If you’re looking for a classic Mexican recipe that’s perfect for a quick, weeknight meal, these chicken fajitas will hit the spot. The juicy chicken breasts are seasoned with a flavorful mix of seasonings, then seared in a skillet until they’re tender and golden. Once the chicken is done, it’s tossed together with vibrant vegetables like peppers and onions, giving you a dish that’s packed with both lean protein and nutrients. A punch of fresh lime juice brightens everything up, making it a tasty and healthy dinner choice that’s easy to pull off even on busy weeknights.
These fajitas are ready in just 30 minutes and taste amazing when wrapped in warm tortillas. Whether you’re making a fun Mexican-inspired dinner for the family or just a cozy meal for yourself, this dish is sure to satisfy you. The chicken can be marinated up to 8 hours in advance, and the veggies can be prepared up to 3 days ahead, making it a great make-ahead option. Try serving these fajitas in taco form, over salads, or even as part of a burrito bowl. The sweet bell peppers and perfectly spiced chicken will make this a must-try recipe that everyone will love.
Why Everyone Raves About These Chicken Fajitas
When it comes to chicken fajitas, they’re hands-down my favorite item to order when dining out at Mexican restaurants. The sight of a sizzling skillet being brought to the table always gets my taste buds excited! What’s even better is that you can easily recreate this fabulous dinner at home. It’s a fun and delicious crowd-pleaser, perfect for Taco Tuesday or when you’re hosting a dinner party. One of the things I truly love about this recipe is the homemade fajita seasoning, which is simply unmatched. The simple blend of bold spices really elevates the flavor of the dish. I often make a double batch of the seasoning to keep on hand. You can have this tasty meal made in less than 30 minutes. From start to finish, it takes very little time to create juicy chicken, tender veggies, and a satisfying meal that’s a favorite for easy weeknight dinners. Plus, it’s great for meal prep! Just store any leftover fajitas in the fridge and enjoy them for several days. You can even top the sliced chicken and veggies on salad greens for a lighter lunch. Whether you want to switch things up with proteins like shrimp or steak, you can happily eat all the different types of tortillas you love
Ingredients for Chicken Fajitas
Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. For a juicier option, go with chicken thighs. Cut two chicken breasts in half lengthwise for even cooking.
Bell Peppers: Choose a mix of red, yellow, and green bell peppers for a colorful and flavorful dish. Any variety will work if you have a favorite.
Onion: One medium yellow onion, sliced, adds sweetness and texture.
Olive Oil: Needed for sautéing and marinating the chicken.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice adds a burst of flavor and helps tenderize the chicken. Don’t forget extra lime wedges for serving.
Fajita Seasoning: Skip the store-bought packs and mix your own with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Tortillas: Use smaller, hand-held tortillas. Homemade is best if you have time, but any kind will do.
Optional Add-Ons
Sour Cream: For a creamy touch.
Pico de Gallo: Adds freshness and a bit of heat.
Avocado or Guacamole: Sliced avocados or a scoop of guacamole for richness.
Cassava Flour Tortillas: A homemade gluten-free option if you’re avoiding wheat.
How To Make Chicken Fajitas
Season the chicken generously with fajita seasoning. Make sure to sprinkle the seasoning on both sides of the chicken. Use your fingers to press it in lightly, ensuring that the seasoning sticks well.
Coat a skillet with oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, sear the chicken breasts on each side for about 7 to 8 minutes. This will give the chicken a nice golden color. Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before cutting.
While the chicken is resting, slice the bell peppers and onions. Using the same skillet, add the vegetables and saute them for a few minutes until they start to soften and get a little caramelized. This is an essential step in making fajita veggies.
Now, go back to the chicken. Slice it into thin strips. If the pieces are too thick, slice the strips in half for easier eating.
Add the sliced chicken back to the skillet with the fajita veggies. Squeeze fresh lime juice on top and stir everything together.
Ways To Serve Chicken Fajitas
One favorite way to enjoy a fresh batch of chicken fajitas is to use them as tasty tacos or wraps. Simply prep a few toppings like sliced avocados, guacamole, and red salsa for a burst of flavor. For the ultimate taco wrap, fill tortillas with chicken, add pico de gallo, sour cream, and chopped cilantro for that light, refreshing taste. You can also make a bowl with Mexican rice, black beans, and sweet corn, then add a sprinkle of cotija cheese and a drizzle of lime crema or chipotle sauce for a super delicious and flavorful touch. To switch things up, use butter lettuce leaves to make a lighter wrap, and don’t forget a squeeze of lime to bring it all together.
Storing and Reheating
To store, place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 1 week.
To reheat, place in the microwave and reheat in 30-second intervals until warmed.