If you’re craving a vibrant, comforting, and flavorful meal that combines the zesty punch of Mexican spices with the creamy indulgence of pasta, then this Chicken Fajita Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. It brilliantly marries tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and perfectly cooked farfalle pasta in a luscious, cheesy sauce that’s sure to wow your taste buds. Every bite bursts with familiar fajita flavors, making it a delightful twist on two classic favorites that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Chicken Fajita Pasta Recipe lies in its simplicity and the fresh, quality ingredients that come together so harmoniously. Each component plays a crucial role: from the juicy chicken that adds protein, to the trio of vibrant bell peppers giving texture and sweetness, all balanced by the aromatic spices and creamy cheddar that bring the dish to life.
- Unsalted butter (2 tbsp): Provides a rich base for sautéing and adds a silky texture to the sauce.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 ½ lbs, sliced): The hearty protein star that soaks up all the bold fajita seasoning.
- Red, yellow, and green bell peppers (1 medium each, sliced): Offers a beautiful color contrast and fresh, crisp sweetness.
- Yellow onion (1 medium, sliced): Adds depth and a subtle natural sweetness to the dish.
- Salt (½ tsp): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- Black pepper (1 tsp): Brings a mild heat and complexity to the seasoning.
- Chili powder (1 ½ tbsp): Delivers authentic fajita spice with smoky undertones.
- Cumin (3 tsp): Adds earthiness and warmth, a hallmark of Mexican cuisine.
- Brown sugar (1 tsp): Balances spice with a touch of sweetness for harmony.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses aromatic punch that lifts the entire dish.
- Milk (5 cups): Creates the creamy, dreamy sauce that ties everything together.
- Farfalle pasta (4 cups): The playful bowtie shape holds the sauce beautifully.
- Cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts into the sauce, giving the dish a luscious, savory finish.
How to Make Chicken Fajita Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Searing the Chicken
Begin by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken breasts and cook until they develop a gorgeous golden brown crust, about 5 to 6 minutes. This initial sear locks in flavor and juices, ensuring every bite is succulent. When done, remove the chicken and set aside so you can layer the flavors in the next steps.
Step 2: Sautéing the Veggies
In the same skillet, toss in the colorful bell peppers and sliced onion. Cooking these in the leftover butter and chicken drippings is pure magic because it deepens their natural sweetness while softening them to the perfect tender-crisp texture. Sauté for around 5 to 6 minutes until they’re just soft enough to melt in your mouth.
Step 3: Bringing on the Fajita Seasonings
Now it’s time to reunite the chicken with the cooked vegetables in the skillet. Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, chili powder, cumin, brown sugar, and minced garlic. Stir everything together so each piece is coated in that vibrant, spicy-sweet seasoning blend. You’ll instantly smell those irresistible fajita aromas filling your kitchen.
Step 4: Simmering with Milk and Pasta
Pour in the milk and add the farfalle pasta straight to the skillet. Turn up the heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil before reducing it to medium heat. Let everything simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is perfectly tender and has absorbed all those fabulous flavors. The milk will thicken into a creamy sauce that hugs every piece of pasta, chicken, and vegetable.
Step 5: Melting in the Cheddar Cheese
Turn the heat down to low and stir in the cup of sharp cheddar cheese. Watch as it melts smoothly into the sauce, giving it a rich, velvety finish with a fantastic cheesy tang. This step is what truly transforms this recipe into a comforting, soul-satisfying meal.
Step 6: Ready to Serve
Your Chicken Fajita Pasta Recipe is now ready to delight! Serve it hot, straight from the pan, and get ready for compliments on this hearty and flavorful dish.
How to Serve Chicken Fajita Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate the dish visually and taste-wise. Fresh chopped parsley adds a dash of vibrant color and a hint of brightness that cuts through the richness. You can also sprinkle a few extra pinches of chili powder or a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a zesty kick that complements the creamy pasta beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Chicken Fajita Pasta Recipe is rich and filling on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables balances the meal perfectly. You could also serve it alongside warm garlic bread or tortilla chips for a fun Tex-Mex twist.
Creative Ways to Present
For a playful touch, dish the pasta into individual taco shells or crispy baked tortilla bowls to merge the fajita concept with presentation. Alternatively, layer it in a casserole dish topped with extra cheese and broil for a few minutes to get a bubbly, golden crust that’s sure to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your feast, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The Chicken Fajita Pasta Recipe keeps well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Freezing
If you want to save this dish for a longer stretch, it freezes nicely. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will keep for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing for best results.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring frequently. Adding a splash of milk or water helps keep the sauce creamy and prevents the pasta from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this Chicken Fajita Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! While farfalle is great for holding onto the sauce, you can substitute with penne, rotini, or even rigatoni. Just adjust cooking time as needed based on the pasta shape you choose.
Is this recipe spicy?
This Chicken Fajita Pasta Recipe balances warmth and spice without being overwhelming. If you prefer more heat, you can add diced jalapeños or sprinkle in cayenne pepper. Conversely, tone down the chili powder for a milder version.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Swap out the chicken for hearty vegetables like mushrooms or plant-based chicken substitutes. You may want to increase the seasoning slightly to maintain that bold fajita flavor.
What type of cheddar cheese works best?
A sharp or extra sharp cheddar cheese adds the most flavor and creaminess, but you can use mild cheddar for a subtler taste. Just make sure to grate it fresh for better melting.
Can I prepare part of this recipe ahead of time?
You can chop the vegetables and slice the chicken a day in advance to save time. Even pre-mixing the spice blend helps the cooking come together quickly when you’re ready to make this Chicken Fajita Pasta Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Fajita Pasta Recipe is a joyous celebration of bold flavors and comforting textures that will quickly become a household favorite. It’s the kind of dish you’ll be excited to make again and again, whether for family dinners or impressing friends with something a little different. Give it a try and watch how it wins over every palate at your table!
Print
Chicken Fajita Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American Fusion
Description
This Chicken Fajita Pasta is a flavorful fusion dish combining the bold, spicy tastes of traditional chicken fajitas with creamy pasta. Tender chicken breasts are sautéed with vibrant bell peppers and onions, then simmered with farfalle pasta in a seasoned milk sauce, finished off with melted cheddar cheese for a rich and comforting meal perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Proteins & Dairy
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
- 5 cups milk
- 1 cup cheddar cheese
Produce
- 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium yellow onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Pantry & Spices
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 ½ tbsp chili powder
- 3 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp brown sugar
- 4 cups farfalle pasta
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken breasts and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced red, yellow, and green bell peppers along with the sliced yellow onion. Sauté for approximately 5 to 6 minutes or until the vegetables are soft and slightly caramelized.
- Add Seasonings and Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, chili powder, cumin, brown sugar, and minced garlic. Stir well to evenly coat all the ingredients with the spices.
- Cook Pasta in Milk: Pour in the milk and add the farfalle pasta to the skillet. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally until the pasta is tender and the liquid has thickened into a creamy sauce.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the cheddar cheese until it melts completely and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
- Serve: Serve the Chicken Fajita Pasta hot, optionally garnished with fresh parsley for added color and freshness.
Notes
- Use whole milk for a richer and creamier sauce; you may substitute with 2% milk but the sauce will be less creamy.
- Adjust chili powder and cumin according to your preferred spice level.
- Farfalle pasta can be substituted with other short pasta shapes like penne or rotini.
- If the sauce thickens too much during simmering, add a splash of milk to loosen it up.
- Fresh parsley is an optional garnish that adds brightness but can be omitted.
