Fajita Chicken Pasta Skillet

Bring the vibrant flavors of the Southwest to your dinner table with this Fajita Chicken Pasta Skillet. This dish combines the smoky, spiced notes of traditional fajitas with the comforting creaminess of a cheesy pasta sauce, all prepared in a single skillet for a quick and satisfying meal that is perfect for any night of the week.

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The secret to this recipe is the aromatic marinade, which ensures every strip of chicken is infused with garlic, cumin, and lime juice. When combined with heavy cream and a mix of cheddar and mozzarella, the result is a rich, flavor-packed sauce that coats every piece of pasta perfectly.

Ingredients

• Chicken & Marinade: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 500 g), cut into thin strips; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 teaspoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; Juice of 1/2 lime.
• Vegetables: 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced.
• Pasta & Sauce: 300 g (10 oz) penne or rotini pasta; 400 ml (1 2/3 cups) chicken broth; 120 ml (1/2 cup) heavy cream; 120 g (1 cup) shredded cheddar cheese; 60 g (1/2 cup) shredded mozzarella cheese.
• Garnishes (optional): Fresh cilantro, chopped; Lime wedges; Sliced jalapeños.

Instructions

Step 1

In a bowl, combine chicken strips with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, black pepper, and lime juice. Toss to coat and marinate for 10 minutes.

Step 2

Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 3

Heat a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken to a plate.

Step 4

In the same skillet, add a splash of olive oil if needed. Sauté bell peppers and onion for 4–5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

Step 5

Return chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Add cooked pasta, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.

Step 6

Reduce heat to low and add cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Stir until cheeses melt and the sauce is creamy and coats the pasta.

Step 7

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 8

Serve hot, garnished with cilantro, lime wedges, and jalapeños if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For an even juicier result, you can substitute the chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Ensure the skillet is properly heated before adding the chicken to achieve a beautiful golden-brown sear that locks in the juices.

Varianten und Anpassungen

To accommodate dietary needs, you can easily use certified gluten-free pasta. If you enjoy a spicy kick, add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the spice blend or finish the dish with a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.

Serviervorschläge

Serve the pasta hot directly from the skillet, garnished generously with chopped fresh cilantro and extra lime wedges. This meal pairs exceptionally well with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a chilled Mexican lager to balance the smoky spices.

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This Fajita Chicken Pasta Skillet is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings a festive Tex-Mex flair to your kitchen. With its rich sauce and bold seasonings, it is a comforting yet vibrant dish that will satisfy your cravings for both pasta and fajitas in every delicious bite.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to 4 hours in advance. Cook the pasta separately and combine everything just before serving for the best texture and creaminess.

→ What pasta works best for this dish?

Penne and rotini are ideal because their ridged surfaces hold the creamy sauce well. You can also use farfalle or another short pasta that captures the sauce beautifully.

→ How do I make this spicier?

Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the marinade, use jalapeños in the garnish, or serve with hot sauce on the side. Adjust the heat level gradually to suit your preference.

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Chicken thighs are actually preferred as they remain juicier during cooking. Cut them into similar-sized strips and follow the same cooking instructions.

→ How do I prevent the sauce from breaking?

Add the cream on medium-low heat and stir constantly. Avoid boiling the sauce vigorously, and ensure the heat is reduced before adding cheese. This keeps the sauce smooth and cohesive.

→ What can I serve with this skillet dish?

Pair it with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, Mexican lager, or sparkling agua fresca. A fresh green salad or garlic bread complements the creamy, spiced flavors perfectly.