The Perfect Spicy Chicken Fajita Pasta Recipe for Cozy Nights

Crafting a mouthwatering spicy chicken fajita pasta sends my culinary imagination into overdrive.

Sizzling peppers and tender chicken dance together in this incredible dish.

Mexican-inspired flavors burst through every single bite of this incredible meal.

Vibrant colors and bold seasonings create an unexpected twist on traditional pasta recipes.

Creamy sauce mingles with zesty spices, promising a delectable experience for anyone who loves robust flavors.

Each forkful brings a perfect balance of heat and comfort that will leave you craving more.

Dive into this recipe and let your taste buds embark on an unforgettable flavor adventure.

Storing and Reheating Fajita Pasta

• Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cool the dish completely before sealing to prevent condensation and maintain quality.
• Place pasta in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few tablespoons of water or chicken broth to prevent drying. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed.
• Warm pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore moisture and creaminess. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
• Transfer cooled pasta to freezer-safe containers, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating using microwave or stovetop methods.

Pairing Suggestions for Chicken Fajita Pasta

• Pair with Zesty Margarita: Blend tequila, fresh lime juice, and triple sec for a tangy cocktail that complements the spicy chicken fajita pasta's bold flavors.
• Serve with Crisp Mexican Lager: Choose a light, refreshing beer like Corona or Modelo to balance the creamy, spicy pasta and cleanse the palate between bites.
• Match with Bright Citrus Salad: Toss mixed greens with orange segments, avocado, and a light lime vinaigrette to add freshness and cut through the rich, creamy sauce.
• Enhance with Garlic Bread: Prepare toasted French bread rubbed with garlic and butter to soak up the delicious fajita sauce and provide a crunchy texture contrast.

Variations on Spicy Chicken Fajita Pasta

• Vegetarian Veggie Delight: Replace chicken with firm tofu or plant-based chicken alternative, using same seasoning and cooking method for a protein-packed vegetarian version.
• Gluten-Free Friendly: Swap regular fettuccine with gluten-free pasta made from rice, corn, or chickpea flour to accommodate gluten sensitivities while maintaining the recipe's core flavors.
• Low-Carb Zucchini Noodle Option: Substitute pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles for a lighter, lower-carbohydrate alternative that keeps the spicy fajita sauce and vegetable profile intact.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternative in place of cheddar to create a creamy sauce without dairy ingredients.

FAQs

• Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute fettuccine with penne, rigatoni, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just ensure it’s cooked al dente to maintain the right texture.

• Is it possible to make this dish less spicy?

Absolutely! Reduce the amount of fajita seasoning or use a mild version. You can also adjust the heat by choosing less spicy bell peppers.

• What if I don't have heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce might be slightly less creamy. For a lighter option, use low-fat milk and add a bit of cornstarch to thicken.

• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While best served fresh, you can prepare components in advance. Cook the chicken and vegetables separately, and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat and combine with sauce just before serving to maintain the best flavor and texture.

Spicy Chicken Fajita Pasta Zesty Kick

• Easily swap ingredients like protein types, pasta shapes, or cheese varieties to match your taste preferences and pantry availability.
• Combining zesty fajita seasoning, tangy lime juice, and rich cheese creates a mouthwatering meal that delivers complex, bold taste sensations in every bite.
• Minimal cleanup, maximum satisfaction make this recipe perfect for weeknight dinners, feeding hungry families, or impressing casual gatherings with minimal cooking skills required.

Ingredients for Spicy Chicken Fajita Pasta

• Chicken: A protein-packed ingredient that brings bold fajita flavor to the pasta dish.
• Fettuccine: A long, flat pasta that provides a hearty base for the creamy sauce.
• Bell Peppers: Colorful vegetables that add sweetness and crunch to the recipe.
• Onion: A classic flavor enhancer that provides depth to the overall dish.

• Fajita Seasoning: A zesty blend that infuses the chicken with classic Mexican-inspired flavors.
• Salt: A simple seasoning that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• Black Pepper: A classic spice that adds a subtle heat and depth to the recipe.

• Chicken Broth, Heavy Cream: A creamy base that creates a rich and luxurious sauce for the pasta.
• Cheddar Cheese: A sharp cheese that melts beautifully and adds a tangy flavor to the sauce.
• Lime Juice: A bright citrus element that adds a fresh and zesty finish to the dish.

