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One Pot Fajita Chicken Mac and Cheese Dinner at Hols: How to Nail It in 4 Steps
Introduction
If you love comfort food with a kick, you’re in for a treat! Imagine the creamy, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese combined with the sizzling, smoky flavors of classic fajitas—sounds like the ultimate dinner, right? That’s exactly what this One Pot Fajita Chicken Mac and Cheese Dinner at Hols brings to your table.
What makes this dish so special? Well, it’s a perfect balance of rich, cheesy pasta, tender fajita-spiced chicken, and colorful bell peppers, all made in just one pot! Not only does it save you from a sink full of dishes, but it’s also a quick, family-friendly meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Think of this recipe as the bold, spicy cousin of your classic mac and cheese. While traditional mac and cheese is rich and comforting, this version adds a Tex-Mex flair that makes every bite exciting. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and easy to customize—swap in different cheeses, add extra veggies, or even throw in some shrimp for a seafood twist!
So, if you’re looking for an easy, delicious, and fun meal to serve this holiday season, this recipe is a must-try. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so irresistible and how you can make it in just four simple steps!
What is One Pot Fajita Chicken Mac and Cheese?
The name might sound like a mouthful, but trust me—it’s a mouthful of flavor, too! This dish combines the essence of two beloved classics: fajitas and mac and cheese. It’s like your taste buds are going on vacation to Texas and Italy at the same time. Who knew such a combo could work so well?
Why “one pot”? Because everything—yes, everything—is cooked in a single pot, meaning less mess and more flavor. The pasta absorbs the seasoned fajita broth, making each bite extra delicious. And let’s be honest, the way to a man’s (or anyone’s) heart is through their stomach, and this dish will win hearts in just one bite!
If you’re someone who loves bold flavors, creamy sauces, and minimal cleanup, this recipe is calling your name. So grab your pot, and let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This One Pot Fajita Chicken Mac and Cheese
1. Creamy, Spicy, and Packed with Flavor
This dish is not your average mac and cheese. The creamy cheese sauce blends perfectly with the bold, smoky flavors of fajita seasoning. Every bite is cheesy, spicy, and full of deliciously tender chicken and sautéed bell peppers. It’s the perfect mix of comfort and excitement!
2. Budget-Friendly & Easy to Make at Home
Why spend money on takeout when you can make a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen? With just a few basic ingredients like pasta, cheese, chicken, and spices, you can create a dish that tastes like a fancy Tex-Mex feast—without breaking the bank.
3. Loaded with Fresh Ingredients & Toppings
From juicy fajita-seasoned chicken to sautéed onions and peppers, this dish is loaded with fresh ingredients. Top it off with extra cheese, sour cream, or a squeeze of lime to make it even better.
Want more cheesy goodness? Try our Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese for another spicy twist!
How to Make One Pot Fajita Chicken Mac and Cheese
Quick Overview
This recipe is as easy as it gets! Everything cooks in one pot, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The chicken is seasoned with bold fajita spices, sautéed with onions and bell peppers, then simmered with pasta and cheese to create a creamy, cheesy masterpiece. Total time? Just 30 minutes!
Key Ingredients for One Pot Fajita Chicken Mac and Cheese
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fajita seasoning (or a mix of chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder)
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ tsp salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken & Veggies
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chicken strips and fajita seasoning. Cook until the chicken is golden brown.
- Add sliced onions and bell peppers, sautéing until soft.
Step 2: Simmer the Pasta
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Stir in the elbow macaroni and reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Make It Creamy & Cheesy
- Once the pasta is tender, stir in the heavy cream, cheddar, and Monterey Jack cheese.
- Keep stirring until everything melts into a creamy sauce.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
- Remove from heat and let it sit for 2 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and an extra sprinkle of cheese. Serve hot!
What to Serve One Pot Fajita Chicken Mac and Cheese With
Looking to level up your meal? Try these delicious pairings:
- Garlic Bread – A crunchy side to soak up all that cheesy sauce.
- Mexican Street Corn – Adds a sweet and spicy contrast.
- Avocado Salad – A fresh, creamy side to balance the flavors.
- Margaritas or Iced Tea – The perfect refreshing drink to wash it down.
Top Tips for Perfecting One Pot Fajita Chicken Mac and Cheese
✔ Use Freshly Grated Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly, so grate your own for a creamier texture.
✔ Don’t Overcook the Pasta – It should be al dente since it continues cooking in the sauce.
✔ Customize It! – Add cooked shrimp, chorizo, or even extra veggies like mushrooms or zucchini for a unique twist.
✔ Spice it Up! – If you love extra heat, add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Storing and Reheating Tips
How to Store Leftovers
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for up to 2 months (though fresh is always best!).
How to Reheat It
- Stovetop: Add a splash of milk and reheat over low heat, stirring frequently.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, to keep it creamy.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—One Pot Fajita Chicken Mac and Cheese Dinner at Hols, a dish that’s creamy, spicy, and irresistibly cheesy! Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight meal or serving it up at a holiday gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
So what are you waiting for? Grab your pot, get cooking, and enjoy every cheesy, spicy bite!
Love this recipe? Let us know in the comments and share it with your fellow food lovers! 🍽️🔥