As the clock ticks down on a busy weeknight, my kitchen transforms into a canvas of colors and aromas, buzzing with energy. Enter the One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta—a dazzling dish that beautifully fuses Tex-Mex flavors with the comfort of pasta, all created in one convenient pot! This recipe is a lifesaver, allowing you to whip up a delightful meal in just 30 minutes, leaving more time for family, laughter, and unwinding together. Imagine tender ground chicken mingling with vibrant peppers and spices, all enveloped in a creamy sauce that even the pickiest eaters will adore. Plus, clean-up is a breeze, making this a true family-friendly favorite. Are you curious yet? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Is This Pasta Recipe a Must-Try?
Ease of Preparation: This One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta comes together effortlessly in one pot, saving you time on both cooking and cleaning.
Kid-Friendly Flavor: Packed with creamy goodness and a touch of spice, even picky eaters will ask for seconds!
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap out the ground chicken for turkey or beef, and use whatever bell peppers you have on hand.
Quick Cooking Time: In just 30 minutes, you can serve a delicious dinner that your entire family will love.
Perfect Weeknight Dinner: Ideal for those busy nights when you crave comfort food without the fuss—just like my Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta or Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Baked Potatoes.
This recipe is sure to become a staple in your home!
One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta Ingredients
Unlock the secret to vibrant flavors in just one pot!
For the Pasta
- Ground Lean Chicken – The main protein source; substitute with ground turkey, beef, or pork for variation.
- Dried Pasta – Short pasta shapes work best; adjust cooking times if using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
For the Vegetables
- Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness; use red onion for a milder taste.
- Red Bell Pepper – Provides sweetness and color; swap with green bell pepper for a sharper bite.
- Yellow Bell Pepper – Similar to red, it contributes sweetness; you can use just one type if preferred.
- Garlic – Enhances flavor; fresh garlic is recommended, but garlic powder can substitute in a pinch.
For the Seasoning
- Chili Powder – Adds heat and flavor complexity; adjust according to your spice preference.
- Smoked Paprika – Offers a smoky undertone; can be substituted with regular paprika for less smokiness.
- Cumin – Essential for that Tex-Mex flavor; contributes earthy notes.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances overall flavor; regular salt works too.
- Black Pepper – Adds mild heat; use freshly ground for the best results.
For the Sauce
- Tomato Sauce – Forms the base of the sauce; diced tomatoes can create a chunkier texture.
- Chicken Stock – Adds depth and moisture during cooking; vegetable stock is a great vegetarian option.
For the Creamy Finish
- Sour Cream – Provides creaminess and tang; Greek yogurt can be a healthier alternative.
- Minced Cilantro – Offers freshness and herbaceous notes; substitute with parsley if preferred.
- Shredded Mexican Blend Cheese – Adds creaminess and flavor; other melting cheeses like cheddar can work too.
Let’s get cooking and create a delightful, family-friendly One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta that’s sure to become a weeknight hero!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta
Step 1: Prepare the Skillet
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large high-sided skillet over medium heat. Swirl the oil around to coat the bottom of the skillet. You want the oil to shimmer slightly, indicating it’s hot enough to sauté.
Step 2: Sauté the Ingredients
Add the ground chicken, diced onion, red and yellow bell peppers, and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir well, then season with chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 5-6 minutes until the chicken is no longer pink, and the vegetables are slightly softened, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Combine the Sauce
Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken stock, stirring to combine everything evenly. Then, add the dried pasta to the skillet. Ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid, promoting even cooking, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
Step 4: Simmer until Cooked
Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta is done when the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened. If it looks too dry, add a splash more chicken stock to achieve that perfect creaminess.
Step 5: Finish with Creaminess
Once the pasta is cooked, remove the skillet from heat and stir in the sour cream and minced cilantro until well combined. This will add a luscious creaminess to the dish while providing refreshing notes from the cilantro.
Step 6: Add the Cheese
Top the One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta with shredded Mexican blend cheese. The residual heat will allow the cheese to melt beautifully into the dish. For an extra touch, consider broiling it for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden, just be sure to keep a close watch so it doesn’t burn.
How to Store and Freeze One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock to keep it creamy.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta without the cheese for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove, stirring in fresh cheese.
Reheating: When reheating from the fridge or freezer, add a bit of stock or water to prevent sticking and restore creaminess.
Make-Ahead Tips: If preparing in advance, consider freezing just the sauce component and cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve.
Expert Tips for One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta
-
Prep Ingredients Ahead: Chopping veggies and measuring spices in advance makes the cooking process smoother, especially during busy weeknights.
-
Watch the Heat: When sautéing the chicken and vegetables, avoid high heat; medium works best to prevent burning while ensuring everything cooks evenly.
-
Adjust the Spice: Not everyone enjoys heat! Start with less chili powder if you’re feeding young taste buds or folks sensitive to spice. You can always add more later!
-
Perfect Pasta Texture: To avoid mushy pasta, make sure to check for doneness a minute or two before the package cooking time suggests, and adjust the sauce as needed for creaminess.
