Preppable Fajita Pasta Bake

Preppable fajita pasta bake with chicken, peppers, and melted cheese. A simple make ahead dinner ready in about 40 minutes.

I put this pasta bake together on a day when I wanted a dinner that could be made ahead and still feel warm and satisfying at the table. The mix of tender pasta, seasoned chicken, and melted cheese gave the whole kitchen a rich, savory smell that pulled everyone in. It looked colorful and hearty in the dish, and it felt like a full meal in one pan.

What I like most about this recipe is how simple the steps are. You cook the pasta, mix it with the fajita seasoned chicken and vegetables, then let the oven do the rest. The cheese melts over the top and turns golden, while the sauce settles into every bite. It feels like comfort food with a little extra flavor from the peppers and spices.

When I served this to the family, the plates came back almost clean. The pasta stayed tender, the chicken was juicy, and the cheese pulled into long strings with each scoop. It is the kind of meal that works on busy evenings and still feels like you made a proper dinner from scratch.

Questions you may have about this recipe

Can I make this ahead of time
Yes. Assemble the bake, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What pasta shape works best
Short pasta like penne or rotini holds the sauce well.

Can I use leftover chicken
Yes. Stir in cooked shredded chicken instead of fresh.

How do I make it spicier
Add 1 2 tsp chili powder or diced jalapenos.

Can I freeze this pasta bake
Yes. Freeze before baking and cook straight from frozen, adding extra time.

What you need to make Preppable Fajita Pasta Bake

12 oz penne pasta

2 cups cooked chicken, diced

1 tbsp olive oil

1 red bell pepper, sliced

1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

1 small onion, sliced

1 packet fajita seasoning

1 cup salsa

1/2 cup chicken broth

2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese

How to make Preppable Fajita Pasta Bake

Cook pasta in salted water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Add peppers and onion and cook for 5 minutes until soft.

Stir in chicken and fajita seasoning.

Add salsa and chicken broth.

Simmer for 5 minutes.

Combine cooked pasta with the chicken mixture.

Transfer to a baking dish.

Top with shredded cheese.

Bake at 375 degrees F for 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips

Cook pasta just until tender so it does not turn soft in the oven.

Use a mix of cheeses for more flavor.

Add a spoon of sour cream on top when serving.

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reader reviews

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Great weeknight meal and easy to prep ahead.” Martha D

⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Nice flavor and very filling.” James B

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “The cheese on top made this a family favorite.” Linda R

⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Good balance of spice and creaminess.” Harold S

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Perfect for busy evenings and easy to reheat.” Nancy T

Printable Recipe

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