Creamy Chicken Fajita Pasta is a fusion dish that combines the bold flavors of chicken fajitas with the comforting elements of creamy pasta. It typically features sliced chicken breast, bell peppers, and onions cooked with fajita seasoning, then mixed with pasta in a rich, creamy sauce made from heavy cream and cheese. The result is a deliciously flavorful and hearty dish that brings together the zestiness of fajitas with the smooth, satisfying texture of a creamy pasta.
Ingredients:
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8 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 pound chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
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1 red bell pepper, sliced
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1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
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1 green bell pepper, sliced
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1 medium onion, sliced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon fajita seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 cup chicken broth
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta:
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Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Cook the Chicken:
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In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and season with salt, pepper, and half of the fajita seasoning. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Cook the Vegetables:
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In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Season with the remaining fajita seasoning. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred, about 5-7 minutes.
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Make the Creamy Sauce:
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Reduce the heat to medium. Add the heavy cream and chicken broth to the skillet with the vegetables. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Combine Everything:
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Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth or pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
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Add the Pasta:
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Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly with the creamy fajita sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through.
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Serve:
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Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve immediately. Enjoy your creamy chicken fajita pasta!
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Serving Suggestions:
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This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread. You can also top it with some sliced avocado, a dollop of sour cream, or a squeeze of lime juice for added flavor.