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Ready for an easy and tasty meal? One Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta is the answer! This dish combines tender chicken, colorful veggies, and zesty flavors, all cooked in one pot. It’s not just simple; it’s also quick to make and clean up! Whether you’re busy or just want a delightful dinner, this recipe has got you covered. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get started on this flavor-packed journey!

Why I Love This Recipe
- One-Pot Convenience: This dish is a breeze to make since everything cooks in just one pot, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of spices and fresh vegetables creates a vibrant and satisfying dish that’s full of flavor.
- Quick to Prepare: With a total time of only 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal in a hurry.
- Customizable: You can easily modify this dish by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz (225g) penne pasta
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
– Lime wedges (for serving)
Overview of Ingredient Measurements
This recipe serves four people. You will need one pound of chicken. For veggies, use one medium onion and two bell peppers. I like to use one red and one yellow for color. You will also need three cloves of garlic. The spices include one teaspoon of chili powder, one teaspoon of cumin, and half a teaspoon of smoked paprika.
For the pasta, grab eight ounces of penne. You will use four cups of chicken broth to cook the pasta. Add one cup of cherry tomatoes and one cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Finally, garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
Substitutions for Common Ingredients
If you don’t have boneless chicken, you can use thighs instead. They stay juicy. You can swap olive oil with any cooking oil you have. If you don’t have red or yellow bell peppers, green ones work too.
For spices, if you lack smoked paprika, you can skip it or use regular paprika. If you want to make it vegetarian, replace chicken with black beans or tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Feel free to get creative with the cheese, too! Any melty cheese works well.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add 1 pound of sliced chicken breasts. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want it to be browned and cooked through. After cooking, take the chicken out and set it aside. This step brings out the chicken’s flavor and keeps it juicy.
Sautéing the Vegetables
In the same pot, add 1 sliced medium onion and 1 sliced red bell pepper, along with 1 sliced yellow bell pepper. Sauté these veggies for around 3 to 4 minutes. You want them to start softening but still have a little crunch. Next, stir in 3 minced garlic cloves. Cook for another minute until the garlic smells great. This adds a nice aroma and depth to your dish.
Cooking the Pasta
Now it’s time to add 8 ounces of penne pasta and 4 cups of chicken broth to the pot. Stir everything together to combine well. Bring this mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to stop the pasta from sticking. You want the pasta to be al dente, meaning it’s firm but cooked.
Combining Ingredients and Finishing Touches
Once the pasta is cooked, return the chicken to the pot. Also, add 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes. Stir everything together and let it heat for another 2 to 3 minutes. Finally, take the pot off the heat and sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cover the pot for a couple of minutes so the cheese melts. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro, and serve with lime wedges on the side for that extra zing.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken
To get juicy chicken, slice it evenly. This helps it cook at the same rate. Use a hot pot with olive oil to sear the chicken. Season early with salt, pepper, chili powder, and cumin. Cooking for 5-7 minutes gives you a nice brown color and great flavor. Make sure the chicken reaches 165°F for food safety.
Pasta Cooking Tips
For best results, use penne pasta. It holds sauces well. Add the pasta to the pot with chicken broth. Stir often to prevent sticking. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes. This cooks the pasta perfectly while soaking up all those delicious flavors. Check it for doneness a minute or two before the time is up.
Enhancing Flavor Profile
To boost flavor, try adding lime juice. It adds a fresh zing that brightens the dish. Fresh cilantro on top gives a lovely herbal note. If you like heat, add a pinch of cayenne or some jalapeños. Experiment with different spices, like oregano or onion powder, to find your favorite mix.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor of your dish, making it more vibrant and delicious.
- Customize Your Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding a pinch of cayenne can give it an extra kick!
- Perfect Pasta Cooking: To avoid mushy pasta, check it a minute or two before the package instructions suggest, as it will continue to cook slightly after being removed from heat.
- One-Pot Cooking Benefit: This method not only minimizes cleanup but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully as everything cooks together.

Variations
Vegetarian Option
You can make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken. Use 1 can of black beans instead. Rinse and drain the beans before adding them to the pot. Cook the veggies as usual, then add the beans with the pasta. This gives you protein without meat. You’ll still have a hearty and tasty meal.
Different Protein Choices
If you want to switch up the protein, try shrimp or beef. For shrimp, add them in during the last few minutes of cooking. They cook quick and keep their flavor. If using beef, slice it thinly and cook it before the veggies. Ground turkey or sausage also works well! Each option brings a new twist to the dish.
Flavor Swaps and Additions
You can change the flavors easily. Try adding different spices like oregano or taco seasoning. For a kick, include jalapeños or hot sauce. You can also swap out the bell peppers for zucchini or spinach. For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream before serving. Each swap makes the dish unique and fun!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
After you enjoy your One Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta, store leftovers in an airtight container. Let the pasta cool down first. Place it in the fridge. It will last for up to 3 days. If you want it to stay fresh longer, consider freezing it.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, you can use a microwave or a stovetop. If using a microwave, place your pasta in a bowl. Cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. For the stovetop, add a splash of chicken broth to the pot and warm over low heat. Stir until heated through.
Freezing Tips and Duration
If you decide to freeze your pasta, make sure to use a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat as mentioned above. Enjoy your delicious meal even after a while!
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare One Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta in advance. Cook it fully, then let it cool. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
How do I know if the chicken is fully cooked?
To check if the chicken is done, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the chicken. It should be white inside, with no pink.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! You can swap penne for other pasta shapes like fusilli, macaroni, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type. Ensure the pasta cooks until al dente for the best texture.
What can I serve with One Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta?
This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or warm tortillas. You could also serve it with guacamole or salsa for extra flavor. Lime wedges add a nice zing to the meal.
How long does this recipe last in the fridge?
One Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta stays fresh in the fridge for about three to four days. Make sure to store it in a sealed container to keep it safe and tasty. If you notice any strange smells or colors, it’s best to toss it out.
This blog post covered all you need to make One Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta. We looked at ingredients, steps, and helpful tips. I shared ways to customize the dish, including vegetarian options and storage advice.
In the end, this recipe is easy and fun. It brings great flavors without much fuss. Enjoy trying new ideas and making this meal your own! You’ll see how simple cooking can b
One Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta
A delicious and easy one-pot meal featuring chicken, bell peppers, and pasta in a flavorful broth.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
Total Time 30 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 4
Calories 500 kcal
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
- to taste salt and pepper
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- for garnish fresh cilantro, chopped
- for serving lime wedges
In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken and season with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside. In the same pot, add the onion and bell peppers. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add the penne pasta and chicken broth to the pot, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Once the pasta is cooked, return the chicken to the pot along with the halved cherry tomatoes. Stir well and let it heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Remove the pot from heat and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cover for a couple of minutes until the cheese is melted.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.
Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste.
Keyword chicken, fajita, one pot, pasta
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