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Chicken Mac and Cheese with Fajita Seasoning

Our chicken mac and cheese with fajita seasoning is a twist of creamy macaroni with cheesy spicy sauce. It is a perfect blend of smoky, savory flavor, all coming together in a cozy bowl. This one-pot recipe is protein-packed and perfect for a family meal on busy days.

Our inspiration for this recipe was to make something super delicious for the days when you feel like doing no hustle in the kitchen. Therefore, this one-pot chicken mac and cheese recipe is an ultimate fix for all of your problems.

Scroll down for the full step by step video of this recipe if you prefer to watch...

The tender chicken with the luscious cheese sauce simmers in one pot, creating a richly flavored dish where every ingredient shines. The fajita seasoning adds a subtle kick and depth that elevates the creamy cheddar sauce, making it anything but ordinary. 

Indeed, quick, satisfying, and requiring minimal cleanup, this mac and cheese is here to become your new go-to for a delicious dinner that everyone will love.

Ingredients’ Breakdown

For the Chicken

  • Chicken breast: We are using skinless, boneless chicken for this recipe. You can also use boneless chicken thighs. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
  • Salt: Of course, salt will make sure the chicken isn’t bland tasting.
  • Black pepper: It gives a peppery kick to the chicken.
  • Olive oil: We are using olive oil to cook the chicken. You can use any neutral oil as well.
  • Fajita seasoning: Fajita seasoning adds an earthy spicy kick to the chicken. You can use store-bought or homemade. See the recipe for the homemade fajita seasoning ingredients.

For the One-Pot Pasta

  • Fusilli pasta: We are using fusilli pasta for this chicken mac and cheese recipe. We highly recommend using short pasta since we are cooking everything in one pot, and short pasta cooks fast.
  • Butter: Butter will help in cooking the vegetables. It also adds a rich taste to the sauce.
  • Onion: Onion adds a unique oniony flavor.
  • Bell peppers: We are using the green bell pepper for the earthy, spicy classic fajita taste. 
  • Garlic: Garlic gives the dish a savory garlicky kick.
  • Chicken stock: We are using chicken stock to cook the pasta. It gives more flavor. But make sure to use a low-sodium stock, otherwise the mac and cheese will be salty. You can also use vegetable stock.
  • Milk: Milk will make the mac and cheese super creamy and helps as a liquid in addition to stock for pasta to cook. 
  • Shredded cheese: We are using a combination of extra-sharp cheddar & mozzarella. The sharp cheddar cheese will give earthy cheesy flavor while the mozzarella will add the cheese pull effect.
  • Cayenne pepper: If you like spicy mac and cheese, do add it. Otherwise, it is optional.
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley: It adds a pop of color and a little herby flavor as well.

Instructions

We highly recommend reading the recipe’s instructions thoroughly before starting. Make sure you have all of the ingredients measured out for every step in advance to make the recipe easier.

See the full preparation in the recipe card below with the complete instructions on how to prepare your kitchen and the ingredients, and then make this chicken mac and cheese with fajita seasonings.

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 30 mins
Total Time 45 mins
Cooking Method:
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Beginner
Servings: 4
Calories: 520
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year
Description

Our chicken mac and cheese with fajita seasoning is a bold, creamy twist on the classic comfort dish, combining tender spiced chicken, colorful vegetables, and a rich one-pot cheese sauce. Infused with fajita seasoning, this recipe brings subtle smoky heat and depth while staying familiar, cozy, and family-friendly.

Ingredients
    For the Chicken
  • 1 lb Chicken breast (About 450 g, boneless, skinless and cut into bite-size pieces)
  • Salt (to taste)
  • Black pepper (to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil (or any neutral oil)
  • 2 tablespoons Fajita seasoning
    • OR homemade seasoning substitute:
  • 1 teaspoon Chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon Ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon Garlic powder
    • For the One-Pot Pasta
  • 9 oz Fusilli or other short pasta (250 g)
  • 1 tablespoon Butter
  • 1 small Onion (chopped)
  • 2 Bell peppers (chopped)
  • 2 cloves Garlic (chopped)
  • 2 cups Chicken stock (450 ml)
  • 2¼ cups Milk (550 ml)
  • 1½ cups Chredded cheese (160 g total, extra-sharp cheddar & mozzarella)
  • ¼ teaspoon Cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
Instructions
  1. 1
    Cut the chicken breast into evenly sized bite-size pieces so they cook uniformly.
  2. 2
    Season the chicken generously with salt and black pepper, then set aside.
  3. 3
    Place a large, deep skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
  4. 4
    Add the olive oil and allow it to heat until shimmering.
  5. 5
    Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and sprinkle evenly with the fajita seasoning (or spice mix).
  6. 6
    Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked, lightly browned, and well coated in the spices.
  7. 7
    Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside. Do not clean the pan—those browned bits add flavor.
  8. 8
    Reduce the heat to medium.
  9. 9
    Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the same pan and let it melt.
  10. 10
    Add the chopped onion, garlic and bell peppers.
  11. 11
    Sauté for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables soften and the onions turn slightly translucent.
  12. 12
    Add the uncooked pasta directly into the pan with the vegetables.
  13. 13
    Pour in the chicken stock and milk, stirring well to ensure the pasta is evenly submerged.
  14. 14
    Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  15. 15
    Once it starts bubbling, reduce the heat to a steady simmer.
  16. 16
    Sprinkle some salt and more fajita seasoning as per your preference. Let the pasta cook uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring every 1–2 minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  17. 17
    As the pasta cooks, the liquid will gradually reduce and thicken into a creamy sauce.
  18. 18
    Continue cooking until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
  19. 19
    If the sauce thickens too quickly before the pasta is done, add a small splash of milk or stock.
  20. 20
    Lower the heat to low.
  21. 21
    Gradually add the shredded cheese in small handfuls, stirring after each addition until fully melted and smooth.
  22. 22
    Add the cayenne pepper at this stage if using.
  23. 23
    Stir gently until the sauce becomes creamy and glossy.
  24. 24
    Return the cooked chicken to the pan.
  25. 25
    Stir well to evenly distribute the chicken throughout the pasta and coat everything in the cheese sauce.
  26. 26
    Let the pasta simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until the chicken is heated through and the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
  27. 27
    Turn off the heat and allow the pasta to rest for 1–2 minutes to thicken slightly.
  28. 28
    Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 520kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 26g40%
Total Carbohydrate 40g14%
Dietary Fiber 3g12%
Sugars 7g
Protein 38g76%
Calcium 300 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Pro Tips

  • Stir frequently while the pasta cooks to prevent sticking
  • Use freshly grated cheese for smoother melting
  • Let the dish rest 2–3 minutes before serving for a thicker consistency

Substitutions and Variations

  • Protein Swap: Use chicken thighs or cooked rotisserie chicken
  • Spice Level: Increase cayenne or add jalapeños for more heat
  • Cheese Options: Substitute Monterey Jack or Colby for a milder finish
  • Vegetable Add-Ins: Add corn, mushrooms, or spinach for extra texture
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free short pasta with adjusted cook time
Keywords: mac and cheese, chicken, chicken mac and cheese, macaroni and cheese, cheesy macaroni, cheesy chicken macaroni, fajita, fajita mac and cheese,

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk.

Final Remarks

We always recommend checking out the entire recipe and ensuring you have all the required equipment and ingredients before you start preparing it.

The quality of the ingredients we consider is very important, so we've listed them above and linked them to where you can get them. The same applies to the equipment.

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