One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta

Introduction

One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta is the perfect weeknight dinner that fuses the best of both worlds: the bold, zesty flavors of classic fajitas and the comforting, hearty nature of pasta. With tender ground chicken, bell peppers, onions, and pasta all simmered together in a single pot, this dish delivers layers of flavor while keeping cleanup to a minimum. The smoky spices and creamy finish make it taste like something you’d order at a restaurant, but it’s simple enough to whip up in your own kitchen.

This dish quickly became a go-to in my household for those busy evenings when time is tight, but everyone is craving something delicious. The best part? You only need one pot, so after dinner, you can spend more time with your family or unwind rather than face a sink full of dishes. Plus, it’s versatile—you can add extra veggies, swap in different proteins, or adjust the level of spice to suit your preferences. Serve it with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime to really bring out those fajita flavors.

Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner fix or something that feels like a fun twist on pasta night, One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta is a dish that’s bound to satisfy and become a regular feature in your meal rotation.

Perfect for:

• Quick weeknight dinners
• One-pot meal lovers
• Comfort food enthusiasts
• Families looking for a kid-friendly dish
• Fans of Tex-Mex inspired meals
• Christmas gatherings

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta will become a favorite:

• Quick and Easy: A one-pot meal that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Bold Flavors: Packed with fajita seasoning, the dish offers a delicious combination of smoky, spicy, and savory flavors.
• Minimal Cleanup: With everything cooked in one pot, cleanup is a breeze, saving you time and effort.
• Creamy Texture: The addition of creamy cheese and sauce gives the dish a rich, comforting texture that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
• Healthy and Lean: Ground chicken is a lean protein, making this dish a healthier alternative to other pasta recipes.
• Customizable: Easily adjust the spice level by adding more or less fajita seasoning and fresh chili if desired.
• Kid-Friendly: The flavors are familiar and mild, making it a hit with even the pickiest eaters.
• One-Pot Convenience: No need to boil pasta separately – everything cooks together for a seamless experience.
• Packed with Veggies: Bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes add color, texture, and nutrients to the dish.
• Leftover Friendly: Tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying leftovers.

Preparation Time and Cook Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 500 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbohydrates: 60g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large bell pepper (any color), sliced
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fajita seasoning
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups penne or rotini pasta
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving

Ingredient Highlights

• Ground Chicken: Lean and flavorful, it soaks up the fajita seasoning beautifully.
• Fajita Seasoning: Adds the signature smoky, zesty flavor of classic fajitas.
• Heavy Cream and Cheese: Combine for a rich, creamy texture that complements the spices.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to create One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta:

Sauté the Base

1. Cook the Ground Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Add Vegetables and Garlic: Stir in the sliced bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

Incorporate the Pasta and Liquids

3. Add Seasoning and Broth: Sprinkle the fajita seasoning over the chicken and vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, stirring to combine.
4. Add the Pasta: Stir in the uncooked pasta, ensuring it is submerged in the liquid. Bring to a simmer and cover the pot.
5. Cook Until Tender: Let it cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Finish with Cream and Cheese

6. Add Cream and Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
7. Season and Garnish: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

How to Serve

One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta can be enjoyed in various ways:

• Serve with Fresh Cilantro: Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for added color and a burst of herbal freshness.
• Pair with Sliced Avocado: Add creamy slices of avocado on top for a cool contrast to the spicy flavors.
• Top with Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream balances the heat and adds a creamy richness to the dish.
• Serve with Lime Wedges: Squeeze fresh lime over the pasta to enhance the flavors with a tangy kick.
• Add Crumbled Tortilla Chips: Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips on top for extra crunch and a fun texture.
• Pair with a Simple Salad: A light green salad with a citrus vinaigrette complements the rich pasta and adds freshness.
• Serve with Mexican Rice: Add a side of fluffy Mexican rice for a complete Tex-Mex meal.
• Top with Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese on top for extra melty goodness.
• Serve with Grilled Veggies: Pair with grilled vegetables like peppers and onions for a smoky flavor boost.
• Accompany with a Cold Drink: Serve with a refreshing cold drink like iced tea or a light margarita for a fun pairing.

