Introduction
Weeknights often demand quick, satisfying meals. Chicken Fajita Pasta answers that call – a vibrant, flavorful fusion bringing the sizzling energy of Tex-Mex fajitas into a comforting bowl of pasta. This dish masterfully blends tender chicken, crisp bell peppers, and savory onions with a creamy, spiced sauce, all coating your preferred pasta. It’s a delightful culinary mash-up, perfect for families seeking a delicious, easy meal that’s far from ordinary. Transform your dinner routine with this irresistible fiesta on a plate.
Ingredients
To embark on this flavorful journey, gather these essentials:
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch strips
* 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for cooking
* 2 tablespoons fajita seasoning, store-bought or homemade
* 1 large red bell pepper, thinly sliced
* 1 large green bell pepper, thinly sliced
* 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
* 3 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 cup chicken broth
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 1/2 cup milk (any kind)
* 8 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or farfalle work wonderfully)
* 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or a Tex-Mex blend)
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
* Fresh cilantro, chopped, and lime wedges for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, toss chicken strips with 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon fajita seasoning. Marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water. Cook pasta al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water, then set aside.
3. Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken, cook 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
4. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed. Sauté bell peppers and onion for 5-7 minutes until tender-crisp. Add minced garlic and remaining 1 tablespoon fajita seasoning, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Build the Sauce: Pour in chicken broth, scraping up browned bits. Simmer, then stir in heavy cream and milk. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine and Finish: Return cooked chicken and drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Stir until coated. Add shredded cheese, stirring until melted and creamy. If too thick, add reserved pasta water. Serve immediately, garnished with cilantro and lime, if desired.
Expert Tips
For tender, flavorful chicken, marinate it for an hour or overnight in lime juice, olive oil, and fajita seasoning. When searing chicken and sautéing vegetables, avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches for a beautiful sear, preventing steaming. This ensures richer flavors. For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne or a diced jalapeño with the bell peppers. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving – a little extra salt or lime can elevate all flavors.
Variations
This Chicken Fajita Pasta is incredibly adaptable. Swap chicken for shrimp, thinly sliced steak, or plant-based options like black beans or portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. Experiment with different cheeses, such as sharp cheddar or smoky gouda. For a lighter sauce, reduce heavy cream and increase chicken broth, or use half-and-half. Add a can of drained black beans or corn during the final step for more texture and nutrition. Incorporate other seasonal vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes.
Conclusion
Chicken Fajita Pasta truly embodies the spirit of a home-cooked meal: comforting, flavorful, and joyful. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, when thoughtfully combined, create an extraordinary dish that feels both familiar and exciting. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a busy parent seeking a weeknight win, this recipe promises a fiesta of flavors everyone will adore. Gather your ingredients, and prepare to delight your taste buds with this unforgettable creation.
