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Fajita Chicken Mac 'N Cheese

A bold and cheesy fusion of Tex-Mex flavors and comfort food that brings together fajita chicken and creamy mac and cheese in one delicious dish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Fajita Chicken
  • 2 large large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips About 500g / 1.1 lbs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper Optional, for heat
  • Salt and black pepper To taste
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 medium green bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 medium yellow onion, sliced
For the Mac and Cheese Base
  • 300 g elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta About 10.5 oz / 3 cups
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1 teaspoon mustard powder
  • Salt and pepper To taste
Optional Toppings
  • Sour cream
  • Sliced jalapenos
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Lime wedges
  • Crushed tortilla chips for crunch

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Start by slicing your chicken breasts into thin, even strips.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together your chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Toss your chicken strips into this spice blend and make sure every piece is well coated.
  3. Heat a large skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Add your olive oil and let it get nice and hot.
  4. Add the seasoned chicken strips in a single layer. Cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes on one side without moving them.
  5. Flip and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until fully cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Cooking the Vegetables
  1. In the same pan, add a tiny drizzle more olive oil if needed and toss in your sliced bell peppers and onion.
  2. Cook over medium-high heat for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Season lightly with a pinch of salt, pepper, and a small dusting of chili powder.
Making the Cheese Sauce
  1. In a large saucepan, melt your butter over medium heat.
  2. Once melted, add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute.
  3. Slowly pour in the milk and whisk to prevent lumps. Add the chicken broth and keep whisking until the mixture starts to thicken.
  4. Lower the heat to medium-low, add the cream cheese, then add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack in two batches.
  5. Stir in the mustard powder, salt, and pepper, and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking the Pasta and Combining
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to the package instructions until one minute before al dente.
  2. Drain the pasta and add it directly into your cheese sauce, stirring well to coat.
  3. Add your cooked fajita chicken strips and sautéed vegetables into the pasta and cheese sauce. Fold everything together gently.
  4. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for best results. Salt your pasta water generously. Let the dish rest before serving for better sauce consistency.