
Crockpot Chicken Fajita Pasta is the kind of dinner that feels like a small rescue plan on a busy day. It brings together tender slow-cooked chicken, colorful bell peppers, sliced onion, Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, fajita seasoning, pasta, and a creamy layer of Mexican blend cheese.
This is the meal I think of when the evening is already full before dinner even begins. You can have laundry waiting, people asking questions, a calendar that ran too long, and still end up with a warm, filling meal that tastes like you meant to make something special.
What makes this recipe so useful is the way it combines comfort and convenience. You get the smoky, seasoned flavor of chicken fajitas, but instead of standing at a skillet, the crockpot does the slow cooking while you handle everything else.
The chicken cooks with peppers, onion, tomatoes, seasoning, garlic powder, broth, salt, pepper, and that optional Buttery Garlic & Herb seasoning. Once the chicken is tender enough to shred, cooked pasta and cheese turn everything into a creamy, hearty dinner.
It is a dump-and-go style recipe, but the final dish tastes much more layered than the effort suggests. The peppers soften, the onion melts into the sauce, the Rotel adds zing, and the cheese pulls the whole pot into cozy pasta territory.
This is a weeknight dinner, a family meal, a leftover hero, and a casual crowd-pleaser all in one. It is simple enough for a tired night and generous enough to serve straight from the crockpot at a gathering.
Table of Contents
- Why You’ll Love Crockpot Chicken Fajita Pasta
- A Slow Cooker Pasta Dinner with Fajita Flavor
- Recipe Details
- Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken Fajita Pasta
- Chicken and Vegetables
- Sauce and Seasonings
- Pasta and Cheese
- Before You Start
- Directions for Crockpot Chicken Fajita Pasta
- Step 1: Place the Chicken in the Crockpot
- Step 2: Add the Sliced Bell Peppers
- Step 3: Add the Sliced Onion
- Step 4: Add the Rotel
- Step 5: Sprinkle the Fajita Seasoning
- Step 6: Add Garlic Powder
- Step 7: Add the Buttery Garlic & Herb Seasoning If Using
- Step 8: Add Salt and Black Pepper
- Step 9: Pour in the Chicken Broth
- Step 10: Stir Gently If Desired
- Step 11: Cover the Crockpot
- Step 12: Cook on Low
- Step 13: Check the Chicken
- Step 14: Use the High Setting If Needed
- Step 15: Shred the Chicken
- Step 16: Stir the Shredded Chicken Into the Sauce
- Step 17: Add the Cooked Pasta
- Step 18: Add the Mexican Blend Cheese
- Step 19: Stir Until Creamy
- Step 20: Let It Sit With the Lid Off
- Step 21: Taste and Adjust
- Step 22: Serve Hot
- Crockpot Chicken Fajita Pasta Variations
- Serving Ideas
- Storage Tips
- Reheating Tips
- Freezing Tips
- Make-Ahead Tips
- Helpful Notes for the Best Crockpot Chicken Fajita Pasta
- Troubleshooting Crockpot Chicken Fajita Pasta
- Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Chicken Fajita Pasta
- Final Thoughts
- Crockpot Chicken Fajita Pasta
Why You’ll Love Crockpot Chicken Fajita Pasta
You will love this Crockpot Chicken Fajita Pasta because it gives you big flavor without demanding much from you. The prep is simple, the slow cooker does most of the work, and the pasta and cheese finish the dish right at the end.
It is easy in the best possible way. You add the chicken, sliced peppers, onion, Rotel, broth, and seasonings to the crockpot, then let everything cook until the chicken shreds.
The flavors are family-friendly and bold. The fajita seasoning, garlic powder, Rotel, peppers, and onion create that familiar fajita-style taste, while the cheese makes it creamy and comforting.
It is also very customizable. You can change the protein, adjust the spice level, add extra vegetables, use gluten-free pasta, or switch the cheese.
The leftovers are practical and delicious. This dish tastes even better the next day, and portions can be packed for lunches or frozen for future meals.
It also keeps cleanup easier than a full stovetop dinner. The crockpot handles the main cooking, and the cooked pasta gets stirred in at the end.
A Slow Cooker Pasta Dinner with Fajita Flavor
This recipe works because it takes the best parts of chicken fajitas and turns them into a creamy pasta meal. You still get chicken, peppers, onion, and seasoning, but the final texture is cozy and saucy.
