Easy Fajita Chicken Breast Recipe
Imagine biting into a perfectly seasoned, juicy piece of chicken that’s bursting with the vibrant flavors of Mexican spices. This easy fajita chicken breast recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknight dinners or any time you’re craving something both healthy and packed with taste. Let’s dive into a simple method to bring restaurant-quality fajitas right to your home kitchen.
When I was younger, fajita nights were a staple in our household. My mother would gather all the kids around, and we each had a role in preparing the meal. I remember slicing peppers and onions with the utmost concentration while my siblings took turns seasoning the chicken or setting the table. Nowadays, I make this meal for my family, passing down the tradition and enjoying our own unique kitchen chaos.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile and straightforward. Firstly, it’s a one-pan wonder, which means minimal cleanup. Secondly, it requires basic ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Plus, with its bold spices, this dish caters to different palettes and can easily be adjusted for heat levels. Perfect for meal prepping, it stays moist and flavorful even after reheating.
Ingredients Notes
For this recipe, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for ease of preparation. If possible, opt for organic or free-range chicken for the best taste. Common fajita spices such as cumin, paprika, and chili powder provide the signature flavor. Fresh bell peppers and onions add the needed crunch. Feel free to substitute with poblano or even jalapeños for a spicy kick!
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Begin by slicing your chicken breasts into thin strips. This will help them cook more quickly and evenly. Make sure to slice against the grain for tender pieces.
Step 2
In a small bowl, mix together your spices – cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and garlic powder. Coat the chicken strips thoroughly in this seasoning mixture.
Step 3
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, roughly 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
Step 4
In the same skillet, add more oil if needed and toss in sliced onions and peppers. Stir-fry these until they are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?
Just drop your email here and I'll send it right away! Plus you'll get new recipes from me every week. Yes please!
Step 5
Return the chicken to the skillet, mix everything thoroughly to combine, and let the flavors meld together for an additional 2 minutes. Serve immediately with your choice of warm tortillas or over a bed of rice.
Storage Options
Store leftover fajita chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken and veggies for up to 3 months. To reheat, let defrost in the fridge overnight and then warm gently in a skillet until heated through. Adding a splash of water can help prevent the chicken from drying out.
Variations & Substitutions
For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with tofu or portobello mushrooms. Adjust the spices to suit your preference–smoky chipotle powder can add an intriguing depth. You can also add toppings like sliced avocado, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime juice for extra zest.
Serving Suggestions
Fajitas are ideal for casual dinners, family gatherings, or game nights. Serve with soft, warm tortillas and a side of salsa or guacamole. These also pair well with a crisp, light beer or a refreshing margarita for a complete Tex-Mex experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work perfectly, and they tend to be more forgiving in terms of overcooking, staying tender and flavorful. Simply adjust the cooking time as thighs might require a few extra minutes on the skillet.
What can I serve alongside this dish? Besides tortillas or rice, consider pairing the fajitas with a cool and creamy coleslaw or a side of charro beans. It helps to balance the spiciness and completes the meal with complementary textures and flavors.
How can I make this dish spicier? To ramp up the heat, add finely chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix. Serving with a hot salsa or peppery hot sauce drizzled on top also adds more heat.
This easy fajita chicken breast recipe is a reliable favorite, offering a joyous burst of flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a festive occasion, it promises to brighten up the table and satisfy every mouth it meets. Enjoy creating happy food memories around this delightful dish!
Remember it later
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Easy Fajita Chicken Breast Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken breasts boneless and skinless
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt to taste
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 1 large red bell pepper sliced
- 1 large green bell pepper sliced
- 1 large yellow onion sliced
- 2 tablespoons lime juice freshly squeezed
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro chopped, for garnish
- 8 units flour tortillas warmed
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and toss to coat evenly with the spice mixture.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 7-8 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let rest. In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers and onion. Stir occasionally until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
- Slice the chicken breasts into strips and return them to the skillet. Add lime juice and stir everything together until well combined.
- Serve the chicken and vegetables with warm tortillas, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
