These best ever easy chicken fajitas are quick to make and bursting with flavor! With juicy chicken, colorful bell peppers, and tasty spices, they’re perfect for any meal.
Cooking these fajitas is a breeze! I love how you can toss everything in one pan and have a delicious dinner ready in no time. They’re also great for taco night or just a fun family dinner! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are perfect for fajitas, as they cook quickly and are easy to slice. If you want a lighter option, try using chicken thighs, which stay juicy and offer great flavor.
Bell Peppers: I used a mix of red, yellow, and green peppers for color and sweetness. If you can’t find these, feel free to substitute with other colors like orange, or even use zucchini or mushrooms if you want to switch things up.
Olive Oil: This helps to sauté the vegetables and chicken. Alternative oils, like avocado oil or even coconut oil, work well too, but I find olive oil adds a nice flavor.
Spices: The combination of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika gives fajitas their distinctive taste. Don’t worry if you’re missing one; just adjust the others accordingly for a balanced flavor!
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken perfectly is key to tasty fajitas. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your pan well before adding the chicken. This helps create a nice sear.
- Cook each side for about 5-7 minutes; look for a golden crust and ensure it’s cooked through (no pink juice).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing; this helps keep it juicy.
Following these tips will help you serve tender and flavorful chicken fajitas every time!
Best Ever Easy Chicken Fajitas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Veggies:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
For the Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Tortillas, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking, making it a quick 30-minute meal! Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner when you need something easy and delicious.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix Your Spices:
In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. This spice blend will give your fajitas a wonderful flavor.
2. Prep the Chicken:
Rub the chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then coat them generously with your spice mixture. Set the chicken aside so the flavors can soak in.
3. Cook the Veggies:
In a large cast-iron skillet or heavy pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced bell peppers and onions. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender but still slightly crisp. Once cooked, remove them from the pan and set aside.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the hot skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until the chicken is cooked through and has a lovely charred appearance. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
5. Slice the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and allow it to rest for a few minutes. After resting, slice the chicken into strips.
6. Warm the Veggies:
Return the cooked bell peppers and onions to the pan for a minute or two to warm them through.
7. Serve It Up:
On a plate, layer the warm veggies and sliced chicken. Serve with avocado slices and lime wedges on the side. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and, if you like, warm tortillas for making fajitas!
Enjoy your flavorful and colorful chicken fajitas—perfect for an easy weeknight dinner!
FAQ About Best Ever Easy Chicken Fajitas
Can I Use Other Proteins Besides Chicken?
Absolutely! Shrimp, beef, or even tofu can be great alternatives in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly, as shrimp cooks faster and beef may require a bit more time depending on the cut you choose.
What If I Don’t Have All the Spices?
No problem! If you’re missing any spices, you can create a simple fajita mix by using a pre-made taco seasoning. Just use the same amount, or adjust to taste. Remember that every spice adds its own flavor, so feel free to experiment!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent drying out.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or corn to the mix. Just make sure to slice them evenly so they cook at the same rate as the bell peppers and onions!
