Chicken Fajitas Recipe

Craving sizzling, restaurant-style fajitas? This Chicken Fajitas recipe keeps it simple and skips the marinade, proving that less is more. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this dish bursts with vibrant flavors and colorful veggies. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a delightful meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables and chicken ensures vibrant flavors and a healthy dish.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve with tortillas, over rice, or as a salad for varied dining experiences.
• Easy Cleanup: One skillet cooking means less washing up after a fabulous meal.
• Customizable Toppings: Top with your favorite ingredients like guacamole or Pico de Gallo for added flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are the essentials you’ll need to prepare this Chicken Fajitas recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy-bottomed skillet (preferably cast iron)
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy-bottomed skillet: This ensures even heat distribution for perfect searing of both chicken and vegetables.
• Cutting board: A stable surface to safely chop your ingredients minimizes mess and keeps your kitchen organized.
• Sharp knife: Makes slicing through chicken and vegetables easy, speeding up your preparation time.
• Tongs: Essential for flipping and tossing ingredients in the skillet without making a mess.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lb chicken breasts, sliced into cutlets then into thin strips

For the Vegetables

• 2 bell peppers, any color, seeded then thinly sliced
• 1 large sweet onion, thinly sliced
• 8 oz mushrooms, thinly sliced

Cooking Essentials

• 6 Tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• 1 lemon, sliced in half
• homemade seasoned salt, see notes
• cumin
• smoked paprika, optional

Toppings

• Sour cream
• Shredded lettuce
• Pico de Gallo
• Guacamole

How to Make Chicken Fajitas Recipe

Step 1: Season the Chicken

1. Season the chicken strips with seasoned salt along with a pinch of cumin and smoked paprika. Mix well to coat evenly and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine all vegetables by tossing them together with your hands.

Step 2: Sear the Vegetables

1. Heat 1-1/2 Tablespoons of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet over high heat until it begins to smoke.
2. Add 1/3 of the mixed vegetables in an even layer in the skillet.
3. Season with seasoned salt, a pinch of cumin, and drizzle with fresh lemon juice (about 1/2 teaspoon).
4. Let the vegetables sear undisturbed until they get nice char marks on the bottom (about 2 minutes).
5. Toss with tongs to continue sautéing until they are crisp-tender (around 3-4 minutes). Remove from skillet onto a plate.
6. Repeat this process two more times with remaining vegetables.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Add the remaining 1-1/2 Tablespoons of oil to the same skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Place the seasoned chicken strips in the skillet; drizzle some lemon juice on top.
3. Sauté until fully cooked through (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Return all previously seared vegetables back into the skillet; toss everything together to heat through.
5. Serve immediately with your chosen toppings!

How to Serve Chicken Fajitas Recipe

Sizzling chicken fajitas are perfect for gatherings or family dinners. You can serve them in various ways to enhance the experience and delight your guests.

With Warm Tortillas

• Flour or corn tortillas: Serve the fajitas wrapped in soft, warm tortillas for a traditional touch.

Topped with Fresh Ingredients

• Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa adds a zesty kick and pairs beautifully with chicken.
• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole complements the flavors of the fajitas and adds richness.

As a Salad

• Shredded lettuce: Create a fajita salad by topping lettuce with the chicken and veggies for a lighter option.

On a Platter

• Family-style serving: Arrange the chicken, veggies, and toppings on a large platter for guests to build their own fajitas.

How to Perfect Chicken Fajitas Recipe

Making perfect chicken fajitas is all about technique and timing. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use high heat: Cooking on high heat helps sear the chicken and vegetables, locking in flavors and creating that desired char.
• Cut ingredients evenly: Slice your chicken and vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking throughout.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of searing, affecting texture.
• Let it rest: Allow cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing, which keeps it juicy.
• Fresh ingredients matter: Using fresh produce enhances flavor; consider seasonal vegetables for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Fajitas Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your chicken fajitas can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mexican Rice: Flavorful rice cooked with tomatoes and spices complements the savory chicken well.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add protein and richness to your meal.
3. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn adds a delightful crunch and sweetness to balance the savory fajitas.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips with fresh salsa make an excellent appetizer or snack alongside your main dish.
5. Avocado Salad: A refreshing avocado salad can provide a creamy contrast to the spiced chicken.
6. Black Bean Salad: A tangy black bean salad adds fiber and flavor, making it a nutritious side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can greatly improve your Chicken Fajitas recipe. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Using the wrong skillet: A heavy-bottomed skillet is essential for even heat and proper searing. Choose cast iron or stainless steel for best results.
• Overcrowding the pan: If you add too many vegetables or chicken at once, they will steam instead of sear. Cook in batches to ensure everything is perfectly caramelized.
• Skipping the seasoning: Seasoning is crucial for flavor. Don’t forget to coat your chicken and vegetables with the seasoned salt, cumin, and lemon juice before cooking.
• Cooking on low heat: Sizzling fajitas require high heat for that signature char. Start on high heat and adjust as necessary to avoid burning.
• Neglecting fresh toppings: Fresh toppings like Pico de Gallo or guacamole enhance the dish’s flavor. Don’t skip them; they add freshness and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Fajitas in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chicken Fajitas Recipe

• For long-term storage, place Chicken Fajitas in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chicken Fajitas Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place fajitas on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place fajitas in a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking every 30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water or broth. Add fajitas and stir until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this Chicken Fajitas recipe.

How do you make Chicken Fajitas Recipe without alcohol?

You can easily skip alcohol by using broth or citrus juices for flavoring instead of wine or other spirits.

Can I use other meats in this Chicken Fajitas Recipe?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, lamb, or turkey based on your preference.

What toppings go well with this Chicken Fajitas Recipe?

Popular toppings include sour cream, guacamole, shredded lettuce, and fresh salsa like Pico de Gallo.

How do I customize my Chicken Fajitas Recipe?

You can add more vegetables like zucchini or corn, try different spices, or serve with various tortillas based on your taste.

Final Thoughts

This easy Chicken Fajitas recipe is perfect for any occasion! Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite veggies and toppings. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual meal at home, these fajitas are sure to impress. Give it a try tonight!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Chicken Fajitas

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Craving vibrant flavors and a quick, satisfying meal? This Chicken Fajitas Recipe is your answer! Perfectly seared chicken combined with colorful bell peppers, sweet onions, and earthy mushrooms creates a delightful dish that bursts with flavor. With just 20 minutes of prep time and minimal cleanup, this recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Customize your fajitas with fresh toppings like guacamole and Pico de Gallo for an extra flavor punch. Whether wrapped in warm tortillas or served over rice, these fajitas are sure to impress everyone at the table!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb chicken breasts
• 2 bell peppers (any color)
• 1 large sweet onion
• 8 oz mushrooms
• 6 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Lemon juice
• Seasoned salt
• Cumin
• Smoked paprika (optional)
• Sour cream
• Shredded lettuce
• Pico de Gallo
• Guacamole

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Instructions

1. Season sliced chicken with seasoned salt, cumin, and smoked paprika; set aside.
2. In a bowl, combine sliced bell peppers, onion, and mushrooms.
3. Heat 1.5 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a skillet over high heat. Sear 1/3 of the vegetable mixture until charred; remove and repeat with remaining veggies.
4. Add more oil to the skillet and cook seasoned chicken strips until fully cooked through.
5. Return all vegetables to the skillet; toss to combine and heat through.
6. Serve immediately with desired toppings.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Searing
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 340
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 100mg