Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Prepare the Chicken

   Start by cutting 450g (1lb) of chicken breast into small cubes. Drizzle the chicken with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then season generously with salt and black pepper.

2. 2.Season the Chicken

   Add 2 tablespoons of Fajita spice mix, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of cumin, and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder to the chicken. Mix thoroughly with your hands to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.

3. 3.Cook the Chicken

   Heat a pan over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken pieces to the pan. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, tossing occasionally, until it is cooked through and lightly browned.

4. 4.Sauté Aromatics

   Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside. Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the same pan. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 4 minutes until it becomes translucent and slightly caramelized.

5. 5.Add Bell Pepper and Garlic

   Add the cubed green bell pepper and 2 sliced or minced garlic cloves to the pan with the onions. Mix well and continue to cook for 1-2 minutes until the bell pepper is slightly softened.

6. 6.Cook Pasta in Sauce

   Add 250g (9 oz) of dry campanelle pasta (or your preferred pasta shape) to the pan. Pour in 2 cups (450 ml) of chicken stock and 2 1/4 cups (550 ml) of milk. Reduce the heat to low and let the pasta cook until it's almost al dente and the sauce has slightly thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

7. 7.Adjust Seasoning and Add Cheese

   Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with salt, cayenne pepper, or additional chicken spices as needed. Once the pasta is al dente, remove the pan from the heat. Stir in 1 1/2 cups (160g) of grated cheese (a mix of extra sharp cheddar and mozzarella) until it is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

8. 8.Combine and Garnish

   Return the cooked chicken pieces to the pan with the pasta and sauce. Stir everything together until well combined. Garnish with finely chopped cilantro or parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious one-pan chicken fajita pasta!