Craving a dish that combines bold flavors with simple steps? Look no further than Chicken Fajita Pasta! This recipe is a delightful fusion of tender chicken, colorful peppers, and creamy sauce, all tossed with fettuccine. In just a few easy steps, you can create a meal that brightens up any dinner table. Dive into this tasty journey, and let’s make cooking fun and delicious!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 8 oz (225g) fettuccine pasta
– 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced
– 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), thinly sliced
– 1 bell pepper (green), thinly sliced
– 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 teaspoons chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– ½ teaspoon oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup heavy cream
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
– Lime wedges (for serving)
This Chicken Fajita Pasta recipe is simple and full of flavor. You need just a few ingredients to create a dish that tastes amazing. The combination of chicken, colorful peppers, and creamy sauce makes each bite special.
You use fettuccine pasta as the base. The pasta holds the sauce well. The chicken brings protein, while the bell peppers add a sweet crunch. The red onion and garlic give a great depth of flavor.
Spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika give the dish a warm kick. You can adjust these spices to fit your taste. The heavy cream and Parmesan cheese make the sauce rich and creamy, adding a luxurious touch.
This dish is not only tasty but also filling. You can serve it with lime wedges and fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness. It’s a complete meal that everyone will love. Enjoy making this delightful dish with the full recipe provided!
Nutritional Information
– Calories: Approximately 650 per serving
– Carbohydrates: 70g
– Fats: 30g
– Proteins: 30g
This Chicken Fajita Pasta is a great way to enjoy a hearty meal with a tasty twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
First, boil water in a large pot. Add salt to the water to enhance the flavor. Cook the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. You want it al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Sautéing the Chicken
Next, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the sliced chicken breast with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, until it is no longer pink. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Cooking Vegetables
In that same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers and red onion. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they become tender and slightly caramelized. This step brings out their natural sweetness. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute to release its lovely aroma.
Combining Ingredients
Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over everything. Stir well until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Mixing Pasta
Take the cooked fettuccine pasta and toss it into the skillet. Gently mix everything together to coat the pasta with the rich sauce and ingredients. Ensure every strand is covered with that delicious sauce.
Serving the Dish
To serve, plate the Chicken Fajita Pasta warm. Garnish it with chopped fresh cilantro for a pop of color. Add a lime wedge on the side for a zesty touch. Enjoy this tasty and simple dish that brings joy to any meal! For the full recipe, check out the details above.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Chicken
To make the chicken juicy, slice it thinly. This helps it cook quickly and evenly. I like to season it with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano. These spices add great flavor. Heat olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken until it turns golden and is no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. This ensures it stays tender.
Making Creamy Sauce
For a smooth sauce, use heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. When you add the cream, turn the heat down to low. This helps avoid curdling. Stir well to mix everything. Keep stirring as the cheese melts. If you see the sauce getting too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it. This keeps the sauce silky and rich.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken Fajita Pasta warm. I like to pair it with a fresh salad or warm bread. For toppings, try chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime. These add brightness to the dish. You can also serve it with a side of your favorite veggies. This makes a complete meal that feels special. For the full recipe, check out the link to make this easy dish at home.
Variations
Vegetable Additions
You can easily boost the veggie factor in your Chicken Fajita Pasta. Adding zucchini or corn gives great texture. Slice zucchini into thin rounds and toss them in while cooking the peppers. Corn adds sweetness and crunch. Use fresh or frozen corn for this dish. You can also try adding mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients. Just remember to adjust cooking time for each vegetable to keep them tender.
Spice Level Adjustments
Want more heat? You can add extra chili powder or even cayenne pepper. For a milder taste, skip the chili powder or use smoked paprika instead. You can also add a dash of hot sauce at the end. If your family prefers less spice, try adding more cream to balance the heat. Taste as you go to find the perfect mix for you.
Protein Alternatives
This recipe is flexible with proteins. If you want shrimp, cook them just until they turn pink. For beef, use thinly sliced flank steak and cook it until it’s browned. Tofu is a great plant-based option too. Just make sure to press and cube the tofu before frying. These swaps keep the dish exciting while catering to different diets. Check out the Full Recipe for more ideas!
Storage Info
Reheating Instructions
To reheat Chicken Fajita Pasta, use a skillet. Heat it over medium-low heat. Add a splash of cream or broth to keep it moist. Stir gently until warm. This method keeps the pasta creamy and tasty.
Freezing Tips
To freeze Chicken Fajita Pasta, let it cool completely first. Place it in an airtight container. Label it with the date. It can stay in the freezer for up to three months. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight. Reheat as explained above.
Shelf Life
Chicken Fajita Pasta lasts about three to four days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. If you see any signs of spoilage, discard it. Always check for off smells or changes in texture.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, you can use many pasta types! Fettuccine works well, but you can try:
– Penne
– Bowtie
– Spaghetti
– Linguine
Each pasta type gives a unique bite. Just adjust cooking time as needed. For example, penne might need a bit longer. Experiment and find your favorite!
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Chicken Fajita Pasta is great for meal prep. Here’s how:
– Cook a large batch and store in airtight containers.
– Keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days.
– For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to eat, just reheat in the microwave or on the stove. It tastes great even after freezing!
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, you can make this dish dairy-free! Here are some options:
– Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
– Substitute nutritional yeast for Parmesan cheese.
– Almond or soy milk can also work well in the sauce.
These swaps keep the creamy texture while cutting out dairy. Your taste buds won’t miss a thing!
What can I serve with Chicken Fajita Pasta?
Pair your pasta with yummy sides and drinks! Here are some ideas:
– Fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette
– Garlic bread for a crunchy side
– Mexican corn on the cob
– A refreshing margarita or iced tea
These sides complement the flavors and make your meal even better! Enjoy your feast!
In this blog post, I covered how to make Chicken Fajita Pasta from start to finish. We looked at the ingredients needed, cooking methods, and tasty variations. Choosing fresh chicken and veggies makes a big difference. Always remember to adjust seasonings to suit your taste. This dish is easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep. Enjoy making it your own by trying different proteins or spices. With the right tips, you’ll have a delicious meal every time.
