Let’s talk chicken fajitas! Forget those soggy fajitas you get at some restaurants – we’re making the real deal, the kind of thing. What makes a kitchen smell amazing? I get more excited about fajita night than Taco Tuesday, and that’s saying something. Is there a better way to use your phone? I’ve learned so much over the years from making them so often, so I am ready to share all my chicken. What are the best fajita recipes?
What are chicken fajitas?
Chicken fajitas are basically a party in the skillet! Think of them as the deconstructed taco – juicy, marinated chicken strips grilled or pan fried with a little cheese. What are some of the best toppings for bell peppers and onions? “Fajita” itself refers to the cut of beef originally used, but chicken has become a seriously badass. What are some of the best (and It’s essentially Tex-Mex Comfort Food, elevated by fresh ingredients and a little bit of culinary flair. Is it a win for me to spend less time in the kitchen?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Is this just another recipe? What’s your favorite Chicken Fajita recipe? What I love about this is the incredible flavor explosion you get in every bite. What makes chicken tender and juicy? How do peppers and onions get caramelized?
- Flavor, flavor, taste!What is marinade? What are the spices that perfectly complement the chicken? What are some of the best spices to add to a recipe? Smokey paprika, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder and oregano. What are some good ways to satisfy your taste buds? I’ve even been known to sneak a little taste of the marinade on its own – don’t judge!
- So easy, it’s almost unfair.What are some of the best flavor combinations in this recipe? Most of the work is just chopping veggies and letting the chicken marinate. What’s a weeknight dinner?
- What are some budget friendlyWhat are some of the best chicken thighs to buy on a budget? And you probably already have most of the spices in your pantry.
- Is it possible to be extremely versatile?What are the possibilities for salads? What are some ways to serve it high on warm tortillas, serve over rice for a quick bowl, or even toss it with salad? What is a healthy lunch? What are some of the best quesadillas you have ever had?
What are some good chicken fajitas recipes? More interactive experience. What is the flavor profile of Chicken Tacos? What makes a good fajita?
How do I make chicken fajitas?
Quick Overview
How do I make chicken fajitas at home? How do you make a marinade for chicken and veggies? Serve hot in a hot skillet with your favorite toppings. What is the secret to getting the skillet screaming hot for that perfect char and ensuring the chicken is cooked through. What is the best way to cook a chicken? Is it easier to order online than takeout?
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- 5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into strips (I prefer chicken legs because they stay juicier, not fat). How do breasts work?
- 1/4 cup olive oil. 1 teaspoon lemon juice. 1/4
- 1/4 cup lime juice (freshly squeezed is always best)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced.
- 1 tablespoon chili powder. 1 teaspoon cumin.
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder. 1 tablespoon
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika. 2 teaspoon
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder. 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano. 1/2
- 1/4 teaspoon salt. 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. 1 teaspoon salt.
For the Fajitas: What
- 1 large onion, sliced.
- 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced.
- Olive oil, for cooking.
- Flour or corn tortillas, warmed. If you like,
Toppings (get creative!):
- Salsa
- Guacamole
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt?
- Shredded cheese is
- Cilantro
- Lime wedges
What is the step-
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a medium bowl, whisk together all the marinade ingredients. Set aside. Add the chicken strips and toss to coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be! I always try to prep this step in the morning so it’s ready to go for dinner.
Step 2: Prep the Veggies
While the chicken is marinating, slice the onion and bell peppers into strips. I like to cut them about the same size as the chicken for even cooking. Is it possible to wrap tortillas in a similar way?
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
What is the best way to sear in a large skillet over medium heat? Add a tablespoon of olive oil. Mix well. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken strips in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned, flipping halfway through.
Step 4: Cook the Veggies
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add another tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until softened and slightly browned. charred, stirring occasionally. Don’t be afraid to let them get a little color!
Step 5: Combine and Sizzle
Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet with the veggies. Toss to combine and cook for another minute or two, allowing the flavors to meld together and releasing their juices. Everything to heat through.
Step 6: Warm the Tortillas
While the chicken and veggies are sizzling, warm the tortillas according to package directions. I usually just wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave them for about 30 seconds. Is it safe to cook them in a dry skillet or over an open flame?
