Bring the flavors of a sizzling Tex-Mex classic to your kitchen with this easy chicken fajita recipe. Juicy chicken, colorful bell peppers, and onions are perfectly seasoned and served with warm tortillas for a meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
Ingredients You’ll Need for Chicken Fajitas
For the Chicken:
- 1 ½ lbs chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
For the Vegetables:
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Pinch of salt and pepper
For Serving:
- Warm flour or corn tortillas
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
- Salsa
- Shredded cheese
- Fresh cilantro
How to Make Chicken Fajitas
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Add the chicken slices and toss to coat. Cover and let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil, then the bell peppers and onions. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Chicken:
In the same skillet, add the marinated chicken slices. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned.
4. Combine:
Return the cooked vegetables to the skillet with the chicken. Toss everything together to combine and heat through for 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve:
Serve the chicken fajita mixture hot with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and shredded cheese.
Why This Recipe Works
- Bold Seasoning: A flavorful spice blend ensures every bite is packed with Tex-Mex goodness.
- Perfectly Cooked Veggies: Slightly charred peppers and onions add sweetness and depth to the dish.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level or add your favorite toppings to suit your taste.
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Fajitas
- Slice Evenly: Ensure the chicken and vegetables are cut into uniform slices for even cooking.
- High Heat for Searing: Cook on medium-high heat to achieve that delicious char on the veggies and chicken.
- Warm Tortillas: Wrap tortillas in foil and warm them in the oven or microwave for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Fajitas
- Pair with Mexican rice and refried beans for a full Tex-Mex meal.
- Serve with a side of chips and fresh salsa or queso dip.
- Add a fresh salad topped with lime vinaigrette for a lighter option.
Storage Guidelines
- Refrigerate: Store leftover chicken and vegetables in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm leftovers in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
- Freeze: Freeze the cooked chicken and vegetable mixture for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
