Name: Quick and Easy Chicken Fajitas Recipe for Effortless Weeknight Dinners
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: mexican inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs, sliced into thin strips; 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), sliced; 1 onion, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp lime juice; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp oregano; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 8 small tortillas; Cilantro (optional); Sour cream or guacamole (optional)

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Short Description

Chicken fajitas are a go-to meal for busy weeknights, offering bold flavors and minimal prep time. This quick and easy recipe delivers juicy, seasoned chicken, crisp bell peppers, and onions, all wrapped in warm tortillas. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a delicious, restaurant-quality dish on your table in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fast and Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
Flavorful and Satisfying – Seasoned chicken with tender-crisp vegetables creates a delicious balance of flavors and textures.
Customizable – Easily adapt the recipe to suit different dietary needs by swapping ingredients.
Minimal Cleanup – Cook everything in one pan for effortless cleanup.
Healthy and Nutritious – Packed with lean protein and fresh veggies.

Ingredients

chicken breasts or thighs bell peppers (red, yellow, or green) onion garlic olive oil lime juice chili powder cumin paprika oregano salt black pepper tortillas cilantro (optional) sour cream or guacamole (optional)

Directions

Prepare the Ingredients – Slice the chicken into thin strips. Cut the bell peppers and onion into thin slices.
Season the Chicken – In a bowl, mix the chicken strips with lime juice, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes.
Cook the Chicken – Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables – In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed. Toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook for about 5 minutes until they are slightly tender but still crisp.
Combine and Serve – Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir to combine with the veggies. Cook for another 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
Assemble the Fajitas – Warm the tortillas and fill them with the chicken and vegetable mixture. Top with cilantro, sour cream, or guacamole as desired.
Enjoy – Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Variations

Spicy Kick – Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for extra heat.
Low-Carb Option – Swap tortillas for lettuce wraps.
Grilled Version – Grill the chicken and vegetables instead of pan-frying for a smoky flavor.
Different Proteins – Substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or tofu.
Cheesy Twist – Sprinkle shredded cheese over the fajitas before serving.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken and vegetables separately in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in short intervals until heated through.

FAQs

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Marinate the chicken and avoid overcooking. Cook just until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the chicken and veggies in advance and store them separately. Cook when ready to serve.

What kind of tortillas work best?

Flour or corn tortillas both work well. Choose based on your preference.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, but reduce cooking time and focus on reheating the chicken with the seasonings.

What sides go well with chicken fajitas?

Serve with rice, beans, salad, or tortilla chips with salsa.

How can I make fajitas healthier?

Use whole wheat tortillas, reduce oil, and load up on extra veggies.

Do I need a cast iron skillet?

No, but a cast iron skillet helps achieve a nice sear on the chicken and veggies.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, but they may release more water, so cook longer to avoid excess moisture.

What’s the best way to warm tortillas?

Heat them on a dry skillet for 30 seconds per side or microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just ensure you cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Conclusion

This quick and easy chicken fajitas recipe is perfect for a fast, flavorful weeknight meal. With simple ingredients, bold flavors, and minimal prep, it’s a go-to dish the whole family will love. Try it tonight and enjoy a delicious homemade meal with ease!

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