Additional Tips

• Use Whole Wheat Pasta: For a healthier twist, swap regular pasta with whole wheat pasta for extra fiber.
• Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the chili powder and cumin to suit your heat preference, adding fresh jalapeños for extra spice.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate additional vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or zucchini to boost the dish’s nutrition and texture.
• Use Fresh Lime Juice: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the pasta just before serving for an added burst of freshness and flavor.
• Stir in Cream Cheese: For an extra creamy texture, mix in a little cream cheese or sour cream at the end of cooking.
• Cook in Broth: For a deeper flavor, use chicken broth instead of water to cook the pasta, enhancing the overall taste.
• Top with Fresh Cilantro: Garnish with fresh cilantro just before serving to add brightness and a pop of color.
• Serve with Tortilla Chips: For added crunch, serve the pasta with a side of tortilla chips or crumbled chips on top.

Recipe Variations

Try these 10 variations for One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta:

• Swap Ground Chicken for Ground Turkey: For a leaner option, substitute ground turkey in place of ground chicken.
• Add Bell Peppers and Onions: Boost the fajita flavor by sautéing extra bell peppers and onions along with the chicken.
• Use a Different Pasta Shape: Swap the penne for other pasta shapes like rotini, farfalle, or fusilli to change the texture.
• Make it Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to kick up the heat.
• Use Cauliflower Pasta: For a low-carb version, try using cauliflower-based pasta instead of regular pasta.
• Add Black Beans: Stir in some black beans for extra protein and fiber, making the dish heartier.
• Top with Avocado: Garnish with sliced avocado or guacamole for added creaminess and freshness.
• Include Corn: Add some sweet corn kernels to the mix for a pop of color and sweetness.
• Use Shrimp Instead of Chicken: Swap the ground chicken for shrimp for a seafood twist on this fajita-inspired pasta.
• Make it Dairy-Free: Replace the cheese with a dairy-free version or omit it entirely for a vegan option.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating Tip: Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain creaminess.

Special Equipment

1. Large Pot or Deep Skillet: For cooking the pasta and sauce in one pot.
2. Wooden Spoon: For stirring the ingredients.
3. Chef’s Knife: For chopping vegetables.
4. Cutting Board: For prepping ingredients.
5. Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements.
6. Grater: For shredding cheese.
7. Ladle: For serving portions easily.
8. Spatula: To scrape down the sides of the pot.
9. Serving Bowls: For individual servings.
10. Citrus Juicer: For squeezing fresh lime juice.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use another type of meat?
   Yes, ground turkey or beef works well as a substitute for ground chicken.
2. Can I make this dairy-free?
   Yes, use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives.
3. Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
   Substitute the pasta with gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth is gluten-free.
4. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
   You can, but it’s best served fresh. Reheat gently to avoid overcooked pasta.
5. How can I make it spicier?
   Add extra jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to increase the heat level.
6. What can I serve with this dish?
   A simple side salad, tortilla chips, or garlic bread pairs well.
7. Can I use leftover chicken?
   Yes, add shredded, cooked chicken during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
8. How do I keep the pasta from sticking?
   Stir frequently and ensure there’s enough liquid in the pot.
9. What cheese can I use instead of cheddar?
   Pepper jack, Monterey jack, or a Mexican cheese blend are great alternatives.
10. Can I omit the tomatoes?
    Yes, but you may need to adjust the broth and seasoning for balance.

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Conclusion

One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta is the ultimate combination of Tex-Mex flavors and hearty pasta. With its quick preparation, bold taste, and minimal cleanup, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners when you’re craving something satisfying but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The flavorful fajita seasoning, tender chicken, and pasta come together in one pot for a deliciously unique comfort meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and experience the flavors! Don’t forget to share your creations—snap a photo and tag me on social media. I’d love to see how it turns out! Happy cooking!