Fajita Pasta is a fun twist on classic flavors! This dish combines tender pasta with juicy chicken or beef, colorful peppers, and zesty spices, all in one pot.
The best part? It’s a quick meal that feels like a fiesta! I like to top mine with cheese and serve it with garlic bread for a tasty dinner that everyone enjoys.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: Penne is great for holding onto the sauce thanks to its ridges. If you don’t have it, feel free to use rotini, fusilli, or any short pasta you like!
Chicken or Beef: Use chicken breast for a milder flavor or beef strips for a heartier dish. You can substitute with tofu or a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option.
Bell Peppers: I love using a mix for color and flavor. If any bell peppers are out of season, you can swap for more onions, or even use zucchini or mushrooms for a different taste.
Spices: Chili powder and cumin bring the fajita flair. If you’re out of smoked paprika, regular paprika works too, or you can add a dash of liquid smoke for that smoky essence.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter dish, use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream if you prefer. This keeps the sauce creamy without being too rich.
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Chicken or Beef?
Cooking meat to the right doneness is key in this dish! Here’s how:
- Heat the olive oil until it’s shimmering but not smoking.
- Cut the chicken or beef into small, even pieces before cooking to ensure they cook through uniformly.
- Cook in batches if your skillet is small to avoid overcrowding; this helps achieve a nice sear.
- Use a meat thermometer—165°F for chicken and about 145°F for beef is perfect.
Letting meat rest after cooking before slicing also helps it stay juicy!
What’s the Best Way to Make a Creamy Sauce?
Creating that deliciously creamy sauce is all about timing. Here’s how to do it right:
- After sautéing the vegetables and adding spices, pour in the chicken broth and cream gradually.
- Stir and let it simmer to thicken; don’t rush this step! It allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Once you add the cheese, choose fresh shredded over pre-shredded for a creamier melt.
This will make the sauce luxuriously smooth and perfectly coated over your pasta!
How to Make Fajita Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta:
- 8 oz penne pasta
Protein:
- 1 lb chicken breast or beef strips
Vegetables:
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Spices:
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
- Lime wedges (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Fajita Pasta recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and satisfying dish perfect for weeknight dinners or meals when you’re short on time. You’ll enjoy the vibrant flavors combined in one delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by cooking the penne pasta in boiling salted water according to the package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Protein:
In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken or beef strips to the pan. Season them with salt, pepper, and half of the spices: chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Then, remove the meat from the pan and set it aside.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same pan, add a little extra oil if necessary. Sauté the sliced onions and bell peppers over medium heat, stirring frequently, until they become soft and vibrant, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Mix in the Spices:
Now, add the remaining spices (chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and optional cayenne pepper) to the sautéed vegetables. Stir well to ensure all the veggies are coated with the spices.
5. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring as it begins to simmer. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken or beef to the pan and add the drained pasta along with the shredded cheese. Stir everything together until the cheese melts and all the ingredients are well combined in the creamy fajita sauce.
7. Adjust and Serve:
Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Serve your Fajita Pasta hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or parsley, and lime wedges on the side if desired. Enjoy this vibrant and creamy dish!
This Fajita Pasta brings the excitement of fajitas into a comforting pasta dish that’ll satisfy everyone at your table!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne works great for this dish, you can substitute it with any short pasta like fusilli, rotini, or even bowtie pasta. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed!
Is There a Way to Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting the chicken or beef with plant-based protein like tofu, tempeh, or even mushrooms. Just cook the veggies as instructed and add your chosen protein for a delicious meat-free version.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to bring back some creaminess.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add other veggies like zucchini, corn, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the bell peppers and onions until tender.