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Creamy Fajita Chicken Mac and Cheese

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients

Protein & Pantry

  • Chicken breast
  • Fajita seasoning
  • Olive oil
  • Chicken broth
  • All-purpose flour
  • Butter
  • Smoked paprika
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Pasta & Dairy

  • Macaroni pasta
  • Heavy cream
  • Shredded cheese cheddar, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a 3-cheese mix
  • Pecorino Romano or Parmesan optional

Veggies

  • Bell pepper
  • Onion optional
  • Garlic

Optional Toppings

  • Cilantro
  • Lime
  • Crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs

Instructions

  • Season the chicken breast with fajita seasoning and cook in olive oil in a skillet until browned and cooked through; slice or dice and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, sauté the bell pepper, onion, and garlic until softened.
  • In a saucepan, melt the butter, whisk in the flour to form a roux, then whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream until smooth.
  • Stir in the shredded cheese and smoked paprika, whisking until the sauce is melted and creamy; season with salt and pepper.
  • Boil the macaroni pasta according to package directions, then drain.
  • Combine the pasta, chicken, and sautéed peppers with the cheese sauce and toss to coat.
  • Optional: transfer to an oven-safe dish, top with extra cheese or crushed tortilla chips, and broil until golden.
  • Serve topped with cilantro and a squeeze of lime.