Creamy Chicken Fajita Pasta – A 20-Minute Weeknight Favorite

When it comes to fast, comforting, and flavor-packed dinners, few meals compete with Creamy Chicken Fajita Pasta. This irresistible fusion dish combines the smoky, bold flavors of classic fajitas with the rich, velvety texture of a creamy pasta, creating a weeknight meal that feels indulgent while still being incredibly easy to make.

Perfect for busy evenings, this creamy chicken fajita pasta recipe comes together in just 20 minutes using simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients. It’s a one-pan wonder loaded with tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, onions, and a luscious creamy sauce that clings beautifully to every strand of pasta.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving a cozy dinner with a spicy twist, this easy weeknight pasta dinner delivers restaurant-quality flavor without the stress or long cooking time.

Why This Creamy Chicken Fajita Pasta Is So Popular

This dish has quickly become a modern comfort food favorite because it blends two beloved classics: fajitas and creamy pasta. The smoky spices, juicy chicken, and sautéed peppers bring bold Tex-Mex flair, while the creamy sauce balances everything with richness and depth.

Another reason people love this quick chicken fajita pasta is its versatility. You can easily customize the spice level, swap the pasta shape, or adjust the creaminess depending on your taste preferences.

Most importantly, it’s fast. In just 20 minutes, you can have a satisfying homemade dinner on the table that tastes like it took hours to prepare.

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine)
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons fajita seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 3/4 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
• Lime wedges for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sliced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and half of the fajita seasoning, and cook for 5–6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened but still vibrant.
5. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Sprinkle in the remaining fajita seasoning, smoked paprika, and chili powder, stirring well to coat the vegetables.
7. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine and deglaze the pan.
8. Let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened and creamy.
9. Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet, tossing gently to coat everything evenly in the sauce.
10. Stir in the shredded cheese and Parmesan until melted and silky.
11. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lime juice if desired.
12. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and serve immediately while warm and creamy.

Creamy Chicken Fajita Pasta

A quick and creamy 20-minute pasta loaded with seasoned chicken, bell peppers, and a rich fajita-inspired sauce.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American, Autumn

Calories: 520

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta
• 2 chicken breasts sliced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 onion sliced
• 1 red bell pepper sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper sliced
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 2 tsp fajita seasoning
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 0.5 cup chicken broth
• 0.75 cup shredded cheese
• 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese grated

Equipment

• Large pot
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Colander

Method

 

1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain.
2. Heat oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Cook seasoned chicken until golden and fully cooked, then remove.
4. Sauté onions and bell peppers until slightly tender.
5. Add garlic and spices, cooking until fragrant.
6. Pour in chicken broth and cream, then simmer until slightly thickened.
7. Return chicken and pasta to the skillet and toss to coat.
8. Stir in cheeses until melted and creamy, then serve warm.

Notes

Add a splash of pasta water when reheating to maintain the creamy texture.

The Secret to Ultra-Creamy Fajita Pasta

The key to achieving that luxurious creamy texture lies in balancing the cream, cheese, and pasta water. Adding a splash of reserved pasta water to the sauce can help emulsify the ingredients and create a smoother, silkier finish.

Using freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded cheese also makes a noticeable difference, as it melts more evenly and prevents a grainy sauce.

Cooking the pasta al dente is equally important. Slightly firm pasta holds up better when mixed into the creamy sauce and absorbs the flavors without becoming mushy.

Flavor Profile: Smoky, Creamy, and Bold

This one pot creamy chicken pasta is a beautiful harmony of flavors. The fajita seasoning brings smokiness and warmth, the peppers add sweetness and crunch, and the cream softens the spice into a comforting, well-rounded sauce.

The lime juice (optional but highly recommended) adds a subtle brightness that cuts through the richness and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Customization and Variations

Spicy Creamy Chicken Fajita Pasta

Add diced jalapeños, extra chili powder, or a dash of hot sauce for a bold, spicy kick that heat lovers will appreciate.

Lighter Version

Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or evaporated milk for a lighter but still creamy texture without sacrificing flavor.

One-Pot Method

To make this a true one pot creamy chicken pasta, cook the pasta directly in the sauce using extra broth and cream. This method enhances flavor and reduces cleanup.

Protein Swaps

You can easily substitute chicken with shrimp, steak strips, or even tofu for a different twist while keeping the fajita-inspired flavor profile.

Veggie-Loaded Option

Add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrients and texture while maintaining the creamy consistency of the sauce.

Best Pasta Shapes for This Recipe

Short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, and rotini work exceptionally well because they trap the creamy fajita sauce inside their ridges. However, long pasta like fettuccine or linguine also creates a luxurious, restaurant-style presentation.

Whole wheat pasta can be used for added fiber, while gluten-free pasta works perfectly as long as it’s cooked just until al dente.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Chicken Fajita Pasta is hearty enough to stand alone as a complete meal, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate your dinner experience.

Serve it with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a balanced plate. A squeeze of fresh lime and a sprinkle of cilantro just before serving enhances the Tex-Mex flavor and adds freshness.

For gatherings, this pasta also works beautifully as a crowd-pleasing main dish because it stays creamy and flavorful even after resting for a few minutes.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce and restore its creamy texture.

Reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop or in short intervals in the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating.

Avoid freezing if possible, as cream-based sauces can sometimes change texture after thawing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the chicken is one of the most common issues. Cook just until done to keep it juicy and tender.

Another mistake is boiling the sauce too aggressively. A gentle simmer is enough to thicken the sauce while keeping it smooth and creamy.

Using too much seasoning at once can overpower the dish. Start moderate and adjust gradually for the perfect balance of smoky and creamy flavors.

Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Busy Weeknights

Life gets hectic, and having a reliable 20-minute dinner recipe can make all the difference. This creamy chicken fajita pasta recipe requires minimal prep, simple ingredients, and only one main pan for the sauce.

It’s family-friendly, customizable, and packed with comforting flavors that appeal to both kids and adults. Plus, the colorful bell peppers make the dish visually vibrant and nutritionally balanced.

From its bold fajita-inspired seasoning to its silky, cheesy sauce, this dish proves that quick meals don’t have to be boring. Creamy Chicken Fajita Pasta is the ultimate weeknight hero — fast, flavorful, and guaranteed to become a repeat favorite in your dinner rotation.