One Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta: Easy 30-Minute Tex-Mex Dinner
Struggling to find quick, healthy meals? This One Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta is fast, flavorful, and made with simple ingredients you already have in your kitchen. It's the perfect recipe for busy weeknights — bold, creamy, and loaded with tender chicken, bell peppers, and pasta, all cooked in a single pot.
No mess. No fuss. Just pure Tex-Mex comfort food in under 30 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This One Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta
- One pot means less cleanup and more convenience
- Packed with protein and vegetables
- Family-friendly and easy to customize
- Ready in 30 minutes or less
- Great for meal prep or leftovers
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons fajita seasoning (or taco seasoning)
- 10 ounces rotini or penne pasta
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup salsa (choose your spice level)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend
- Fresh chopped parsley or cilantro (optional for garnish)
How to Make One Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta
Step-by-step Instructions:
- Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and half the fajita seasoning. Cook until golden and fully cooked, about 5 to 6 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside. - Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add a little more oil if needed. Sauté the bell peppers, onion, and garlic for 4 to 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. - Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked chicken to the pot. Add the remaining fajita seasoning, dry pasta, chicken broth, and salsa. Stir to combine. - Simmer the Pasta
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 12 to 14 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked and most of the liquid has been absorbed. - Make It Creamy
Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. - Serve and Garnish
Garnish with fresh chopped herbs if desired. Serve immediately while hot.
Tips and Variations
- Use rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken to save time
- Try different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for extra flavor
- Add a dash of hot sauce or sliced jalapeños for heat
- Use gluten-free pasta to make the dish gluten-friendly
- Swap the heavy cream for Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative if preferred
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use penne, fusilli, or shells — just adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the pasta type.
Is this dish good for meal prep?
Absolutely. It reheats well and can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, this pasta freezes well. Let it cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth.
What if I don’t have fajita seasoning?
You can make a quick version using chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes. Omit the chicken and add black beans, mushrooms, or extra peppers instead.
Best Side Dishes to Serve With It
- Simple green salad with lime vinaigrette
- Toasted garlic bread
- Roasted corn or corn on the cob
- Fresh fruit or a light citrus dessert
Final Thoughts
This One Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta is the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again. It's perfect for families, beginner cooks, or anyone craving a warm, flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the one-pot method means fewer dishes and more time to enjoy your dinner.