Looking for a quick and tasty meal? You’ve found it! My One Pot Creamy Chicken Fajita Pasta is perfect for busy nights. This meal is loaded with flavor and comes together in just one pot. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare. Get ready to impress your family with chicken, veggies, and creamy goodness all in one dish. Let’s dive into making this delightful meal!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small red onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fajita seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 8 ounces penne pasta
Liquid Ingredients
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
Seasoning & Garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
This dish shines with colorful veggies. The olive oil gives a nice flavor. Chicken breast adds protein and makes it filling. The red and yellow bell peppers bring sweetness and crunch. Onion adds depth, and garlic gives a great aroma.
Fajita seasoning ties it all together. You can use store-bought or make your own mix. Penne pasta cooks perfectly in this creamy dish. It soaks up all the flavors.
For the liquid, chicken broth keeps it savory. Heavy cream makes it rich and smooth. Salt and pepper balance the flavors, while fresh cilantro adds a pop of color. Lime wedges brighten the plate and give a zesty kick. Each bite is a fiesta!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Chicken
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot. Use medium heat for this step. Once the oil is hot, add 1 pound of sliced chicken breast. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of fajita seasoning. Sauté the chicken for about 5-7 minutes. Cook it until it turns golden brown and is no longer pink inside. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside on a plate.
Sautéing the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers, along with the sliced red onion. Make sure to also add 3 cloves of minced garlic. Cook these vegetables for about 3-4 minutes. You want them to soften but still have a little crunch. Stir them often to prevent burning.
Cooking the Pasta
Next, add 8 ounces of penne pasta and 3 cups of chicken broth to the pot. Stir everything together to mix well. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking. Cook until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the broth.
Combining Ingredients
Now it’s time to add 1 cup of heavy cream to the pot. This will make the dish creamy and rich. Return the cooked chicken to the pot as well. Stir gently to combine everything together. Cook for an extra 2-3 minutes. This final step allows the pasta to soak up the creamy sauce. Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges on the side.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Flavor
To make your One Pot Creamy Chicken Fajita Pasta truly shine, focus on the seasoning. Start with the right amount of salt and pepper. Taste as you go. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away. If it feels flat, a little more salt can help.
Choosing a fajita seasoning is also key. You can use store-bought or make your own. If you want to make your own, mix chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder. This way, you control the spice level and flavor.
Cooking Technique
Stirring often is essential when cooking pasta. It prevents the pasta from sticking to the pot. When you add the penne, stir it right away. This keeps it from clumping together.
Make sure to check the pasta’s texture. You want it al dente, or slightly firm. When you add the heavy cream, it will soften a bit more. If the pasta seems too dry, add a splash of chicken broth to moisten it.
Serving Suggestions
For a great presentation, serve directly from the pot. It creates a homey feel. If you want a more polished look, plate individual servings. Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top and add a squeeze of lime.
Pair this dish with a simple side salad or garlic bread. A refreshing beverage like iced tea or a light beer works well too. These sides balance the meal and enhance the flavors.
Variations
Protein Alternatives
You can easily change the protein in this dish. If you love seafood, try using shrimp. Shrimp cooks fast and adds a nice flavor. Just sauté it until pink and tender. If you prefer beef, use thin strips of flank steak. Cook it the same way as chicken. For a vegetarian option, try using black beans or chickpeas. They add protein and a great texture.
Ingredient Swaps
Feel free to swap out the pasta. You can use any pasta shape you like. Bowtie or fusilli pasta work well too. If you want a healthier option, try whole wheat pasta. You can also change the veggies. Add zucchini or corn for extra taste. Spinach can be mixed in near the end for some greens. The more colors, the better!
Dietary Modifications
If you need a gluten-free meal, choose gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer pasta that tastes great. For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream. It adds a subtle sweetness and creamy texture. You can also find dairy-free cream options at the store. Just check the labels for best results.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your One Pot Creamy Chicken Fajita Pasta fresh, store it in an airtight container. This method keeps air out and moisture in. Place the container in the fridge. It will last about three to four days. For longer storage, you can freeze it. Divide the pasta into portions. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. This way, it can last for up to three months.
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is easy. For the microwave, place a portion in a bowl. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or wrap. Heat in short bursts, about one to two minutes. Stir after each burst to heat evenly.
If you prefer the stovetop, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent sticking. Add the pasta and stir often. Heat until it’s warm throughout, about five to seven minutes. Enjoy your creamy pasta just as much as the first time!
FAQs
How do I make One Pot Creamy Chicken Fajita Pasta in advance?
To prep this dish ahead of time, start by cooking the chicken and veggies as directed. Once cooked, let them cool. Store them in an airtight container. You can cook the pasta separately and mix it later. Combine the pasta with the chicken and veggies when you’re ready to eat. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed. This helps keep the pasta creamy and fresh.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! You can swap penne for other types of pasta. Good substitutes include fusilli, rotini, or even spaghetti. Just remember that cooking times may vary. Check the package directions to get it just right. You want the pasta to be al dente, so it holds up well in the creamy sauce.
Is it possible to make this dish spicy?
Absolutely! To add some heat, consider these tips:
- Use spicy fajita seasoning instead of mild.
- Add sliced jalapeños or diced green chilies when cooking the chicken.
- Stir in a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Adjust to your taste and enjoy your spicy twist on this creamy dish!
You now have all the steps to make One Pot Creamy Chicken Fajita Pasta. We covered the main ingredients, cooking methods, and helpful tips. Remember to adjust flavors to find your best taste. You can swap proteins or vegetables if you want variety. Store your leftovers well to enjoy later. Cooking this dish can be a fun and tasty experience. Dive in and make it your own! Enjoy your meal!
