Craving something bold, comforting, and easy to make? Look no further than One-Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta — a delicious fusion of Tex-Mex flavors and creamy pasta goodness all made in a single pot. This dish takes the best parts of chicken fajitas (think juicy chicken, sautéed peppers, and onions) and combines them with pasta in a creamy, seasoned sauce that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this recipe requires minimal cleanup and delivers maximum flavor. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize for picky eaters, health-conscious foodies, or spice lovers.
Recommended Kitchen Tools
- Large deep skillet or Dutch oven
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Tongs
- Cheese grater (for fresh cheese)
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, sliced into strips
- 1 packet fajita seasoning (or homemade blend – see below)
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel or similar)
- 8 oz penne or rotini pasta (uncooked)
- ½ cup heavy cream (optional for richness)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish
Optional Homemade Fajita Seasoning:
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Preparation
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Season and Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season chicken with fajita seasoning and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside. - Cook the Veggies
In the same pot, add a little more oil if needed. Add sliced peppers and onions and sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute. - Add Pasta and Liquids
Return the chicken to the pot. Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and uncooked pasta. Stir everything together and bring to a boil. - Simmer and Cook
Reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. - Finish with Cream and Cheese
Stir in heavy cream (if using) and shredded cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. - Garnish and Serve
Top with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime. Serve hot!
Tips for Success
Slice ingredients evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- Use short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells that hold sauce well.
- Don’t overcook the pasta, especially since it continues to absorb liquid even after removing from heat.
- Add a splash of broth or milk if it thickens too much before serving.
- Grate your cheese fresh for smoother melting and better flavor.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for heat lovers.
- Vegetarian: Swap chicken for black beans, tofu, or sautéed mushrooms.
- Southwest Style: Add corn, black beans, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning.
- Cream-Free Version: Skip the cream for a lighter, broth-based sauce.
- Tex-Mex Bake: Transfer to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and broil for a crispy top.
Make It Fit Your Diet
- Low-Carb/Keto: Replace pasta with spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice (adjust liquid).
- Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free pasta.
- Dairy-Free: Skip the cheese and cream or use non-dairy alternatives.
- High-Protein: Use chickpea pasta or add a can of beans for a protein boost.
- Kid-Friendly: Tone down spice and add extra cheese to appeal to little taste buds.
Conclusion
One-Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta is the perfect answer to “What’s for dinner?” It’s rich, flavorful, and comforting — with just enough kick to satisfy your fajita cravings. The fact that it’s made in one pot and comes together in less than 30 minutes makes it a go-to recipe for busy families, meal preppers, and anyone looking to enjoy a homemade Tex-Mex meal without the hassle.
Whether you’re making it spicy, creamy, cheesy, or light — this dish never disappoints. Try it once, and it might just become a regular on your weekly dinner rotation!
