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Chicken Fajita Mac and Cheese

American · Dinner · Easy

Chicken Fajita Mac and Cheese

Total
45 min
Prep
20 min
Serves
6
Calories
650
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Macaroni folds into a creamy cheddar sauce with browned chicken, sweet peppers and smoky fajita spices.

Sauteed peppers bring color and sweetness to Chicken Fajita Mac and Cheese. Cooking the pasta separately gives better control over its texture, then a little starchy water helps the cheddar sauce coat the elbows.

Grate the cheese yourself and add it off the heat for a smooth finish. Use a mild fajita seasoning if serving people who prefer gentle heat; the peppers and browned chicken still give the sauce plenty of flavor.

CheesySmokyCreamyComfort FoodWeeknightNut-freeEgg-freeHigh-protein

Method

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the macaroni for , or the package time, until just tender. Reserve 1 cup cooking water before draining.

  2. Heat the olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Toss the chicken breast with the fajita seasoning and salt, then cook for , turning, until browned and 165°F. Transfer to a plate.

  3. Cook the onion and red bell peppers in the same skillet over medium heat for until softened. Add the garlic and cook for until fragrant.

  4. Pour in the chicken broth and cream and simmer for . Remove from the heat, stir in the cheddar cheese until melted, then add the chicken and macaroni.

  5. Loosen with reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce coats every elbow. Scatter with parsley and serve while creamy.

Forkue tips

  • If your seasoning blend is very salty, omit the added salt initially and taste the finished sauce before seasoning further.

Storing and reheating

Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or water, stirring often to loosen the cheese sauce without bringing it to a hard boil.

Kitchen gear

Large potTop picks on AmazonDeep skilletTop picks on Amazon
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Nutrition per serving, estimated

650Calories
44gProtein
64gCarbs
24gFat

Chicken Fajita Mac and Cheese: FAQ

Can I cook the pasta directly in the sauce?

The liquid amounts here are for separately cooked pasta. Simmering dry macaroni in this sauce would leave it underhydrated and prone to sticking.

Can I use another cheese?

Monterey Jack melts smoothly and makes a milder sauce. Use the same amount and grate it just before adding.

How do I store and reheat Chicken Fajita Mac and Cheese?

Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or water, stirring often to loosen the cheese sauce without bringing it to a hard boil.

How long does Chicken Fajita Mac and Cheese take?

About 45 min in total: 20 min prep and 25 min cooking.

What do I need to make Chicken Fajita Mac and Cheese?

The key ingredients are macaroni, chicken broth, heavy cream, fajita seasoning, chicken breast and onion, plus pantry basics.

Any tips for Chicken Fajita Mac and Cheese?

If your seasoning blend is very salty, omit the added salt initially and taste the finished sauce before seasoning further.

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