# What You Need:
→ Chicken & Marinade
01 - 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.1 lbs), cut into thin strips
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - 2 teaspoons chili powder
04 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
05 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
06 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
08 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
09 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
10 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
11 - Juice of 1/2 lime
→ Vegetables
12 - 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
13 - 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
14 - 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
15 - 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
16 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
→ Pasta & Sauce
17 - 10 oz penne or rotini pasta
18 - 1 2/3 cups chicken broth
19 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
20 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
21 - 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
→ Garnishes (optional)
22 - Fresh cilantro, chopped
23 - Lime wedges
24 - Sliced jalapeños
# How-To Steps:
01 - In a bowl, combine chicken strips with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, black pepper, and lime juice. Toss to coat thoroughly and let marinate for 10 minutes at room temperature.
02 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
03 - Heat a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken in a single layer and cook for 4–5 minutes, turning once, until browned on the outside and cooked through. Transfer chicken to a clean plate.
04 - Add a splash of olive oil to the same skillet if needed. Add bell peppers and onion, sautéing for 4–5 minutes until softened and beginning to caramelize. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
05 - Return chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Add cooked pasta, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir to combine everything evenly. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
06 - Reduce heat to low. Gradually add cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring constantly until completely melted and the sauce becomes creamy and coats the pasta evenly.
07 - Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and sliced jalapeños if desired.