The chicken breasts cook whole in the crockpot. That keeps prep easy because there is no need to chop raw chicken before cooking.
The bell peppers add color and sweetness. Red, green, and yellow peppers make the dish look bright, but any color can work.
The onion adds savory depth. Slicing it with the grain, from pole to pole, helps the pieces stay more intact during cooking.
Rotel tomatoes with green chilies add moisture, tomato flavor, and a little kick. Mild or hot can be used depending on how spicy you want the dish.
Cooked penne or rotini is stirred in at the end. This keeps the pasta from absorbing too much liquid and turning mushy while the chicken cooks.
Recipe Details
- Recipe Name: Crockpot Chicken Fajita Pasta
- Recipe Style: Slow cooker chicken pasta with fajita flavors
- Main Protein: 3 large chicken breasts
- Vegetables: 3 bell peppers and 1 large onion
- Tomato Ingredient: 1 can Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, 10 oz
- Main Seasoning: 1 packet fajita seasoning or taco seasoning
- Slow Cooker Time: 4 hours on low
- High Setting Option: 2 to 2.5 hours on high
- Frozen Chicken Note: Add 30 extra minutes to the cook time
- Pasta: 12 oz penne or rotini, cooked and drained
- Cheese: 1 bag Mexican blend cheese, 8 oz
- Rest After Adding Pasta and Cheese: 5 to 10 minutes with the lid off
- Refrigerator Storage: Up to 4 days
- Freezer Storage: Up to 3 months
- Best Freezer Tip: Freeze without pasta if possible, then cook fresh pasta when reheating
Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken Fajita Pasta
This recipe uses simple, familiar ingredients that work together to make a creamy fajita-style pasta. The chicken and vegetables slow cook in the seasoned sauce, then pasta and cheese turn the mixture into a hearty meal.
Chicken and Vegetables
You need 3 large chicken breasts. Fresh chicken works well, but frozen chicken can also be used.
If using frozen chicken, add 30 extra minutes to the cook time. The chicken should shred easily with a fork when it is done.
You need 3 bell peppers, red, green, and yellow, sliced. The colorful mix makes the pasta look pretty, but any bell pepper colors can work.
Slice the peppers about 1/4-inch thick. This helps them hold up during cooking instead of disappearing into the sauce.
You need 1 large onion, sliced. Yellow or white onion both work well.
For pieces that stay more intact, slice with the grain from pole to pole. The onion will soften as it cooks and add savory sweetness to the sauce.
Sauce and Seasonings
You need 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes with green chilies. Use the whole can, including the juices.
Mild or hot Rotel can be used depending on your spice preference. The tomatoes and chilies add zing and moisture.
If you cannot find Rotel, use 1 cup salsa plus 1/4 cup diced tomatoes. This keeps the same saucy tomato-chile idea.
You need 1 packet fajita seasoning or taco seasoning. Store-bought seasoning is the easy shortcut here.
Fajita seasoning gives the recipe its classic flavor. Taco seasoning works if that is what you have.
You need 1 teaspoon garlic powder. Garlic powder creates the flavor backbone of the dish.
Fresh minced garlic can also be used. If using fresh garlic, use 3 cloves.
You need 1 teaspoon Kinder’s Buttery Garlic & Herb seasoning, optional. This is described as a secret weapon in the original recipe.
If you cannot find it, skip it and add extra garlic powder. The dish will still be flavorful.
You need 1/2 teaspoon black pepper and 1/2 teaspoon salt. These can be adjusted to taste after cooking.
Because seasoning packets and cheese can vary in saltiness, taste near the end before adding more. This gives you better control.
You need 1 cup chicken broth. Low-sodium broth is best so you can control the salt level.
The broth helps the chicken cook and creates the base of the sauce. It also helps distribute the seasonings through the pot.
Pasta and Cheese
You need 12 oz penne or rotini pasta, cooked and drained. Short, sturdy pasta shapes work best.
Cook the pasta al dente. It will soften more after being stirred into the hot crockpot mixture.
You need 1 bag (8 oz) Mexican blend cheese. Pre-shredded cheese is convenient and works well.
Freshly grated cheese melts smoother if you prefer it. Either option works for this easy recipe.
Before You Start
Before turning on the crockpot, slice the bell peppers and onion. Keeping the slices fairly even helps them cook evenly.
Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot whole. There is no need to cut them before cooking.
Open the Rotel and keep the juices. The liquid in the can is part of the sauce.
