High Protein Chicken Fajita Pasta: One-Pan Family Meal (Print Version)
High Protein Chicken Fajita Pasta is a quick, one-pan family meal. Enjoy flavorful fajita chicken, pasta, and veggies for a satisfying, easy weeknight dinner.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Mexican
# Ingredients:
→ The Hearty Foundation
01 -
1 tbsp olive oil
02 -
1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
03 -
12 oz uncooked penne or rotini pasta
→ Fajita Fiesta Veggies
04 -
1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
05 -
2 bell peppers (e.g., 1 red, 1 green), thinly sliced
06 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
→ Zesty Simmering Sauce
07 -
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
08 -
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
09 -
2 tbsp fajita seasoning blend
10 -
1/2 tsp salt
11 -
1/4 tsp black pepper
→ Creamy Finish & Garnish
12 -
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or Mexican blend cheese
13 -
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
14 -
1 lime, cut into wedges, for serving
# Instructions:
01 -
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces, and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned on all sides. Remove chicken and set aside, leaving any drippings in the pan for your High Protein Chicken Fajita Pasta | One-Pan Family Meal.
02 -
Add 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced, and 2 bell peppers (e.g., 1 red, 1 green), thinly sliced, to the same pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in 3 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
03 -
Return the chicken to the pan. Stir in 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained, 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth, 12 oz uncooked penne or rotini pasta, 2 tbsp fajita seasoning blend, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. This is crucial for your High Protein Chicken Fajita Pasta | One-Pan Family Meal.
04 -
Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Ensure the pasta is cooked through for the best High Protein Chicken Fajita Pasta | One-Pan Family Meal experience.
05 -
Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or Mexican blend cheese until melted and creamy. Let the pasta sit, covered, for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
06 -
Garnish the High Protein Chicken Fajita Pasta | One-Pan Family Meal with 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped. Serve immediately with 1 lime, cut into wedges, for a fresh squeeze over each portion. Enjoy this delicious and easy one-pan meal!
# Notes:
01 -
Feel free to use any color bell peppers you have on hand. For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the fajita seasoning.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
03 -
For a complete meal, serve alongside a simple green salad or some warm tortillas for scooping up the delicious pasta.
04 -
Stirring occasionally during the simmer prevents the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan and ensures even cooking.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large skillet (or Dutch oven)
02 -
Cutting board
03 -
Knife
04 -
Measuring cups
05 -
Measuring spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 800 kcal
Total Fat: 20 g
Total Carbohydrate: 80 g
Protein: 70 g