Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta: One-Pot Easy Meal 🌶️🍝🔥
1. Introduction
Looking for a quick, flavorful, and easy dinner recipe? The ground chicken fajita pasta recipe combines the zest of fajitas with the comfort of pasta in a convenient one-pot meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this simple pasta dish is packed with seasoned ground chicken, colorful bell peppers, and a delicious blend of spices—all cooked together in a single pot. Not only does this streamline your cooking process, but it also minimizes cleanup, making it a true easy chicken recipe for busy families and home cooks alike.
2. Ingredients for Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli recommended)
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Juice of 1 lime
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta
3.1. Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients and chopping the bell peppers, onion, and garlic. This prep work ensures a smooth cooking process.
3.2. Cook the Ground Chicken and Vegetables
In a large skillet or pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon. Add diced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic, sautéing until vegetables soften, about 5 minutes.
3.3. Add the Spices and Tomatoes
Stir in chili powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
3.4. Cook the Pasta
Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the dry pasta. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened slightly.
3.5. Finish and Serve
Remove from heat. Stir in lime juice and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with your favorite toppings or a side salad. For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream on top.
4. Storage Tips for Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or water and microwave or warm on the stovetop until heated through. This healthy easy broccoli pasta is perfect for prepping ahead or enjoying as a quick lunch the next day.
5. Serving Suggestions for Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta
This flavorful pasta pairs well with fresh salsa, a side of creamy tortellini, or a crisp green salad. Add some sliced avocado or hot sauce for extra spice. To explore other chicken-based recipes, visit our chicken recipes section.
6. Tips to Perfect Your One-Pot Easy Meal
- Use a large enough skillet to prevent overcrowding and spillage.
- Adjust spice levels according to your taste by adding more chili powder or cayenne.
- If you prefer a creamier sauce, stir in a spoonful of sour cream or cream cheese during the final step.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground chicken with plant-based protein or add extra vegetables.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta
Q1: Can I make the ground chicken fajita pasta ahead of time?
Yes, this one-pot easy meal can be prepared in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and reheat with a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture.
Q2: Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Absolutely! Its simple ingredients and straightforward cooking method make it ideal for meal prep. Portion leftovers into containers, refrigerate, and enjoy throughout the week.
Q3: Can I customize this pasta with different vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add your favorite vegetables like zucchini, corn, or mushrooms to enhance the flavor and nutrition of this simple pasta.
8. External Resources for Enhancing Your Fajita Pasta Experience
9. Conclusion
The ground chicken fajita pasta recipe offers a fuss-free, flavorful, and nutritious way to enjoy a home-cooked meal in under 30 minutes. Its one-pot approach simplifies cooking while maximizing taste with vibrant spices and fresh ingredients. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or simply someone craving a quick dinner, this easy pasta dish is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try today and elevate your weeknight dinners with a delicious, wholesome recipe that combines convenience and flavor seamlessly.
Print
Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta: One-Pot Easy Meal
Discover the delicious ease of Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta, a quick and flavorful one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with seasoned ground chicken, colorful bell peppers, and a blend of spices, this pasta dinner is both satisfying and simple to prepare. Streamline your cooking with minimal cleanup and enjoy a wholesome, flavorful meal in just under 30 minutes.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli recommended)
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
- Start by gathering all your ingredients and chopping the bell peppers, onion, and garlic. This prep work ensures a smooth cooking process.
- In a large skillet or pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon. Add diced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic, sautéing until vegetables soften, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in chili powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the dry pasta. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Remove from heat. Stir in lime juice and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with your favorite toppings or a side salad.
Notes
- Use a large enough skillet to prevent overcrowding and spillage.
- Adjust spice levels according to your taste by adding more chili powder or cayenne.
- If you prefer a creamier sauce, stir in a spoonful of sour cream or cream cheese during the final step.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground chicken with plant-based protein or add extra vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
- Diet: Gluten-Free (use gluten-free pasta)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 450 Kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg