Quick Easy One-Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta
If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and delicious meal that brings the bold flavors of fajitas into a comforting pasta dish, then you’ll love this One-Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta recipe. This dish combines tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, zesty spices, and al dente pasta, all cooked together in one pot. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and is sure to please the whole family!
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 12 oz. penne pasta (or any pasta of your choice)
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Cooking Instructions
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Sauté the Chicken: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
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Cook the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the sliced onion and bell peppers. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
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Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the pot and stir to combine with the vegetables. Add the penne pasta and pour in the chicken broth. Stir well to ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
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Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Finish the Dish: Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the sour cream and half of the shredded cheese until creamy and well combined. Top with the remaining cheese and cover for a few minutes until the cheese melts.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
Cooking Tips
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Ingredient Selection: Fresh ingredients will elevate the flavors of your dish. Choose vibrant, firm bell peppers and high-quality chicken breast for the best results.
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Pasta Variety: While penne works wonderfully, feel free to use fusilli, farfalle, or even whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a different twist.
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Spice Level: Adjust the chili powder to your taste preference. For a spicier dish, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
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Make It Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for black beans or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or corn.
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Meal Prep: This dish is great for meal prepping. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your One-Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta with a fresh garden salad or spicy Mexican street corn for a complete meal. You can also serve it with warm tortillas or tortilla chips for added crunch!
Related Recipes and Resources
- For more delicious one-pot meals, check out our One-Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta or One-Pot Spinach and Ricotta Pasta.
- Interested in experimenting with different cuisines? Dive into our Global Pasta Dishes for inspiration.
Conclusion
This Quick Easy One-Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta is not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor that will transport your taste buds to a fiesta! Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress. Try it out and let the vibrant flavors of fajitas shine through in this hearty pasta dish. Don’t forget to share your creations and experiences with us! Happy cooking!
