If you love the bold, zesty flavors of Tex-Mex and crave a comforting pasta dish, this Chicken Fajita Pasta Recipe is about to become your new favorite weeknight miracle. Imagine tender strips of chicken mingling with colorful bell peppers, sweet onions, and a creamy, smoky sauce that clings perfectly to every strand of pasta. It’s a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds, offering vibrant colors and a harmonious blend of spice and creaminess that’s family-friendly and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this dish plays a key role in building up its unforgettable flavor, texture, and color, yet the list remains simple and approachable. Here’s what you need to gather before diving in:
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta: Use your favorite type, such as penne or rotini, that holds sauce beautifully and adds satisfying bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides the perfect base for sautéing your veggies, adding richness without overpowering.
- 1/2 medium onion (sliced or chopped): Adds sweetness and a subtle pungency that balances the dish perfectly.
- 2 bell peppers (assorted colors) (sliced or chopped): Bring vibrant color and a crisp, slightly sweet flavor that’s simply irresistible.
- 1 (10 fluid ounce) can Ro-tel diced tomatoes & green chilies (with juices): Infuses the sauce with just the right kick of spice and a touch of tomato brightness.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Deepens the flavor of the sauce and helps create a luscious consistency.
- 1 (1 ounce) packet Old El Paso Fajita Seasoning (see note): The magic blend of spices that brings authentic fajita flavor and thickens the sauce.
- 1/4 cup cream cheese: Adds creamy, dreamy texture and mellows the spices for a perfectly balanced sauce.
- 1.5 cups cooked chicken (rotisserie works): A convenient and flavorful protein that makes this meal quick and hearty.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that make sure every bite shines.
How to Make Chicken Fajita Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese
Start by softening your cream cheese ahead of time—either let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes or give it about 20 seconds in the microwave. This small step ensures it melts smoothly into the sauce, creating a rich, silky texture that wraps every ingredient in comfort.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large, salted pot of water to a rolling boil, then add your pasta and cook it al dente according to the package directions. Al dente pasta provides the perfect bite and holds up well when tossed in the creamy sauce without becoming mushy.
Step 3: Sauté the Veggies
While your pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onions and bell peppers, stirring frequently for about five minutes until they reach a tender-crisp texture. These sautéed vegetables bring a natural sweetness and a slight crunch that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Turn the heat to medium-low and add the Ro-tel diced tomatoes with their juices, chicken broth, Old El Paso fajita seasoning, and softened cream cheese to the skillet. Stir everything until the cream cheese fully melts and the sauce thickens quickly thanks to the cornstarch in the seasoning packet. This step is where the dish builds its signature flavor and luxurious consistency.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Pasta
Add your pre-cooked chicken to the sauce and let it warm through, allowing all those fajita flavors to infuse the meat. If the sauce becomes too thick while heating, simply thin it out with some reserved hot pasta water before draining your noodles. Toss the drained pasta into the skillet or a large bowl with the sauce, mix thoroughly, then season with salt and pepper to taste before serving immediately.
How to Serve Chicken Fajita Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this dish even more, sprinkle fresh cilantro leaves or finely chopped green onions on top. Adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving can brighten every bite with a zesty, citrusy pop that complements the spices perfectly. A little shredded cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack also works wonders, if you want to amp up the indulgence.
Side Dishes
Chicken Fajita Pasta feels like a meal all on its own, but pairing it with a refreshing side salad with crisp lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and a light lime vinaigrette will add contrast and balance. Warm, crusty bread or garlic bread is also fantastic for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate, making every last bit count.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving this Chicken Fajita Pasta Recipe for a gathering, consider plating it in individual mason jars or colorful bowls to showcase the bright peppers contrasting with the creamy pasta. Garnish each portion with a wedge of lime and a sprinkle of chili flakes for a restaurant-style touch that’s sure to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This hearty pasta holds up really well in the refrigerator. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop further after resting, making reheated portions even more delicious.
Freezing
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it if needed. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. Just be aware the texture of the bell peppers might soften slightly upon thawing.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if necessary. Microwaving works too; just stir frequently to reheat evenly and maintain creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Fresh chicken breasts or thighs work perfectly. Just season and cook them beforehand by grilling, baking, or pan-searing, then cube or shred before adding to your sauce.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or farfalle are ideal because their ridges and curves hold onto the creamy fajita sauce beautifully, making every bite flavorful.
Is there a substitute for the fajita seasoning packet?
You can create your own blend using chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne for spice. Just add a small amount of cornstarch to help thicken the sauce as well.
Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the cream cheese for a dairy-free cream cheese alternative or coconut cream to keep that creamy texture without dairy, and make sure your chicken broth is also dairy-free.
How spicy is this dish?
The heat level is moderate, thanks to the Ro-tel and fajita seasoning, but it can be adjusted by using mild or hot versions of the seasoning or by adding more or less chili powder to suit your taste.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Fajita Pasta Recipe is hands-down one of those meals you’ll want to make again and again. It’s quick, vibrant, and packed with comforting flavors that hit all the right notes. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a delicious dinner to impress friends, this recipe delivers every time. Give it a try and watch it become a go-to favorite in your kitchen!
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Chicken Fajita Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Description
This Chicken Fajita Pasta is a quick and flavorful dish combining tender sautéed bell peppers and onions with a creamy, spicy sauce made from Rotel tomatoes, fajita seasoning, and cream cheese. Tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and juicy cooked chicken, this meal is a delicious fusion of Tex-Mex and comfort food that comes together in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta
Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 medium onion, sliced or chopped
- 2 bell peppers (assorted colors), sliced or chopped
Sauce & Seasoning
- 1 (10 fluid ounce) can Ro-tel diced tomatoes & green chilies with juices
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 (1 ounce) packet Old El Paso Fajita Seasoning
- 1/4 cup cream cheese
Protein
- 1.5 cups cooked chicken (rotisserie works great)
Seasoning
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Soften Cream Cheese: Remove the cream cheese from the fridge at least 30 minutes before starting to let it soften, or microwave for about 20 seconds to speed up the process.
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions and bell peppers, sautéing for about 5 minutes until they are tender-crisp. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking.
- Make Sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low. Add Rotel tomatoes with their juices, chicken broth, fajita seasoning, and softened cream cheese to the skillet. Stir well until the cream cheese melts completely and the sauce thickens, which is aided by the cornstarch in the fajita seasoning.
- Add Chicken and Combine: Stir in the cooked chicken and warm it through. If the sauce becomes too thick, thin it with some reserved hot pasta water. Once heated, add the drained pasta directly into the skillet and toss everything together to coat evenly.
- Season and Serve: Taste the pasta and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Soften the cream cheese beforehand to help it blend smoothly into the sauce.
- The fajita seasoning contains cornstarch which helps thicken the sauce quickly.
- If the sauce looks too thick after adding the chicken, add reserved pasta water gradually until desired consistency is reached.
- You can use any shaped pasta such as penne, rotini, or shells.
- Rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut, but cooked diced chicken breast or thighs can be used instead.
