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Fajita chicken pasta brings together smoky Tex-Mex flavors and the comfort of creamy pasta into one bold weeknight meal. A medley of juicy chicken, sweet bell pepper, and rich tomato sauce merges with melted cheese for a dish my family devours every time I make it. The best part is that it only takes about half an hour from start to steaming forkful.
I started making this when my teens wanted restaurant-style fajitas at home and now it is in our monthly dinner rotation. The kitchen always smells amazing as the onions sauté with seasoning.
Ingredients
- Fusilli pasta: this shape’s twists hold onto the sauce beautifully look for a bronze-cut variety if available as it clings better to sauces
- Diced chicken: for juicy protein use boneless thighs for extra flavor or breast for leaner results
- Red bell pepper: adds sweetness and color always select peppers that feel firm without wrinkles
- Onion: brings out natural sweetness slice thinly so it softens well
- Fajita seasoning: classic Tex-Mex boldness taste your blend to make sure it is fresh and not overly salty
- Tomato sauce: creates a rich base for the pasta choose a brand with simple, whole ingredients and no added sugar
- Shredded cheese: melts into the sauce for gooey comfort fresh grate your own for best melt and flavor
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta:
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil add plenty of salt then cook fusilli until al dente according to package directions about ten minutes drain but do not rinse to keep the starches that help sauce stick
- Prepare the Protein and Vegetables:
- While pasta cooks dice chicken into bite-sized pieces pat dry with paper towels heat a large skillet over medium-high add a drizzle of oil then add chicken cook undisturbed for three to four minutes so it browns turn and cook another two minutes remove and set aside if you want deep flavor cook in batches
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Lower the heat to medium add sliced onion and peppers to the skillet stir frequently allowing them to soften for four to five minutes until onions go translucent and peppers are tender sprinkle fajita seasoning directly onto the veggies and stir well so the spices bloom in the warm oil
- Bring It All Together:
- Return chicken to skillet with veggies pour in tomato sauce stir everything to combine then let the mixture simmer on low for four to five minutes this blends the flavors while thickening the sauce
- Finish and Serve:
- Add cooked pasta into the skillet gently toss everything so fusilli is coated evenly sprinkle shredded cheese over top and cover for one to two minutes until it melts scoop onto plates and enjoy while hot
The way the cheese melts into the spiced sauce has always been my favorite part ever since my youngest started sneaking into the kitchen to snitch extra cheese the dish feels extra special to me
Storage Tips
Let leftovers cool before packing into airtight containers store in the fridge for up to three days. If the pasta thickens in the fridge add a splash of water or milk when reheating for creamy results. I sometimes freeze single lunch portions wrapped in foil for quick weekday meals but leave off the cheese then add fresh when reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
Substitute rotini or penne if you do not have fusilli both shapes grab sauce well. Use any colored bell pepper or try poblanos for a mild twist. Swap dairy cheese for your favorite vegan shreds if needed. If you want extra veggies toss in spinach or mushrooms during the sauté step.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta with a wedge of lime to brighten the flavors. It pairs well with simple green salads or charred corn on the cob. For Tex-Mex flair sprinkle cilantro or fresh jalapeño on top just before serving.
This fusion pasta brings the best of pasta night and Tex-Mex favorites to your table. Enjoy how fast it comes together and the big, crowd-pleasing flavor in every bite.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What kind of pasta works best?
Fusilli is ideal for holding onto the sauce, but penne or rotini work as alternatives.
- → Can I use a different protein?
Yes, swap chicken with turkey, tofu, or shrimp to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
- → How spicy is this dish?
The spice level depends on your fajita seasoning. You can adjust for milder or bolder flavors.
- → Is it possible to make this dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free cheese option or simply omit cheese for a lighter version.
- → What can I serve alongside?
Pair with a fresh green salad, cilantro-lime rice, or warm tortillas for a complete meal.