skillet means fewer dishes to clean up, allowing you to enjoy your meal stress-free.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices, veggies, and creamy cheese creates a delightful flavor profile that everyone will love.
- Customizable: You can easily modify this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz (226g) penne pasta
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cut into thin strips
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
Seasoning and Sauces
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Additional Ingredients
- ½ cup (120ml) chicken broth
- ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
To make Chicken Fajita Pasta Skillet, you need fresh and simple ingredients. First, gather the penne pasta, chicken breast, and colorful bell peppers. The chicken breast adds protein, while the peppers give it a nice crunch and flavor. The onion adds sweetness when cooked.
Next, you’ll need some spices. Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika create that fajita taste. Don’t forget salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. For creaminess, chicken broth and heavy cream work wonders.
Finally, shredded cheddar cheese ties everything together. It melts beautifully, making the dish rich and tasty. Olive oil helps cook the chicken and vegetables. Cilantro and lime wedges add freshness at the end.
This dish is quick, easy, and bursting with flavor! You’ll enjoy every bite.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
Fill a large pot with water. Add a generous pinch of salt and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta. Cook it until al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
Sautéing the Chicken
Next, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, add 1 pound of chicken breast cut into thin strips. Season the chicken with ½ teaspoon of sea salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm on a plate.
Cooking the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add 1 sliced red bell pepper, 1 sliced green bell pepper, and 1 sliced medium onion. Sauté the veggies for about 5-6 minutes until they are tender and slightly caramelized. After that, add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Combining Ingredients
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in ½ cup of low-sodium chicken broth and ½ cup of heavy cream. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Mixing in Pasta and Cheese
Now, carefully add the reserved penne pasta to the skillet. Stir to combine all the ingredients thoroughly. Gradually sprinkle in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese while mixing until the cheese melts and creates a creamy texture throughout the dish.
Serving the Dish
Finally, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the pasta with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve the dish with lime wedges on the side for a zesty touch. Enjoy your Chicken Fajita Pasta Skillet!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Chicken Fajita Pasta
To keep your chicken tender, use thin strips. This helps it cook fast and evenly. Make sure not to overcook it. I suggest cooking until it's just done, around 6-8 minutes.
Enhancing flavors is easy. Use fresh spices like chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. They add depth to the dish. Sauté the garlic just until fragrant for a nice kick. Mix in cheese at the end for a creamy finish.
Adjusting Spice Levels
You can customize spice levels to suit your taste. Add more chili powder for heat or try diced jalapeños. For a milder version, use less chili powder. You can even swap it for sweet paprika.
If you want less spice, add more cream. This balances the heat nicely. You can also use a mild cheese, like mozzarella, to tone it down.
Quick Preparation Tips
Streamline your cooking process by prepping all your ingredients first. Slice the chicken, peppers, and onion ahead of time. This way, everything cooks quickly.
Timing is key. Start boiling water for the pasta while you cook the chicken. This saves about 10 minutes. Cook the pasta just until al dente, then drain it. This helps keep it firm and tasty in the skillet.
Pro Tips
- Perfect Pasta: Always salt your pasta water generously. This enhances the flavor of the pasta itself.
- Chicken Tips: For juicier chicken, consider marinating it for 30 minutes before cooking. A simple mix of olive oil, lime juice, and spices works wonders.
- Vegetable Variations: You can add other vegetables like zucchini or corn for more texture and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for a spicier kick or cream cheese for extra creaminess.
Variations
Making it Vegetarian
You can easily make Chicken Fajita Pasta Skillet vegetarian. Simply swap the chicken for tofu or beans. Tofu adds a nice texture. Beans boost protein and fiber. You can use black beans or pinto beans for a hearty touch.
Adding more vegetables enhances flavor and nutrition. Consider using zucchini, corn, or mushrooms. These veggies cook quickly and soak up flavors. You can even add spinach for a pop of color and health benefits.
Alternative Sauces
Changing the sauce can change the dish completely. Try different types of cheese to mix things up. Pepper jack cheese adds a nice kick. Cream cheese creates a very creamy texture.
You can also use taco sauce or salsa for extra zest. These sauces bring bold flavors. Just stir them in when you combine the pasta. Adjust the amount based on your taste.
Other Pasta Options
Pasta shapes can also vary your dish. While penne works well, you can try fusilli or farfalle. Different shapes hold the sauce in unique ways. This can make each bite feel special.
For gluten-free options, use rice pasta or lentil pasta. These alternatives keep the dish tasty and fun. They cook quickly, just like regular pasta. You can enjoy this meal without gluten worries.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Chicken Fajita Pasta Skillet fresh, store it in an airtight container. Make sure it cools down before sealing. Place it in the fridge within two hours of cooking. This helps prevent bacteria growth. For freezing, use a freezer-safe container or bag. Remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months.
Reheating Methods
When you’re ready to eat, reheat the pasta in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist. Stir frequently to ensure even warming. You can also use a microwave-safe dish. Cover it with a damp paper towel to trap steam. Avoid reheating it multiple times to keep the texture nice.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, your Chicken Fajita Pasta Skillet lasts about three to four days. If you freeze it, it can last up to three months. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating. If it smells off or looks discolored, it’s best to toss it.
FAQs
What is Chicken Fajita Pasta Skillet?
Chicken Fajita Pasta Skillet is a fun twist on two favorites: fajitas and pasta. This dish features penne pasta, tender chicken, and colorful veggies. It’s seasoned with chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika for a burst of flavor. The creamy sauce, made with heavy cream and chicken broth, binds everything together. You get a warm, hearty meal in one skillet, making cleanup easy.
Can I make Chicken Fajita Pasta Skillet ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the chicken, veggies, and sauce up to a day in advance. Store them in the fridge in an airtight container. When ready to eat, just cook the pasta and mix everything together. If you want to reheat, do it on low heat to keep it nice and creamy.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, use more chili powder or add some diced jalapeños. You can also try adding a splash of hot sauce while cooking. If you want more depth, consider using chipotle powder for a smoky flavor. Adjust the heat to match your taste!
What type of cheese works best?
I recommend using sharp cheddar cheese for its strong flavor. Other good choices are pepper jack for spice or mozzarella for a milder taste. You can even mix cheeses for a creamier texture. Just make sure to add it slowly to let it melt evenly.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Kids love the mix of pasta and chicken. To make it even more appealing, you can cut the veggies into fun shapes or use colorful pasta. Serve it with a side of lime wedges for them to squeeze on top. This adds a fun touch kids enjoy!
In this article, we explored the ingredients and steps for making Chicken Fajita Pasta. You learned about the main ingredients and seasonings that create rich flavors. I shared tips to keep your chicken tender and variations to suit your tastes. Remember to store leftovers properly, and don’t hesitate to customize this dish to your liking. Now, you can enjoy a delicious, hearty meal that is easy to prepare. Happy cooking!
