about contact

Creamy Chicken Fajita Pasta

Creamy Chicken Fajita Pasta

by
Jump to Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Chicken Fajita Pasta is a comforting fusion dish that brings together the bold flavors of sizzling fajitas and the rich, creamy texture of pasta. It’s packed with tender chicken, bell peppers, and onions in a flavorful fajita-style seasoning, all tossed with creamy pasta for a satisfying one-pot meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

ingredients

Creamy Chicken Fajita Pasta this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken breasts
fajita seasoning
olive oil
bell peppers (red, yellow, green)
onion
garlic
penne or fettuccine pasta
chicken broth
heavy cream
cream cheese
shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend
salt
black pepper
fresh cilantro (for garnish)

directions

Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Season the chicken breasts with fajita seasoning.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

In the same skillet, sauté sliced bell peppers and onions until tender. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Reduce heat to medium-low. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.

Add cream cheese and shredded cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.

Return the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat everything in the creamy sauce.

Simmer for 2-3 minutes until heated through and well combined.

Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker meal.
Add a squeeze of lime for extra zest.
Swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter option.
Include black beans or corn for added texture and flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Add a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess if needed.

Creamy Chicken Fajita Pasta

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like rotini or bow tie works well.

Is this dish spicy?

It depends on the fajita seasoning used. Adjust spice level to taste.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cream and cheese alternatives, though flavor and texture may vary.

Can I freeze this pasta?

Freezing is possible, but the sauce may separate slightly upon reheating.

Can I use beef or shrimp instead?

Absolutely, just adjust cooking time accordingly.

How can I make it healthier?

Use whole wheat pasta and reduce the amount of cream and cheese.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach would be great additions.

What cheese works best?

A Mexican cheese blend or cheddar melts well and complements the flavors.

Do I need to marinate the chicken?

Not necessary, but you can marinate it in fajita seasoning for extra flavor.

Can I cook everything in one pot?

Yes, using an oven-safe skillet or deep sauté pan makes it a true one-pot meal.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Fajita Pasta is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines the zest of fajitas with the indulgent comfort of creamy pasta. It’s sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation, offering versatility, richness, and that irresistible Tex-Mex flair.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Creamy Chicken Fajita Pasta

Creamy Chicken Fajita Pasta

  • Author: simplemealsbykim
  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 20 mins
  • Total Time: 35 mins
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Dish / Pasta
  • Method: Stovetop / Sauté
  • Cuisine: Tex‑Mex / Fusion
  • Diet: Low Fat
Print Recipe

Description

A rich, comforting pasta dish blending tender chicken, sautéed fajita veggies, and a creamy seasoned sauce—a fusion of Tex‑Mex flavors with Italian pasta for an easy family meal.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz penne or rotini pasta
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into strips
  • 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tsp fajita seasoning (store‑bought or homemade)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium‑high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and 1 tsp fajita seasoning. Cook until no longer pink, about 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  3. In same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp olive oil. Sauté onions and peppers with remaining fajita seasoning until tender, about 4–5 minutes.
  4. Add garlic to veggies; cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth; bring to a gentle simmer and cook 2–3 minutes, stirring so sauce thickens slightly.
  6. Stir in cheese until melted and smooth.
  7. Return chicken to skillet, add cooked pasta, toss to coat everything evenly in creamy sauce.
  8. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with cilantro or parsley if using. Serve hot.

Notes

  • For lighter version, substitute half‑and‑half for heavy cream.
  • Add a squeeze of lime juice for tang.
  • Make it spicy by adding jalapeño or a dash of cayenne.
  • Make‑ahead tip: Prepare sauce and veggies ahead, then toss with freshly cooked pasta before serving.