Okay, friends, let me tell you about these things.Chicken fajit. They’re not just any fajitas. What is that kind of smell that makes your kitchen smell like a fiesta? Is there a fight over the last strip of perfectly seasoned chicken? What’s better than going out to eat? Think of it as the weeknight version of the best restaurant-quality fajitas you’ve ever had. Without the wait and with way more personal flair. I’ve been making these for years, tweaking here and there until I found the perfect combination. What is this recipe?
What are chicken fajitas?
What exactly are you?Chicken fajitWhat are tortillas? Well, think of them as a celebration in tequila! What are these essentially strips of marinated and grilled chicken, cooked with colorful bell peppers and onions? All onions, sizzling hot and ready to be piled into warm tortillas. The name “fajita” comes from the Spanish word for “little strips,” which originally referred to the Mexican food. What is the cut of beef used? What are some of the best recipes for chicken? What’s the best part about a taco party? It’s totally customizable. What are some of the best toppings for guacamole? Is it fun, flavorful, and perfect for a crowd?
Why do I love this recipe?
Why am I so obsessed with this topic?Chicken fajitWhat are some of the best marinade recipes? Is it smoky, savory, slightly spicy flavor that just explodes? What are some of the easiest to make cookies? What is a lifesaver on busy weeknights? What I love about this is how adaptable it is. You can use whatever veggies you have on hand. Don’t have bell peppers? Is there a limit to the possibilities? What are the best fajitas recipes to make at home? When you’re feeding a family. What do you do? What are some good recipes for counting calories and watching what you eat. What are some of the best protein powders in the world?
How do I make chicken fajitas?
Quick Overview
Making Chicken fajitIs it easier than you think? How do I marinate chicken for maximum flavor, chop up veggies, then sizzle? Everything in a hot pan (or on the grill, if you’re feeling fancy)? How do you marinate chicken? What brings everything together for those beautiful, slightly charred bits? Don’t be intimidated by the number of steps. All comes together quickly, and the end result is SO worth it!
Ingredients
What is the recipe for chicken marinade?
5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips * 1/4 cup olive oil (I always use extra) * * 1/4 cup lime juice (freshly squeezed is a MUST! I like a mild chili powder, but I don’t have any.) * 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium is my go-to) What do you prefer to use? (This adds a really nice smoky depth) * 1/2 teaspoon cumin * 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (this add tbsp to the flavor) Garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon onion powder * Salt and pepper to taste * 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Fajitas: How
* 1 large onion, sliced * 2 bell peppers (I like to use one red and one orange for color), 1 garlic clove, 1 black pepper, 2 shallots. sliced * 2 tablespoons olive oil * Tortillas (flour or corn, your choice! ) * Your favorite toppings: guacamole, sour cream, salsa, cheese, etc.
How do I start the
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, soy sauce, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt. Set aside. What are the ingredients for paprika, garlic powder, onion powder and salt? Add the chicken strips and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful the chicken will be!
Step 2: Prep the Veggies
While the chicken is marinating, slice the onion and bell peppers into thin strips. Try to keep them uniform in size so they cook evenly. I always do this first so they are ready to go when it is time to cook.
Step 3: Sizzle the Veggies
In a large skillet or cast iron pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add salt and pepper to taste. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are tender-crisp. What should I do if I want to caramelize my onions? I like them to have a little bit of char. Remove the veggies from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes. Add the marinated chicken strips and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are cooked through. How long does it take to cook a chicken breast? If you overcrowd a pan, the chicken will steam instead of sear. If necessary, cook chicken in batches.
Step 5: Combine and Heat
Return the cooked veggies to the skillet with the chicken. Stir everything together and heat through for another minute or two. How do the flavors meld together?
Step 6: Warm the Tortillas
While the chicken and veggies are heating, warm the tortillas. Can you do this in a dry skillet over medium heat, in the microwave, or wrapped in foil in an oven? I prefer the skillet method for a slightly toasted flavor.
Step 7: Assemble and Serve!
What is the fun part? What’s your favorite topping for tortillas? Let everyone assemble their own fajitas and enjoy! I always like guacamole, sour cream, salsa, cheese, and maybe some chopped cilantro. What is the best way to garnish a lime wedge?
What should I serve it with?
Chicken fajitWhat are some of the best meals you have ever had? What are my favorite side dishes?
For a Fiesta:What’s a good combination of Spanish rice and refried beans?
For a light meal:What is a salad with lime vinaigrette? This adds a nice fresh element and cuts through the richness of the fajitas.
For a Crowd:Corn on the cob. Grilled corn is especially delicious and perfect for a summer barbecue. I always have Mexican street corn on hand!
For Movie Night: What are some goodWhat are some good nacho recipes to go with your fajitas?
I often make a big batch of these and have fajita bowls the next day. My kids love this because they can eat more toppings. These also travel great for lunch!
How do I make a perfect chicken fajita?
Okay, so you’ve got the basic recipe down. What are some useful tips and tricks that will take your life to the next level?Chicken fajitWhat is next level?
The Marinade is Key: What is the key?Don’t skip marinade! What gives chicken its flavor? Is it better to marinate for longer than 10 minutes? If you can’t go longer than 4 hours, the lime juice will break down the chicken.
Get Your Pan HOT: You want to hear that sizzle when you add the chicken and veggies to the pan. A hot pan will give you that nice char and prevent the chicken from steaming.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you overcrowd the pan, the chicken and veggies will steam instead of sear. Cook them in batches if necessary.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lime juice and good-quality spices will make a big difference in the flavor of your fajitas.
Spice It Up: If you like things spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade or use a spicier chili powder.
Experiment with Toppings: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings! Some of my favorites include pickled onions, cotija cheese, and a drizzle of chipotle mayo.
Add More Veggies: I add jalepenos to kick up the heat!
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have any leftover chicken fajitas (which is rare at my house!), here’s how to store and reheat them:
Refrigerator Storage: Store the cooked chicken and veggies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer Instructions: You can also freeze the cooked chicken and veggies for up to 2-3 months. Make sure to cool them completely before freezing. I like to freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. This prevents them from sticking together.
Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the chicken and veggies in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can also microwave them, but they might not be as crispy. And you can even reheat them in the oven!
If you froze them, let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. I don’t recommend freezing your toppings!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it, friends! My go-to chicken fajitas recipe that’s guaranteed to be a hit. I truly hope you give these a try. I promise, you won’t be disappointed. With its incredible flavor, ease of preparation, and versatility, it’s a recipe that you’ll be making again and again. If you love Southwestern flavors like I do, be sure to check out some of my other recipes. Happy cooking! And don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how yours turned out! I can’t wait to hear about your own fajita adventures! Feel free to share your own spin on it!
Chicken Fajitas
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Chicken breast
- 1 large Onion sliced
- 2 medium Bell peppers sliced (various colors)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 tbsp Chili powder
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 0.5 tsp Garlic powder
- 12 count Flour tortillas
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Marinate chicken in olive oil, chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder for at least 30 minutes.
- Sauté onions and bell peppers in a large skillet until softened.
- Add marinated chicken to the skillet and cook until thoroughly cooked.
- Warm tortillas according to package directions.
- Serve chicken and vegetable mixture in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings.