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the chicken and veggie mixture immediately with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings. Let everyone build their own fajitas and enjoy the fiesta!
What to Serve It With
Chicken fajitas are a meal on their own, but adding some sides and toppings really takes it to the next level. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:
For a Complete Meal:
- Mexican Rice: A classic side dish that adds substance and flavor.
- Refried Beans: Creamy and comforting, refried beans are the perfect complement to the savory fajitas.
- Mexican Street Corn Salad: This vibrant and flavorful salad adds a fresh and zesty touch.
Toppings Galore:
- Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole is a must-have for fajitas.
- Salsa: Choose your favorite – pico de gallo, salsa verde, or a spicy chipotle salsa.
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Adds a cool and tangy element.
- Shredded Cheese: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend.
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a pop of flavor.
- Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice brightens up the flavors.
My family tradition usually involves a big bowl of homemade guacamole and a pitcher of refreshing margaritas (for the adults, of course!). We also love to put out a variety of salsas so everyone can customize their fajitas to their liking.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Fajitas
Over the years, I’ve picked up a few tricks for making the *best* chicken fajitas. Here’s my insider info to make you a fajita pro:
Chicken Prep: I always pat the chicken dry with paper towels before marinating. This helps the marinade adhere better and promotes browning when cooking. I also like to cut the chicken into strips that are about ¼ inch thick – this ensures they cook quickly and evenly.
Marinating Magic: Don’t skip the marinade! It’s what gives the chicken its incredible flavor and keeps it juicy. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes will make a difference, but longer is always better. I find that overnight marinating is too long and can make the chicken mushy.
Skillet Secrets: A screaming hot skillet is key to achieving that perfect char on the chicken and veggies. Use a cast iron skillet if you have one – it retains heat beautifully. Make sure to heat the skillet *before* adding the oil to prevent sticking. Also, don’t overcrowd the pan – cook the chicken and veggies in batches if necessary to ensure they brown properly.
Veggie Variations: Feel free to experiment with different veggies! Add sliced mushrooms, zucchini, or even poblano peppers for extra flavor and texture. I also like to use a mix of different colored bell peppers for a visually appealing dish.
Spice It Up: Adjust the amount of chili powder in the marinade to control the heat level. If you like it spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped jalapeño to the veggies while cooking. If you are using a jalapeno don’t touch your eyes!
Tortilla Talk: Warm tortillas are a must! I prefer flour tortillas for their soft and pliable texture, but corn tortillas are a great gluten-free option. You can warm them in the microwave, in a dry skillet, or over an open flame for a smoky flavor.
Topping Temptations: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings! The more, the merrier, in my opinion. Some of my favorites include guacamole, salsa, Sour Cream, shredded cheese, cilantro, and lime wedges.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Chicken fajitas are great for meal prepping! Here’s how to store them properly:
Refrigerator Storage: Store cooked chicken and veggies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep tortillas separate to prevent them from getting soggy.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken and veggies. Let them cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Methods:
- Skillet: Reheat the chicken and veggies in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent sticking.
- Microwave: Reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Be careful not to overcook, as the chicken can become dry.
Glaze Timing Advice: Add fresh toppings like guacamole, salsa, Sour Cream, and cilantro after reheating for the best flavor and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my go-to recipe for amazing chicken fajitas! It’s a simple, delicious, and versatile meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a fiesta for friends or just looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, these fajitas are sure to be a hit. The best part? They are easy to make! If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like my recipes for Chicken Enchiladas or homemade chili – they’re equally delicious and easy to make. Can’t wait to hear how yours turn out! Don’t forget to leave a comment and rating below, and share your own variations – I’m always looking for new ideas!
Best 7 Tips for Perfect Chicken Fajitas Every Time!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lb Boneless, skinless chicken breasts Cut into thin strips
- 1 large Bell pepper Sliced (any color)
- 1 large Onion Sliced
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 2 tbsp Fajita seasoning Store-bought or homemade
- 8 tortillas Flour tortillas Warmed
Toppings (Optional)
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
- Salsa
- Shredded cheese
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large bowl, toss chicken strips with fajita seasoning and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated.
- Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Cook until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
- Warm the flour tortillas according to package directions. Serve the chicken and vegetable mixture in the warmed tortillas. Top with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and shredded cheese.
