If you’re craving a meal that’s bursting with flavor and easy to prepare, this Ultimate Chicken Fajitas Recipe is your answer. Perfectly seasoned chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and onions come together in either a skillet or crockpot to create a dish that’s both versatile and delicious. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or a casual get-together, these fajitas are sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table. Get ready to enjoy a fiesta of flavors with minimal fuss!
Steps
- Prepare the fajita seasoning by combining chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Generously coat both sides of the chicken breasts with this seasoning, pressing it in with your fingers.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the seasoned chicken for 7 to 8 minutes on each side. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest before slicing into strips.
- While the chicken is resting, slice the bell peppers and onion into thin strips. Add these to the same skillet and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until they start to caramelize.
- Slice the rested chicken into thin strips and return them to the skillet with the vegetables. Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice and stir everything together. Serve immediately with tortillas and your choice of toppings like sour cream, pico de gallo, and guacamole.
Ingredients
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 3 bell peppers, thinly sliced (use a mix of red, yellow, and green for color)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ lime
- Fajita seasoning: chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper
FAQ
- Do I need a cast iron skillet for making chicken fajitas?
- A cast iron skillet is ideal for searing chicken fajitas as it provides a nice char and enhances the seasoning flavors. However, if you don’t have one, a stainless steel pan is a suitable alternative.
- Can I prepare the chicken by slicing and seasoning it before cooking?
- Absolutely! Slicing and seasoning the chicken beforehand ensures that the seasoning coats all sides thoroughly. This step can enhance the flavor, although it is not a requirement.
- Is grilling the chicken for fajitas an option?
- Yes, grilling the chicken is a great alternative. It adds a smoky flavor that complements the Mexican spices. However, chicken fajitas are traditionally cooked in a skillet.
- How should I store leftover chicken fajitas?
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 4 to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. If frozen, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat quickly in the microwave.
- Which is better for chicken fajitas: seasoning or marinade?
- Both options work well! A dry rub fajita seasoning flavors the chicken quickly for a fast meal, while a marinade can provide additional depth of flavor. It depends on your preference and time available.
Tips
- Enhance Flavor with Homemade Seasoning: Prepare a double batch of homemade fajita seasoning to keep on hand. This custom blend of spices is more flavorful than store-bought packets and ensures you avoid unnecessary additives.
- Efficient Cooking with a Cast Iron Skillet: Use a cast iron skillet for searing the chicken. It provides a nice char and enhances the flavors. If you don’t have a cast iron skillet, a stainless steel pan is a good alternative.
- Meal Prep and Storage Tips: Fajitas are great for meal prep. Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to five days or freeze them for up to three months. Quickly reheat them for a convenient meal option.
- Experiment with Different Proteins: Don’t hesitate to swap out chicken for other proteins like shrimp or steak. This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to different types of fajitas, offering variety to your meals.
Equipment
- Cast Iron Skillet: Ideal for searing and achieving a nice char on the chicken.
- Instant-Read Thermometer: Useful for ensuring the chicken is cooked to the right internal temperature.
- Small Mixing Bowl: Necessary for mixing the homemade fajita seasoning.
- Chef’s Knife: Essential for slicing chicken, onions, and bell peppers efficiently.