Measure the seasonings and broth so everything is ready to add. Once the chicken and vegetables are layered, the rest of the setup is quick.
Cook the pasta separately and keep it ready for the end. Do not add uncooked pasta to the crockpot at the beginning because it can soak up too much liquid and turn mushy.
Directions for Crockpot Chicken Fajita Pasta
Step 1: Place the Chicken in the Crockpot
Add the 3 large chicken breasts directly to the bottom of the crockpot. There is no need to chop them first.
Leaving them whole keeps the prep simple. They will cook until tender and then shred easily at the end.
Step 2: Add the Sliced Bell Peppers
Scatter the sliced red, green, and yellow bell peppers over and around the chicken. Spread them out so they cook evenly.
The peppers will soften and release flavor as they cook. Their color also makes the finished pasta look bright and inviting.
Step 3: Add the Sliced Onion
Add the sliced onion to the crockpot with the chicken and peppers. Let it fall naturally over the top.
The onion will soften into the sauce. It adds sweetness and savory depth to the fajita flavor.
Step 4: Add the Rotel
Pour the 10 oz can of Rotel tomatoes with green chilies over the chicken and vegetables. Include the juices.
The Rotel adds tomato flavor, green chili flavor, and moisture. This ingredient helps create the saucy base.
Step 5: Sprinkle the Fajita Seasoning
Sprinkle the fajita seasoning packet evenly over the ingredients. Try to cover both the chicken and the vegetables.
The seasoning will flavor the entire dish as it cooks. Taco seasoning can be used instead if needed.
Step 6: Add Garlic Powder
Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon garlic powder. Spread it evenly over the surface.
Garlic powder gives the dish a steady savory flavor. If using fresh minced garlic instead, add 3 cloves.
Step 7: Add the Buttery Garlic & Herb Seasoning If Using
Add 1 teaspoon Kinder’s Buttery Garlic & Herb seasoning if you have it. This adds extra flavor to the sauce.
If you do not have it, skip it or add extra garlic powder. The recipe is still delicious without it.
Step 8: Add Salt and Black Pepper
Add 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. You can adjust more later after cooking.
Starting with a measured amount helps keep the flavor balanced. Seasoning packets, broth, and cheese can all affect the final salt level.
Step 9: Pour in the Chicken Broth
Pour 1 cup chicken broth around the edges of the crockpot. This helps avoid washing all the seasonings off the chicken at once.
The broth creates the cooking liquid. It also helps the chicken stay moist and helps the seasonings spread.
Step 10: Stir Gently If Desired
You can give everything a gentle stir, but it is not required. The crockpot will distribute the flavors as the ingredients cook.
If you stir, do it lightly so the chicken stays mostly under the vegetables and sauce. The goal is simple mixing, not perfect arrangement.
Step 11: Cover the Crockpot
Place the lid on the crockpot. Make sure it is secure.
Keeping the lid closed helps hold heat and moisture inside. This is important for tender chicken.
Step 12: Cook on Low
Set the crockpot to low and cook for 4 hours. This gives the chicken time to become tender and flavorful.
Do not peek too often. Lifting the lid lets heat escape and can slow the cooking.
Step 13: Check the Chicken
After 4 hours, check whether the chicken shreds easily with a fork. It should pull apart without much effort.
If it does not shred easily, cook for another 30 minutes. This extra time helps finish the chicken.
Step 14: Use the High Setting If Needed
If you are short on time, you can cook the dish on high for 2 to 2.5 hours. Low and slow gives the best flavor, but high works when needed.
Check the chicken earlier when cooking on high. It should shred easily before you move to the next step.
Step 15: Shred the Chicken
Shred the chicken directly in the crockpot using two forks. It should fall apart into tender pieces.
Shredding it in the pot helps the chicken absorb the sauce. It also keeps all the flavor in one place.
Step 16: Stir the Shredded Chicken Into the Sauce
Mix the shredded chicken with the peppers, onion, tomatoes, broth, and seasonings. Stir gently until everything is combined.
This helps coat every bite in fajita flavor. The sauce should look colorful and rich.
Step 17: Add the Cooked Pasta
Add the cooked and drained penne or rotini to the crockpot. The pasta should be cooked al dente.
Al dente pasta holds up better in the hot sauce. Fully soft pasta can become too mushy after stirring.
Step 18: Add the Mexican Blend Cheese
Add the 8 oz bag of Mexican blend cheese. Sprinkle it over the pasta and chicken mixture.
