One-Pot Creamy Fajita Pasta

Ingredients

• 1 lb Boneless chicken breast (Diced into small cubes)
• 1 tbsp Fajita seasoning for chicken (From the fajita spice mix below)
• 2 tsp Salt (For the fajita spice mix)
• 4 tbsp Garlic powder (For the fajita spice mix)
• 2 tsp Cumin powder (For the fajita spice mix)
• 2 tsp Cayenne pepper (For the fajita spice mix; adjust for desired spiciness)
• 2 tsp Smoked paprika (For the fajita spice mix)
• 1 tsp Chili powder (For the fajita spice mix)
• 2 tsp Oregano (For the fajita spice mix)
• 1 tsp Black pepper (For the fajita spice mix)
• 3 tbsp Oil
• 3 Garlic (Minced cloves)
• 1 cup Mixed bell pepper
• 1 White onion (Chopped)
• 2 cups Penne pasta (Uncooked)
• 4 cups Chicken broth (Water plus 2–3 tsp chicken bouillon powder may be substituted)
• 1 tbsp Fajita seasoning for pasta (Use 1–2 tbsp; more may be added to taste)
• 1.5 cups Cheddar cheese (Shredded)
• 1.5 cups Heavy whipping cream
• Fresh parsley (Chopped, for garnish)

Steps

1. 1

   Prepare the fajita spice mix by combining the salt, garlic powder, cumin powder, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, and black pepper.

2. 2

   Heat the oil in a wide pan or skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.

3. 3

   Add the diced chicken and cook for 1–2 minutes, until it changes color. Season with 1 tablespoon of the fajita seasoning.

4. 4

   Add the mixed bell pepper and chopped onion. Sauté for an additional 30 seconds, then season the vegetables with 1 1/2 tablespoons of the fajita seasoning mix.

5. 5

   Add the uncooked penne pasta and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

6. 6

   Cook over medium heat until the pasta is al dente. Check the seasoning and add salt if needed.

7. 7

   Add the heavy whipping cream and cook for 2–3 minutes.

8. 8

   Add the shredded cheddar cheese and mix well.

9. 9

   Taste and add more fajita seasoning if desired. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens.

10. 10

    Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm.

Notes

Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the spiciness. Diced tomatoes or jalapeños may be added for extra flavor. If chicken broth is unavailable, substitute 4 cups water and 2–3 teaspoons chicken bouillon powder. The source does not specify the exact amount of parsley, the precise simmering time for the pasta, or the amount of additional seasoning added at the end.

Nutrition per serving

• main
• one-pot
• pasta
• chicken
• Mexican-inspired
• creamy
• stovetop
• quick dinner