Chicken Fajita Mac and Cheese

Chicken Fajita Mac and Cheese

This Chicken Fajita Mac and Cheese is a delicious fusion of creamy, cheesy goodness with the vibrant flavors of fajita-spiced chicken and sautéed vegetables. A comforting dish that's both hearty and bursting with Tex-Mex flair.

Chicken

Prep Time

15 min

Cook Time

25 min

Servings

6

Chicken Fajita Mac and Cheese combines the classic comfort food of creamy macaroni and cheese with the zesty, bold flavors of traditional chicken fajitas. Originating from Tex-Mex cuisine, fajitas typically feature marinated grilled meats served with sautéed onions and peppers. By incorporating these ingredients into a rich cheese sauce with tender pasta, this recipe creates a playful twist perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. The sautéed onions, peppers, and garlic provide a delightful aromatic base that balances the richness of the cheeses and cream. The fajita seasoning adds a smoky and slightly spicy note, elevating the dish beyond classic mac and cheese. Pair this with a fresh green salad or cilantro-lime rice to complete the meal, ideal for anyone craving both comfort and a taste of the Southwest. This dish is particularly well-suited for cooler evenings or when feeding a hungry crowd, offering both nourishment and a lively flavor profile. The combination of creamy textures with the slight bite of sautéed vegetables makes every bite satisfying and memorable.

Ingredients

  • 500 g macaroni
  • 2 cup chicken stock
  • 0.5 cup heavy cream
  • 1 packet fajita seasoning
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 3 diced chicken breast
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small finely diced onion
  • 2 finely diced red pepper
  • 2 cloves minced garlic
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese
  • garnish chopped parsley

Instructions

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion, red peppers, and minced garlic, gently sautéing them until they become beautifully translucent and fragrant, releasing their natural sweetness. Create a well in the center of the vegetables, then add the diced chicken breast. Sprinkle the fajita seasoning and salt over the chicken, stirring occasionally to allow the pieces to brown and develop a slight golden color. This step locks in flavor and adds depth to the dish. Once the chicken is lightly colored, pour in the heavy cream and chicken stock along with the uncooked macaroni. Reduce the heat to low and let everything simmer gently for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. During this time, the macaroni will cook perfectly, absorbing the rich, flavorful liquid. Finally, stir in the cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated into the creamy sauce. This creates a luscious and comforting cheese coating that envelops the pasta and chicken. To finish, top the dish with additional roasted red peppers and a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Tip: Stir the mac and cheese frequently during cooking to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan and ensure even cooking. Feel free to adjust the fajita seasoning quantity to match your preferred spice level.

Quick Info

Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
25 min
Total Time
40 min
Servings
6

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