There’s a certain joy that comes from whipping up a comforting meal on a busy weeknight, isn’t there? Picture this: the tantalizing aroma of sautéing onions and garlic fills your kitchen, while vibrant bell peppers mingle with tender ground chicken, creating a symphony of flavors. That’s the magic of this One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta. In just 30 minutes, you can serve up a dish that blends zesty Tex-Mex spices and creamy goodness, all in one pan—perfect for those who crave something homemade yet effortless. Whether you’re exhausted after a long day or simply bored with takeout, this quick dinner solution promises to turn any ordinary evening into a flavorful fiesta. Plus, it’s easily customizable, so you can feel free to make it your own! Let’s dive in and make mealtime memorable!
Why is One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta a Must-Try?
Ease of Cooking: This one-pot wonder simplifies meal prep, reducing the cleanup effort to little more than a single pan.
Flavor Explosion: Packed with vibrant bell peppers, spices, and creamy sour cream, each bite is a fiesta for your taste buds!
Quick & Delicious: In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a satisfying dinner that rivals any takeout option, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable Goodness: Want it spicier? Add jalapeños! Prefer a different protein? Ground turkey works beautifully! The options are endless.
Kid-Friendly Appeal: With its cheesy, savory profile, it’s a surefire hit with the whole family, making mealtimes a breeze.
Transform your weeknight dinners with this delicious dish and maybe explore other delightful one-pot recipes for even more culinary inspiration!
One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta Ingredients
For the Pasta Dish
• Ground Lean Chicken – Primary protein source that can be substituted with ground turkey, beef, or pork.
• Diced Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the overall flavor profile.
• Diced Red & Yellow Bell Peppers – Provide color, sweetness, and a satisfying crunch.
• Minced Garlic – Enhances and elevates the overall flavor of the dish.
• Chili Powder – Adds a warm spice flavor; adjust based on your heat preferences.
• Smoked Paprika – Infuses a subtle smokiness that complements the Tex-Mex theme.
• Ground Cumin – Contributes the earthy flavor typical in Tex-Mex recipes.
• Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings for balancing flavors in the dish.
• Tomato Sauce – Forms the base sauce, providing both acidity and moisture.
• Chicken Stock – Enhances flavor and keeps the pasta moist while cooking.
• Dried Pasta – Acts as the main carbohydrate; any small pasta shape will work well.
• Sour Cream – Adds creaminess and tang; can be swapped with cream cheese or Greek yogurt.
• Minced Cilantro – Brightens the dish with its fresh flavor, optional for those who prefer without cilantro.
• Shredded Mexican Blend Cheese – Offers richness and flavor; easily substitute with your favorite cheese.
Optional Toppings
• Extra Cilantro – Garnish for added freshness and flavor before serving.
• Lime Wedges – A squeeze of lime adds a zesty finish, enhancing the Tex-Mex flair.
This One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta is not only delicious but can be customized to suit your tastes!
How to Make One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta
-
Heat the Oil: In a large high-sided skillet, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. This sets the stage for the flavors to come!
-
Sauté the Chicken and Veggies: Add the ground chicken, diced yellow onion, red and yellow bell peppers, and minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink and the veggies soften, about 5-7 minutes.
-
Combine the Sauces and Pasta: Pour in the tomato sauce, chicken stock, and dried pasta. Stir everything together until well blended, allowing those vibrant flavors to mingle.
-
Simmer to Perfection: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes or until the pasta becomes tender. If it looks a bit dry, don’t hesitate to add a splash more chicken stock!
-
Finish with Creamy Goodness: Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, stir in the sour cream and minced cilantro. Top with shredded cheese, allowing it to melt completely. For a crunchy cheese finish, pop it under the broiler for a minute or two!
Optional: Serve with a squeeze of lime for a refreshing zing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep flavors fresh and prevent spoilage.
Freezer: This pasta dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: Reheat in the stove over low heat or microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of chicken stock if it appears dry when reheating.
Serving Suggestion: Enjoy with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime to brighten up the flavors once reheated!
Make Ahead Options
This One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta is a fantastic dish for meal prep! You can chop your vegetables (bell peppers and onions) and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to ensure they stay fresh and vibrant. Additionally, you can brown the ground chicken and mix it with the spices ahead of time; just refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious pasta, simply combine the sautéed chicken and prepped veggies with the pasta, sauces, and stock, then follow the cooking instructions. This way, you can whip up a comforting, homemade meal with minimal effort, allowing you to savor the flavors without the fuss on busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta
-
Prep Ahead: Organize and chop all ingredients before starting to cook, streamlining your meal prep and saving precious time.