For smoother melting, stir in the cheese gradually. This is especially helpful if using pre-shredded cheese.
Step 19: Stir Until Creamy
Stir everything together until the pasta is coated and the cheese begins melting into the sauce. The mixture should become creamy and cheesy.
Make sure the pasta is evenly distributed. Each scoop should have chicken, peppers, onion, pasta, and cheese.
Step 20: Let It Sit With the Lid Off
Let the pasta sit for 5 to 10 minutes with the lid off. This gives the cheese time to melt into the sauce without trapping too much extra moisture.
The sauce will settle and thicken slightly. This short rest also makes the dish easier to serve.
Step 21: Taste and Adjust
Taste the pasta and adjust salt or pepper if needed. Add only a little at a time.
The flavors may already be seasoned enough from the packet, Rotel, broth, and cheese. Taste first before adding more.
Step 22: Serve Hot
Serve the pasta hot while the cheese is creamy. Scoop it straight from the crockpot into bowls or plates.
Add toppings like cilantro, lime juice, sour cream, avocado, or crushed tortilla chips if desired. These finishes make the dish feel fresh and fun.

Crockpot Chicken Fajita Pasta Variations
This recipe is forgiving and easy to change. You can adjust the protein, vegetables, pasta, spice level, or cheese based on what your family likes.
Shrimp Fajita Pasta
Use shrimp instead of chicken. Add shrimp during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Shrimp cooks quickly, so it should not go in at the beginning. Adding it late keeps it from overcooking.
Ground Beef Fajita Pasta
Use ground beef for a different version. Brown it first, then add it to the crockpot.
Browning the beef before slow cooking gives better texture. Then continue with the peppers, onion, Rotel, seasonings, broth, pasta, and cheese.
Vegetarian Fajita Pasta
Use black beans or tofu cubes instead of chicken. This turns the dish into a meat-free version.
Black beans add heartiness, while tofu cubes absorb the seasoning. Keep the sauce and vegetable base the same.
Gluten-Free Version
Use your favorite gluten-free pasta. Cook it al dente before adding it at the end.
Corn or rice-based pastas work well here. They will continue to soften after being stirred into the crockpot.
Extra Vegetable Version
Add zucchini, mushrooms, or corn for more color and texture. Chop everything into bite-sized pieces so it cooks evenly.
Extra vegetables make the dish more colorful. They also help stretch the meal.
Spicy Version
Add a diced jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper if you love heat. You can also use hot Rotel.
These additions make the dish bolder. Start small if serving people with different spice preferences.
Mild Version
Use mild Rotel or plain diced tomatoes. You can also skip the black pepper and choose a mild fajita seasoning packet.
If needed, use half the seasoning packet. Taste before adding pasta and adjust as needed.
Pepper Jack Version
Use pepper jack cheese for a kick. It adds extra spice and creaminess.
This is a good option if your family likes bolder flavor. It pairs well with Rotel and fajita seasoning.
Cheddar Version
Use cheddar cheese for a more classic flavor. Cheddar gives the pasta a familiar cheesy taste.
It is a simple swap if you do not have Mexican blend cheese. The sauce will still be rich and comforting.
Dairy-Free Cheese Version
Use dairy-free cheese shreds for a vegan-style cheese swap. They can melt surprisingly well.
The texture may vary depending on the brand. Stir gently and give it time to soften into the sauce.
Serving Ideas
Serve this Crockpot Chicken Fajita Pasta hot, straight from the crockpot. It stays warm well, which makes it useful for casual gatherings.
Fresh cilantro is a great topping if you like it. If not, parsley can be used instead.
A squeeze of lime juice brightens the rich, cheesy sauce. It makes the fajita flavors taste fresher.
Sour cream adds cool creaminess. Sliced avocado makes the dish feel extra satisfying.
Crushed tortilla chips add crunch. They are especially fun if you want to lean into the fajita-style flavor.
A simple side salad works well with this pasta. Garlic bread is another good option if you want a heartier meal.
Storage Tips
Let leftovers cool completely before storing. Transfer them to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors settle as the pasta sits, which can make leftovers taste even better.
The pasta may thicken in the fridge. That is normal because it continues to absorb sauce.
Keep any fresh toppings separate. Add cilantro, lime, avocado, or tortilla chips only when serving.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, add a splash of broth or water. This helps loosen the sauce and keep the pasta from drying out.
