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Fajita Chicken Mac & Cheese

Creamy. Cheesy. Spicy. Loaded with flavor. This one’s a weeknight winner!

🍳
7m
Cook

Ingredients

  • chicken breast
  • olive oil
  • chili powder
  • smoked paprika
  • cumin
  • onion powder
  • garlic powder
  • Salt & pepper
  • red bell pepper
  • green bell pepper
  • yellow bell pepper
  • red onion
  • elbow macaroni
  • butter
  • flour
  • milk
  • heavy cream
  • sharp cheddar
  • Monterey Jack Pepper Jack
  • smoked paprika
  • Salt
  • reserved pasta water
  • Cilantro
  • Jalapeños
  • Lime

Method

  1. 1

    Cook macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside. (Save ½ cup pasta water.)

  2. 2

    Toss chicken with all fajita seasonings.

  3. 3

    In a skillet, heat olive oil over med-high heat.

  4. 4

    Cook chicken until browned and cooked through (5–7 mins). Set aside.

  5. 5

    In the same skillet, cook sliced peppers & onion until softened and slightly charred (5–6 mins). Set aside.

  6. 6

    In a pot, melt butter. Stir in flour and cook 1 min.

  7. 7

    Gradually whisk in milk + cream. Simmer until thickened.

  8. 8

    Stir in cheese, paprika, and salt. Mix until melted and smooth.

  9. 9

    Add pasta to cheese sauce. Fold in chicken + sautéed veggies.

  10. 10

    Stir until everything is coated in that creamy, cheesy goodness.

  11. 11

    Add pasta water if sauce needs thinning.

  12. 12

    Top with extra cheese and broil 2–3 mins for a golden bubbly finish.

  13. 13

    Add cilantro, jalapeños, or lime for extra flavor!

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