This Easy Chicken Fajitas recipe is perfect for busy nights! It’s full of tasty chicken, colorful peppers, and onions, all wrapped in soft tortillas. Yum!
Making these is a breeze—I just toss everything in a pan and let it sizzle. They’re so good, I often make extra to enjoy for lunch the next day. Who can resist fajitas? 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I always opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts since they cook quickly and are easy to slice. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey breast works well too, or you can use shrimp for a seafood twist!
Bell Peppers: Using a mix of red, green, and yellow bell peppers adds great color and sweetness. If bell peppers aren’t your thing, feel free to substitute with sliced zucchini or mushrooms for a different flavor.
Onion: I prefer yellow onions for their sweetness when cooked. However, red onions can offer a sharper taste that some enjoy. If you’re sensitive to onions, try using scallions instead as a milder option.
Spices: The seasoning mix gives the fajitas their fantastic flavor. If you want to change things up, add taco seasoning, or for a zesty kick, some lime juice and fresh cilantro would enrich your dish!
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the chicken just right is key for juicy fajitas. Here’s how to do it:
- Ensure the skillet is hot before adding chicken; this helps sear and lock in moisture.
- Slice the chicken thinly to quicken cooking time and ensure even doneness.
- Keep an eye on the chicken as it cooks—around 5-7 minutes should do. It’s done when there’s no pink inside and the juices run clear.
By using these tips, your chicken will be juicy and flavorful every time!
Easy Chicken Fajitas Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, lime wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation and another 15 minutes for cooking, making this a quick dinner option that takes only about 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for those busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Mix them well to create a tasty seasoning blend for your chicken and veggies.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced chicken to the skillet and sprinkle half of the seasoning mixture over it. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and lightly browned. Once it’s done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced bell peppers and onion, then sprinkle with the remaining seasoning mixture. Cook the vegetables for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender-crisp and vibrant.
4. Combine Chicken and Veggies:
Once the vegetables are cooked, return the chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together for 1-2 minutes to combine and make sure the chicken is heated through.
5. Warm the Tortillas:
While the chicken and veggies are combining, warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for about 20-30 seconds until soft.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Fill the warm tortillas with the chicken and vegetable mixture. Top with your favorite additions like sour cream, guacamole, salsa, shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. Enjoy your delicious and quick chicken fajitas!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Easy Chicken Fajitas
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken?
Absolutely! If you have pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken, just shred it and add it to the skillet with the cooked veggies for a quicker prep. Just heat through for a few minutes until everything is warm!
What Can I Substitute for Tortillas?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider serving the fajita filling over a bed of lettuce, or use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas. You can also try whole grain or gluten-free tortillas if needed!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat in the skillet or microwave until heated through. The chicken and veggies also make a great filling for wraps or salads!
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! Feel free to add more crushed red pepper flakes, or even some sliced jalapeños or hot sauce to enhance the heat level. Just adjust according to your spice preference!