Microwave until warm, stirring halfway through. Stirring helps the heat distribute evenly.
You can also warm portions gently on the stovetop if desired. Add liquid as needed to bring back the creamy texture.
Do not overheat for too long. The pasta is already cooked and only needs to be warmed through.
Freezing Tips
Freeze portions in zip-top bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
For the best texture, freeze the chicken, peppers, and sauce without the pasta if you can. Then cook fresh pasta when reheating.
Pasta can become softer after freezing and reheating. Freezing without pasta helps avoid mushiness.
If freezing the full finished dish, add a little broth or water when reheating. This helps restore the sauce.
Make-Ahead Tips
You can slice the peppers and onion ahead of time. Store them covered in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
You can also measure the dry seasonings in advance. This makes the morning or afternoon crockpot setup even faster.
Cook the pasta close to the end of the slow cooker time. It is best stirred in fresh and al dente.
If making for meal prep, consider keeping pasta separate until serving. This helps preserve texture.
Helpful Notes for the Best Crockpot Chicken Fajita Pasta
Use Al Dente Pasta
Cook the pasta separately and keep it al dente. It will soften more after being stirred into the hot crockpot mixture.
Do not add uncooked pasta at the beginning. It can absorb too much liquid and turn mushy.
Keep the Lid Closed
Avoid opening the crockpot too often while the chicken cooks. Heat escapes every time the lid comes off.
Keeping the lid closed helps the chicken become tender. It also helps the peppers and onions cook properly.
Add Cheese Gradually If Needed
Pre-shredded cheese can sometimes clump because of anti-caking agents. Stir it in small handfuls for smoother melting.
Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly. Either option works, but the texture can be different.
Make It Extra Creamy
For a creamier finish, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a big spoonful of sour cream before serving. This makes the sauce richer.
Add these creamy ingredients at the end. They are meant to finish the dish, not slow cook all day.
Adjust the Spice Level
Use mild Rotel and mild seasoning for a kid-friendly version. Skip the black pepper if you want it even gentler.
For more heat, use hot Rotel, jalapeño, or cayenne pepper. Taste and adjust based on your preference.
Use Low-Sodium Broth
Low-sodium chicken broth is best because it lets you control the salt. Seasoning packets and cheese already contain salt.
Taste after the pasta and cheese are mixed in. Then adjust salt if needed.
Troubleshooting Crockpot Chicken Fajita Pasta
Why Is My Pasta Mushy?
The pasta may have been overcooked before adding it, or it may have sat too long in the crockpot. Cook it al dente and stir it in at the end.
Do not cook dry pasta in the crockpot from the start. It can soak up too much liquid and become mushy.
Why Is My Cheese Clumping?
Pre-shredded cheese can clump because of anti-caking agents. Stir it in small handfuls instead of adding it all at once.
Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly. You can use either, but adjust your stirring method.
Why Is the Sauce Too Thick?
The pasta may have absorbed a lot of liquid. Add a splash of broth or water and stir.
This is especially useful when reheating leftovers. Add just enough liquid to loosen the sauce.
Why Is the Sauce Too Thin?
The dish may need to sit for 5 to 10 minutes with the lid off after adding pasta and cheese. This helps the sauce settle and thicken.
The pasta also absorbs some sauce as it rests. Give it a few minutes before deciding it is too thin.
Why Is My Chicken Not Shredding?
The chicken may need more time. Cook another 30 minutes and check again.
Chicken should shred easily with a fork when done. If it resists, it is not tender enough yet.
Why Is It Too Spicy?
Use mild Rotel or plain diced tomatoes next time. You can also use a mild fajita seasoning or half the packet.
For the current batch, add sour cream or extra cheese to soften the heat. A squeeze of lime can also help brighten the flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Chicken Fajita Pasta
Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Rotel?
Yes, use 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes plus 1 small can of diced green chilies. You can also use a chopped jalapeño for a kick.
The sauce may be a little thinner. Reduce the broth by 1/4 cup if using this swap.
How Can I Make It Less Spicy for Kids?
Use mild Rotel or plain diced tomatoes. Skip the black pepper and choose a mild fajita seasoning packet.
You can also use half the seasoning packet. Taste before adding pasta and adjust as needed.
Can I Use Uncooked Pasta in the Crockpot?
It is not recommended. Uncooked pasta can soak up too much liquid and turn mushy.
Cook the pasta separately until al dente. Stir it in at the end for the best texture.
