One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta Recipe

This One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta Recipe is one of those comforting, easy weeknight meals that really hits the spot. I absolutely love how the bold fajita-inspired flavors blend so perfectly with creamy pasta, making it both hearty and fresh at the same time. It’s quick enough for busy evenings but impressive enough to serve family or friends without a fuss.

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how everything cooks beautifully in just one pot — saving me from a mountain of dishes and stress. You’ll find that the combination of tender ground chicken, sautéed peppers, and warm spices really elevates the pasta to a new level, making it a guaranteed new favorite for quick dinners or casual gatherings.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta Recipe plays a special role—fresh veggies for sweetness and texture, spices for that authentic fajita flavor, and creamy touches to bring it all together. Here’s a little tip for picking the freshest bell peppers: look for shiny skins without bruising for the best flavor and crunch.

• Ground lean chicken: I prefer lean for less grease, but you can also use ground turkey.
• Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed; diced small for even cooking.
• Red bell pepper: Brings a subtle sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
• Yellow bell pepper: Pairs perfectly with red to brighten the dish and adds texture.
• Garlic cloves: Minced fresh garlic gives an aromatic punch you can’t beat.
• Chili powder: The star seasoning for that classic fajita flavor.
• Smoked paprika: Adds a smoky warmth that elevates the whole dish.
• Cumin: Brings earthiness and depth to your fajita pasta.
• Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
• Black pepper: Freshly cracked is best for a bit of bite.
• Tomato sauce: Creates a savory base that coats the pasta and meat beautifully.
• Chicken stock: Vital for cooking the pasta in the skillet and adding flavor.
• Dried pasta: I like penne or rotini because they hold sauce well and cook evenly.
• Sour cream: Stirred in last for creaminess and a touch of tang.
• Minced cilantro: Fresh and bright, it complements the spices perfectly.
• Shredded Mexican blend cheese: Melts on top for irresistible gooeyness.

Variations

I love making this recipe my own by tweaking the veggies or adding a little heat. The beauty of this One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta Recipe is how flexible it is — so you can easily adjust it based on what you have or your family’s preferences.

• Spicy Upgrade: I sometimes toss in a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne when we’re craving extra heat.
• Vegetarian Swap: Use plant-based ground “meat” or extra beans and veggies to make it vegetarian-friendly.
• Cheese Variations: Tried it with a sharp cheddar or even a smoky gouda for a fun twist.
• Seasonal Veggies: Swap bell peppers for zucchini or mushrooms in cooler months; it still comes out amazing.

How to Make One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Ground Chicken and Veggies

Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large 12-inch skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the ground chicken along with the diced yellow onion, red and yellow bell peppers, minced garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook, breaking up the chicken, until the meat is fully cooked through and no longer pink, and the veggies begin to soften—about 6-8 minutes. You’ll notice the aroma filling your kitchen—this is when you know you’re onto something delicious!

Step 2: Add the Sauce and Pasta

Next, pour in the tomato sauce, chicken stock, and dried pasta directly into the skillet with the cooked chicken and veggies. Give everything a good stir to combine and evenly distribute the pasta. This is the part where the magic happens — the pasta cooks right in the sauce, soaking up all those fajita flavors. Keep the heat at medium-low and let it simmer gently.

Step 3: Simmer Until Pasta is Tender

Allow the skillet to simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking. If you notice the liquid reduces too much before the pasta is tender, don’t hesitate to add a splash more chicken stock—better to keep things saucy and tense-free! When the pasta is cooked through but the sauce has thickened nicely, you’re ready for the final touches.

Step 4: Stir in Sour Cream and Cilantro

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the sour cream and minced cilantro. This step adds creaminess and a fresh, herbaceous note that balances the spices beautifully. I always double-check the seasoning now and add a pinch more salt or pepper if needed—taste as you go is key here!

Step 5: Add Cheese and Melt

Sprinkle the shredded Mexican blend cheese on top of your pasta concoction. The residual heat should melt the cheese perfectly, creating those irresistible gooey pockets. If you want a golden bubbly top, transfer the skillet to an oven-safe dish and pop it under a broiler for 2-3 minutes—just watch carefully so it doesn’t burn. This finishing touch makes it look restaurant-worthy!

How to Serve One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping this pasta with a sprinkle of extra fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or even a squeeze of fresh lime juice to brighten things up. Sometimes, a handful of sliced green onions or a few avocado slices add a creamy, fresh twist that completes the meal beautifully.

Side Dishes

To keep things casual and complementary, I often serve this with a crisp green salad or some warm, crusty bread to soak up the sauce. A side of roasted or grilled corn also pairs wonderfully, giving a subtle sweetness that balances the spice.

Creative Ways to Present

When hosting, I like to serve this dish in individual shallow bowls garnished with colorful extras to impress guests. Another fun idea is scooping the pasta into baked bell pepper halves for a fiesta-style presentation that’s both pretty and practical.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so it tastes even better the next day. Just give it a good stir before reheating.

Freezing

Freezing works well for this pasta, too! Let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It keeps well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep the texture intact.

Reheating

To reheat, I warm it gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring often and adding a splash of chicken stock or water to bring back creaminess if it looks dry. Microwaving works too—just cover and heat in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta Recipe has become such a go-to in my kitchen because it’s fuss-free, packed with flavor, and always feels a little special. I love sharing it with friends who say it tastes like a restaurant meal but without the hassle. Give it a try—you’ll enjoy how straightforward it is to make and how quickly it becomes a family favorite. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll be in your regular dinner rotation, too!

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