Creamy Chicken Fajita Pasta with Peppers and Onions

Indulge your taste buds with a delightful fusion of flavors in this Creamy Chicken Fajita Pasta with Peppers and Onions. Combining tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and creamy sauce, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to whip up this culinary masterpiece!

Ingredients

• 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Chicken and Vegetables

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced chicken and season with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and bell peppers. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to incorporate. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the creamy sauce.
2. Allow the pasta to heat through for a couple of minutes.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Serve the Creamy Chicken Fajita Pasta in bowls, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
2. Enjoy the explosion of flavors!

Cooking Tips

• Chicken Selection: Opt for fresh chicken breasts for better flavor. If you’re short on time, you can use rotisserie chicken for a quick alternative.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition.
• Spice Level: Adjust the spices to your taste. For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
• Cheese Options: If cheddar isn’t your favorite, try using pepper jack for a zesty twist or a blend of Mexican cheeses for a richer flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

Pairing Suggestions

This Creamy Chicken Fajita Pasta pairs beautifully with a side of fresh guacamole and tortilla chips. A crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette can also complement the richness of the pasta.

Food Photography Ideas

Capture the vibrant colors of this dish by plating it in a rustic bowl and garnishing it with freshly chopped cilantro. Consider using natural light for your photos, and a simple backdrop to highlight the dish’s textures and colors.

Further Exploration

To enhance your cooking skills and explore more delicious recipes, consider checking out these resources:

• Pasta Cooking Tips
• Chicken Preparation Techniques

Conclusion

The Creamy Chicken Fajita Pasta with Peppers and Onions is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with flavor and satisfaction. This dish invites you to get creative in the kitchen, experimenting with spices and ingredients to make it your own. So, gather your ingredients, bring out your inner chef, and enjoy this culinary delight with family and friends. Happy cooking!