What If I Do Not Have Fajita Seasoning?
Use taco seasoning instead. You can also make your own with 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1/2 teaspoon each paprika and oregano, plus a pinch of cayenne.
This keeps the flavor in the same direction. Use what you have.
Why Is My Cheese Clumping?
Pre-shredded cheese can be stubborn because of anti-caking agents. Stir it in small handfuls at a time.
Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly. Let the dish sit for 5 to 10 minutes so the cheese can soften into the sauce.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken?
Yes, frozen chicken works. Add 30 extra minutes to the cook time.
Make sure the chicken shreds easily before adding pasta and cheese. If it does not, cook longer.
Can I Cook This on High?
Yes, cook on high for 2 to 2.5 hours if you are short on time. Low and slow gives the best flavor.
Check the chicken for tenderness before shredding. It should pull apart easily.
Can I Freeze This Pasta?
Yes, freeze portions in zip-top bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
For best results, freeze without the pasta and add freshly cooked pasta later. This helps avoid mushy texture.
Final Thoughts
Crockpot Chicken Fajita Pasta is the kind of meal that makes a busy day feel more manageable. It is easy to assemble, full of smoky fajita flavor, and finished with pasta and cheese for a creamy, satisfying dinner.
The chicken cooks slowly with bell peppers, onion, Rotel, broth, fajita seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and optional Buttery Garlic & Herb seasoning. Then everything gets shredded, stirred with cooked pasta, and finished with Mexican blend cheese.
It is family-friendly, flexible, and practical for leftovers. You can make it mild or spicy, add more vegetables, swap proteins, use gluten-free pasta, or change the cheese.
It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months. For the best freezer texture, save the pasta for later and add it fresh when reheating.
Serve it with cilantro, lime juice, sour cream, avocado, crushed tortilla chips, a simple salad, or garlic bread. However you finish it, this crockpot pasta is comforting, colorful, and dependable enough to earn a regular place in your dinner rotation.
Crockpot Chicken Fajita Pasta

Crockpot Chicken Fajita Pasta is a creamy, cheesy dinner with tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, onion, warm fajita seasoning, and pasta all mixed together in a flavorful sauce. The slow cooker helps the chicken cook until tender, while the Rotel tomatoes and seasonings give the dish a bold Mexican-inspired taste. This recipe is a great option for busy days because the chicken and vegetables cook hands-off in the crockpot. Once the chicken is shredded, the cooked pasta and Mexican blend cheese turn everything into a hearty, comforting meal.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Course: Dinner
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Servings: 6 people
Equipment
- crockpot
- large pot
Ingredients
For the Pasta and Cheese
- 12 oz penne or rotini pasta, cooked and drained
- 1 bag (8 oz) Mexican blend cheese
For the Sauce and Seasonings
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 packet fajita seasoning (or taco seasoning)
- 1 teaspoon Kinder’s Buttery Garlic & Herb seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Chicken and Vegetables
- 3 bell peppers (red, green, yellow), sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 large chicken breasts
Instructions
Step 1: Add the Chicken and Vegetables
Place the chicken breasts, sliced bell peppers, and sliced onion into the crockpot.
Step 2: Add the Sauce Ingredients
Add the Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, fajita seasoning, garlic powder, Kinder’s Buttery Garlic & Herb seasoning, black pepper, salt, and chicken broth to the crockpot.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Chicken
Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, or until the chicken is tender.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Use a fork to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot or on a plate, then return it to the sauce and vegetables if removed.
Step 5: Add Pasta and Cheese
Stir in the cooked and drained penne or rotini pasta along with the Mexican blend cheese. Mix until everything is well combined and the cheese melts into the sauce.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Serve the pasta hot while the sauce is creamy and the cheese is melted.
Notes
For extra creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream or sour cream before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Warm tortillas
- Garlic bread
- Side salad
- Avocado slices
- Sour cream
- Pico de gallo
- Lime wedges
Storage
How to Store
Let the pasta cool completely, then store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
How to Reheat
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a small splash of chicken broth if the pasta thickens after chilling.
Best Texture Tip
Cook and drain the pasta separately before stirring it into the crockpot so it stays tender without becoming overly soft.

Fernando is the creator and writer behind the food blog Eating with your Hands. Living and working in cities like Paris, Barcelona, and Berlin, and being married to a Canadian foodie, has given Fernando a passion and interest in food and inspired him to run EWYH.