-
Store with Care: If you have leftovers, cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. You can store One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta in the fridge for up to 3 days; just add a splash of stock when reheating to keep it creamy.
-
Customize Your Dish: Feel free to swap out the ground chicken for another protein like turkey or beef, or try it with a plant-based meat for a different twist on this One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta!
One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta Variations
Feel free to get creative with your dish and make it your own!
- Colorful Peppers: Use orange and green bell peppers to brighten the dish and add a different flavor twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños for an extra layer of heat that will excite the taste buds.
- Dairy-Free: Replace sour cream with cashew cream or coconut yogurt to keep the creaminess while avoiding dairy.
- Vegetarian Delight: Swap out chicken for black beans or chickpeas, adding plant-based protein to this hearty meal.
- Mexican Flare: Include lime juice and zest to elevate flavors and add a tangy brightness to each bite.
- Pasta Shapes: Experiment with different pasta shapes like penne or fusilli; just check cooking times for best results.
- Herb Boost: Sprinkle fresh parsley or green onions on top before serving for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
- Cheesy Goodness: Swap Mexican blend cheese with pepper jack for a spicy, creamy twist that will have everyone coming back for more.
The beauty of the One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta lies not just in its incredible taste, but in how you can customize it! For more ideas, consider trying out my Butter Chicken Pasta or Ground Beef Pasta for a new spin on your weeknight dinner rotation. Enjoy the exploration!
Make Ahead Options
These One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta are fantastic for busy weeknights or meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop vegetables (onions and bell peppers) and even cook the ground chicken up to 3 days in advance; store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you’d like to prepare the entire dish, you can make the sauce component ahead, refrigerate it for up to 24 hours, and then simply cook the pasta when you’re ready to serve. To maintain quality, store the sour cream and cheese separately and stir them in just before serving. This way, you’ll have a hearty, flavorful meal with minimal effort!
What to Serve with One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta
As you savor every bite of this Tex-Mex delight, the right side dishes can elevate your meal into an unforgettable family feast.
-
Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery flavor of garlic bread perfectly complements the creamy pasta, providing a satisfying crunch that balances the dish’s richness.
-
Fresh Avocado Salad: A vibrant salad of avocado, tomatoes, and lime adds a refreshing contrast, enhancing the meal with creamy and tangy notes.
-
Mexican Street Corn: Sweet corn slathered in creamy Mexican sauce offers a deliciously sweet side that pairs well with the spicy undertones of the pasta.
-
Tortilla Chips with Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips serve as an irresistible snack or side, bringing an extra crunch, while salsa introduces zesty flavors that make every bite exciting.
-
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted veggies introduces earthy flavors and delightful textures, perfectly complementing the richness of the One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta.
-
Lime Wedges: Serve lime wedges on the side for a zesty kick. A squeeze of lime brightens up the pasta, enhancing its fresh flavors.
-
Margaritas: Celebrate your dinner with a refreshing margarita. Its citrusy zing pairs beautifully with the spices of your pasta, rounding off a delightful meal.
-
Chocolate Flan: For a sweet finish, indulge in chocolate flan—its velvety texture contrasts beautifully with the savory flavors, creating a perfect ending to your feast.
Let these pairings inspire a wonderful dining experience, creating cherished memories around your table!
Advertisement
One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta Recipe FAQs
What type of ground chicken should I use?
Absolutely! I recommend using lean ground chicken to keep this One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta lighter while still packing in the flavor. However, you can also use ground turkey, beef, or even pork, depending on your preference.
How do I know if my bell peppers are ripe?
Very! Look for bell peppers that are firm with smooth, shiny skin. Avoid those with dark spots or wrinkles as they might be past their prime. The more vibrant the color, the sweeter the taste!
How should I store leftovers?
If you have any One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta leftovers, cool them completely before transferring to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock to maintain creaminess.
Can I freeze this dish, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, I recommend prepping the One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta without cheese for optimal results. Allow it to cool, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm it on the stove, stirring in fresh cheese to add that creamy texture back.
What if my pasta turns out mushy?
Oh no! To avoid mushy pasta, make sure you check it a minute or two before the package cooking time says it’s done. If you end up with overcooked pasta, it can help to add a bit of chicken stock while reheating to restore that creaminess!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
For sure! This recipe is versatile; you can swap ground chicken with a plant-based alternative to cater to vegetarian or vegan diets. Also, if you want to avoid dairy, you can substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt option. Just ensure all ingredients suit everyone’s taste preferences and any allergies.
One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta: Quick Comfort in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large high-sided skillet over medium heat. Swirl the oil around to coat the bottom of the skillet.
- Add the ground chicken, diced onion, red and yellow bell peppers, and minced garlic. Stir well, then season with chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 5-6 minutes until the chicken is no longer pink and the vegetables are slightly softened.
- Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken stock, stirring to combine. Add the dried pasta to the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cover and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until pasta is al dente and sauce has thickened.
- Stir in the sour cream and minced cilantro until well combined.
- Top with shredded Mexican blend cheese and broil for 2-3 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
