Easy Chicken Fajita Pasta: Quick & Flavorful Dinner

Introduction

Looking for a fast, colorful, and satisfying meal? This Easy Chicken Fajita Pasta combines tender chicken, bell peppers, onions, and pasta in a savory, fajita-inspired skillet dish. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, family meals, or meal prep.

What makes this recipe special is its simplicity and bold flavors. Instead of separate components, chicken, vegetables, and pasta cook together in a single pan, allowing the spices and juices to meld beautifully. The combination of juicy chicken, vibrant peppers, and creamy pasta creates a balanced, delicious, and comforting dinner.

This dish is highly versatile. Adjust the spice level, swap vegetables, or add your favorite toppings. With minimal prep and cleanup, this recipe is a go-to for quick, tasty, and satisfying weeknight dinners.

A Quick Look at Its Origins

Fajitas are a Tex-Mex classic traditionally served as sizzling strips of marinated meat with peppers and onions. Transforming fajitas into a pasta dish is a modern twist that keeps all the classic flavors while simplifying preparation. Using pasta provides a hearty, filling base, while the sautéed chicken and peppers retain the essence of traditional fajitas.

Fun fact: Cooking the chicken and vegetables in a skillet ensures the juices and spices coat every ingredient, producing a rich, cohesive flavor without extra sauces. One-pan pasta dishes like this are designed for efficiency, taste, and convenience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pan Convenience: Minimal cleanup and quick preparation.
Bold Fajita Flavors: Savory spices and tender chicken.
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
Family-Friendly: Colorful, flavorful, and mild enough for all ages.
Balanced Meal: Protein, vegetables, and pasta in one dish.
Customizable: Adjust vegetables, spice levels, or toppings.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve as is or with tortillas, salad, or avocado slices.

Ingredients & Equipment

For the Chicken Fajita Pasta

400 g (14 oz) pasta of choice (penne, rotini, or fettuccine)
400 g (14 oz) boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced
2–3 bell peppers (any color), sliced
1 medium onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 cup chicken or vegetable broth (240 ml)
½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella)
Optional garnish: fresh cilantro, lime wedges, or avocado slices

Equipment

Large skillet or sauté pan with lid
Wooden spoon or spatula
Knife and cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons

Pro Tips

Slice chicken thinly for faster cooking and tenderness.
Cook chicken first to develop flavor before adding vegetables.
Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Adjust spice levels to suit your family’s preference.
Add a splash of cream or extra cheese for a richer, creamier pasta.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients

Slice chicken against the grain into thin strips. Slice bell peppers and onion into strips and mince garlic. Having all ingredients ready ensures quick, even cooking.

2. Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken slices and cook 4–5 minutes until lightly browned and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté Vegetables

In the same skillet, add sliced onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté 3–4 minutes until vegetables are slightly softened and fragrant.

4. Add Pasta and Broth

Add uncooked pasta and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir well, ensuring pasta is mostly submerged in liquid. Cover and simmer 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and broth is mostly absorbed.

5. Combine Chicken and Seasonings

Return cooked chicken to the skillet. Sprinkle in chili powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir to evenly coat chicken, vegetables, and pasta in the spices.

6. Add Cheese and Finish

Sprinkle shredded cheese over the skillet. Stir until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.

7. Serve and Garnish

Serve hot directly from the skillet. Garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, or avocado slices. Pair with a side salad or warm tortillas if desired.

Expert Tips & Troubleshooting

Chicken Dry: Avoid overcooking; remove from heat once no longer pink.
Vegetables Too Soft: Add them after chicken is partially cooked for more crunch.
Pasta Undercooked: Ensure enough broth is added and stir occasionally.
Flavor Too Mild: Increase spices or add a dash of hot sauce.
Cheese Not Melting Smoothly: Stir continuously off heat or cover briefly to melt.

Variations & Customizations

Extra Vegetables: Add zucchini, mushrooms, spinach, or corn.
Protein Options: Substitute chicken with turkey, shrimp, or plant-based protein.
Creamy Twist: Add a splash of cream or cream cheese for extra richness.
Spicy Version: Include fresh jalapeños or cayenne pepper for heat.
Herb Variation: Garnish with parsley, cilantro, or chives for freshness.
Low-Carb Option: Serve without pasta over cauliflower rice.

Serving & Presentation Ideas

Serve this Easy Chicken Fajita Pasta directly from the skillet for a rustic, homey presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs, lime wedges, or avocado slices to enhance color and flavor. Pair with a side salad, garlic bread, or tortillas for a complete and satisfying meal.

The combination of tender chicken, colorful peppers, and creamy pasta makes this dish visually appealing and flavorful, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 2–3 days.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Make-Ahead: Slice vegetables and chicken in advance to streamline cooking.
Freezing: This dish freezes well for up to 1 month; thaw overnight and reheat gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes, substitute chicken with tofu, tempeh, or extra vegetables.

Q: Can I use frozen bell peppers?
A: Yes, thaw and drain excess moisture before cooking.

Q: Can I make it spicier?
A: Add crushed red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or cayenne powder.

Q: Can I prepare this for meal prep?
A: Absolutely. Portion into containers with pasta or rice for easy weekday meals.

Conclusion

This Easy Chicken Fajita Pasta is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal perfect for busy nights. Tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and creamy pasta create a balanced, delicious, and visually appealing dinner that’s simple to make and loved by all.

Try it tonight for a fast, tasty, and family-friendly meal that combines bold fajita flavors with comforting pasta in one satisfying skillet.

Easy Chicken Fajita Pasta Recipe