-
Cooking Time: Adjust the simmering time according to your desired pasta texture; taste-test to achieve that perfect al dente bite.
-
Dairy Consideration: If substituting sour cream with Greek yogurt, choose a full-fat variety to prevent curdling and maintain a creamy texture.
-
Storage Savvy: Store leftover One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat gently to keep it creamy and delicious.
-
Flavor Boost: Don’t be afraid to experiment with spices and fresh herbs. Adding fresh lime juice or additional chili powder can really elevate your dish!
One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta Variations
Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine with these tempting twists on this delightful dish!
-
Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or beef for a different flavor profile; vegetarian options like black beans work just as well for a meatless meal.
-
Cheese Choice: Experiment with Monterrey Jack or cheddar cheese instead of the Mexican blend—the gooey, melty goodness will still be divine!
-
Spice It Up: For a kick, include sliced jalapeños or add extra chili powder. A little heat can transform the flavors beautifully.
-
Pasta Variation: Swap regular pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lower-carb option that’s still satisfying and delicious.
-
Herb Enhancements: Stir in fresh basil or oregano for an aromatic lift. These herbs can add a whole new layer of flavor worth trying!
-
Texture Twist: For a crunch, top with tortilla chips or panko breadcrumbs before broiling. They’ll turn your dish into a delightful textural experience.
-
Creamy Alternatives: Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or cream cheese. Both swaps maintain that creamy texture while offering a slight flavor shift.
-
Vegetable Boost: Load up on additional veggies like corn or spinach, adding color and nutrition without sacrificing taste. It’s a wonderful way to enhance the dish’s freshness!
Explore these variations to make this One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta truly your own!
What to Serve with One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta?
Imagine a cozy meal where vibrant flavors and comforting textures come together to create a delightful dining experience.
-
Tangy Lime Wedges: A bright burst of lime juice elevates the Tex-Mex flavors, adding a refreshing zing to each bite.
-
Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette provides a crunchy contrast, refreshing your palate between bites.
-
Crispy Tortilla Chips: Serve these alongside for a crunchy dip option; they add texture and a fun way to savor the saucy pasta!
-
Mexican Street Corn: Sweet corn with a drizzle of lime, cheese, and chili powder makes for a vibrant side, embodying classic Mexican flavors.
-
Creamy Avocado Salad: Sliced avocado, tomatoes, and cilantro add creaminess and a cooling balance that complements the pasta’s warmth.
-
Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc: A refreshing glass of white wine enhances the meal while providing a light and fruity note that pairs beautifully with the dish.
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions for a well-rounded dinner that celebrates flavors and comforts!
One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe bell peppers for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for bell peppers that are firm and shiny, with no blemishes or dark spots all over. Colorful peppers (red, yellow, or orange) generally indicate ripeness and sweetness, while green peppers will be slightly bitter. Pick what appeals to your taste!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
To store your One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta, simply place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It should stay good for up to 3 days. If you plan on enjoying it later, reheating gently will help maintain its creamy texture.
Can I freeze this pasta dish?
Very! To freeze your One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta, let it cool completely first to prevent freezer burn. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, layering it with parchment paper if needed to separate portions. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on low heat with a splash of chicken stock to restore creaminess.
What if my pasta is too dry during cooking?
The more the merrier when it comes to sauce! If you notice the pasta absorbing too much liquid and looking dry while cooking, just add more chicken stock or water, a little at a time, until it reaches the desired texture. Always taste-test too!
Can I modify this dish to be allergy-friendly?
Absolutely! If you have dairy allergies, consider substituting sour cream with coconut yogurt for creaminess. For gluten-free options, simply use a gluten-free pasta. Always check labels for specific dietary needs if you’re cooking for someone with allergies.
What should I do if I don’t have chicken stock?
In a pinch? Water can also work as a substitute for chicken stock, though it may lack the depth of flavor. You can amp it up by adding a bit of salt, herbs, or even a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for extra taste.
One Pot Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta for Effortless Comfort Cooking
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large high-sided skillet, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add the ground chicken, diced yellow onion, red and yellow bell peppers, and minced garlic. Cook until chicken is no longer pink and veggies soften, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in the tomato sauce, chicken stock, and dried pasta. Stir everything together until well blended.
- Bring to a gentle simmer and let cook for about 10 minutes or until pasta is tender.
- Stir in the sour cream and minced cilantro. Top with shredded cheese and melt.
- Serve with a squeeze of lime for a refreshing zing, if desired.