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Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Pasta: Penne pasta works great here, but feel free to use any pasta shape you like. Fusilli or bowtie pasta also create a fun texture. If you’re gluten-free, try chickpea or whole wheat pasta for a healthier alternative.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to cook, but you can substitute with thighs for extra juiciness. If you’re vegetarian, try using black beans or grilled veggies instead.

Bell Peppers: Red and yellow peppers add color and sweetness. If they’re not available, green peppers are fine, though they’re slightly bitter. For a twist, try adding poblano peppers for a smoky flavor.

Heavy Cream: This makes the dish creamy. You can swap in half-and-half or a non-dairy milk like oat milk thickened with a bit of cornstarch for a lighter option.

Cheese: Cheddar is classic in this dish, but you can use Monterey Jack, pepper jack for extra spice, or even a dairy-free cheese if you want to keep it plant-based.

How Do I Cook Chicken Perfectly for Fajita Pasta?

Cooking chicken so it stays juicy and flavorful is crucial. Follow these simple steps for great results:

• Cut the chicken into thin slices so they cook evenly and quickly.
• Season well! The spices will infuse flavor as it cooks.
• Cook over medium-high heat; this gets a nice brown without drying out the inside.
• Only cook until the chicken is no longer pink in the center—about 5-7 minutes—this prevents overcooking.

Following this method will ensure your chicken is tender and adds great taste to your Fajita Pasta!

Fajita Pasta

Ingredients:

• 8 oz (225 g) penne pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped for garnish

How Much Time Will You Need?

This Fajita Pasta recipe will take about 30 minutes. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking it all together. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside—don’t forget to reserve a little pasta water in case you need it later!

2. Cook the Chicken:

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil. Add the sliced chicken and sprinkle on the chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring often, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Once cooked, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside.

3. Sauté the Veggies:

In the same skillet, add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers along with the onion. Sauté them for about 4-5 minutes until they’re tender-crisp. This will add great color and flavor to your dish!

4. Make the Sauce:

Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, using a spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—this adds extra flavor! Let this simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

5. Combine Pasta and Cheese:

Next, add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Stir in the shredded cheese until it melts and the pasta is well coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

6. Finish and Serve:

Adjust the seasoning by adding more salt and pepper if needed. Serve the Fajita Pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley. Enjoy every creamy, flavorful bite!

Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?

Absolutely! While penne works great, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Fusilli, rotini, or even spaghetti would be delicious alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions of the pasta you choose.

How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, simply replace the chicken with mushrooms, zucchini, or a mix of your favorite vegetables. You can also add black beans or chickpeas for protein. Just sauté the veggies alongside the onions and bell peppers until they’re tender.

Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Cook the pasta, chicken, and veggies, then store everything separately in the fridge for up to a day. When you’re ready to eat, simply combine everything in a skillet, add the cream and cheese, and reheat until warmed through.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth if needed to refresh the sauce.