• Olive Oil: A cooking fat that helps sauté the chicken and vegetables.
• Cilantro: A fresh herb that provides a bright, aromatic garnish.

How to Sauté Spicy Chicken Fajita Pasta

Step 1: Marinate Chicken

Slice chicken and coat thoroughly with fajita seasoning.

Let the flavors mingle and develop for 20-120 minutes in the refrigerator.

Step 2: Boil Pasta

Fill a large pot with water and add salt.

Cook fettuccine until perfectly tender and al dente.

Drain pasta while keeping one cup of starchy cooking water aside.

Step 3: Sear Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Cook marinated chicken pieces until golden brown and fully cooked.

Transfer chicken to a separate plate.

Step 4: Soften Vegetables

Use the same skillet to sauté bell peppers and onions.

Cook until vegetables become tender and slightly caramelized, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Create Creamy Sauce

Pour chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet.

Gently simmer the liquid and gradually mix in cheddar cheese until sauce becomes smooth and velvety.

Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Return cooked chicken to the skillet.

Add pasta and toss everything together, ensuring each strand gets coated with the rich, spicy sauce.

Squeeze fresh lime juice and season with salt and pepper.

Step 7: Plate and Garnish

Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top.

Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the vibrant, zesty flavors of this delicious pasta dish.

Tips for Perfectly Spiced Fajita Pasta

• Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow seasoning to penetrate deeply, enhancing overall taste and tenderness.
• Save a cup of pasta water to adjust sauce consistency, helping create a perfectly creamy and silky texture without drying out the dish.
• Sauté bell peppers and onions just until slightly tender to maintain a crisp texture and prevent them from becoming mushy or losing vibrant color.
• Remove skillet from heat when adding cheese to prevent breaking or becoming grainy, ensuring a smooth and velvety sauce.
• Add fresh lime juice at the end to brighten flavors and cut through the richness of the creamy sauce, creating a more dynamic and refreshing taste profile.

Spicy Chicken Fajita Pasta Recipe

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4.9 from 8 reviews

• Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Creamy, zesty spicy chicken fajita pasta brings Mexican-inspired comfort to your dinner table, combining bold southwestern flavors with classic pasta appeal. Sizzling chicken, peppers, and a rich sauce guarantee a delightful meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Proteins:

• 2 chicken breasts, sliced into strips
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Vegetables and Seasonings:

• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 1 tablespoon fajita seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)

Liquids and Pasta:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 8 ounces (226 grams) fettuccine pasta (or your preferred pasta)

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Instructions

1. Infuse sliced chicken with zesty fajita seasoning and salt, allowing flavors to penetrate for 20-30 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate up to 2 hours.
2. Boil salted water in a large pot and cook fettuccine until perfectly al dente. Drain pasta, keeping 1 cup of starchy cooking liquid for potential sauce adjustments.
3. Sear marinated chicken in hot olive oil over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes, ensuring golden brown exterior and thorough internal cooking. Transfer chicken to a separate plate.
4. Using the same skillet, sauté bell peppers and onions for 3-4 minutes until vegetables soften and develop slight caramelization.
5. Pour chicken broth and heavy cream into skillet, creating a rich base. Introduce shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until sauce becomes smooth and velvety. Adjust sauce consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
6. Reunite cooked chicken and pasta with the creamy fajita sauce, gently tossing to ensure complete coating. Brighten flavors with fresh lime juice and season with salt and pepper.
7. Garnish with vibrant chopped cilantro and serve immediately while sauce remains warm and luxurious.

Notes

• Marinate chicken longer for deeper flavor infusion, ideally up to 2 hours in refrigerator for maximum taste impact.
• Use fresh lime juice for bright, zesty notes that cut through the richness of the creamy sauce, enhancing overall dish complexity.
• Choose high-quality sharp cheddar cheese to elevate the sauce’s depth and provide a more robust flavor profile.
• Keep reserved pasta water handy to adjust sauce consistency, preventing potential dryness and ensuring a silky, smooth texture.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (or up to 2 hours)
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Mexican-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 645
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 36 g
• Saturated Fat: 18 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 50 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 34 g
• Cholesterol: 135 mg