Quick & Easy Chicken Fajitas Skillet: The Ultimate Mexican Recipe for a Delicious One-Pan Meal 🌮🍗🔥
1. Introduction
Discover how to make chicken fajitas that are bursting with flavor in just minutes with this quick and easy skillet recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving a Mexican recipe that is simple to prepare and satisfying to eat. This one pan meal combines tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and fragrant spices for an authentic taste in one dish. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this skillet chicken fajitas recipe is your go-to for a flavorful dinner that comes together in a breeze.
2. Ingredients for Chicken Fajitas Skillet
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, sliced into strips
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow onion, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnishes: shredded cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro, lime wedges
For additional flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of oregano. To explore more quick recipes like 15-minute garlic butter shrimp scampi or other loaded sheet pan nachos, check out our full collection of speedy dishes.
3. Preparing the Chicken and Vegetables
**Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients**
Begin by slicing the chicken into thin strips, and chop your bell peppers and onions into thin slices. Precise slicing helps the ingredients cook evenly and quickly, essential for a quick skillet meal. Keep all your ingredients within reach for smooth cooking.
**Step 2. Season the Chicken**
In a small bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken strips in the spice mixture until evenly coated. This step ensures flavorful chicken that tastes authentic and vibrant, perfect for a Mexican recipe.
4. Cooking the Chicken Fajitas in a Skillet
**Step 3. Sear the Chicken**
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken slices and cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is browned and cooked through. This forms the base of your skillet chicken fajitas.
**Step 4. Cook the Vegetables**
Add the remaining olive oil, then toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant. This process creates the perfect harmony of flavors typical in classic chicken fajitas.
**Step 5. Bring It All Together**
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2 minutes to meld the flavors. For extra zest, serve with fresh lime wedges and chopped cilantro, making the dish even more authentic.
5. Storage Tips for Leftover Chicken Fajitas
Leftover chicken fajitas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or skillet them until hot. For a crispier texture, reheat in a hot skillet without overcooking. Want to explore more quick and delicious meals? Check out this creamy chicken noodle soup, perfect for cozy nights.
6. Serving Suggestions for Chicken Fajitas
Serve your chicken fajitas in warm flour tortillas, or for a low-carb option, use lettuce wraps. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, and freshly chopped cilantro. Add a squeeze of lime for added zing. For a complete Mexican-inspired meal, pair your fajitas with side dishes like zucchini noodles with pesto or loaded nachos.
7. Tips for the Perfect Chicken Fajitas Skillet
- Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken for a good sear.
- Cut the vegetables uniformly for even cooking.
- Adjust the spice level by adding hot sauce or chili flakes.
- Use fresh ingredients for vibrant flavors.
For more quick tips and updates, visit our recipe blog.
8. Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Fajitas
- Can I make chicken fajitas ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the seasoned chicken and vegetables beforehand. Reheat in a skillet or microwave when ready to serve for a quick and easy meal.
- What is the best type of chicken for fajitas?
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. Thighs tend to be juicier, but breasts are leaner and cook quickly.
- Can I freeze leftover chicken fajitas?
- Yes, store leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.
9. Conclusion
In summary, this quick and easy chicken fajitas skillet recipe offers a delightful Mexican recipe in a one pan meal format, making dinner effortless and flavorful. Perfect for weeknights or weekend gatherings, it combines juicy, seasoned chicken with colorful bell peppers, all cooked in a matter of minutes. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be able to enjoy authentic chicken fajitas anytime. Give this delicious skillet a try and impress your family and friends!
Print
Quick & Easy Chicken Fajitas Skillet
Discover the ultimate quick and easy chicken fajitas skillet recipe, a delightful Mexican-inspired one-pan meal packed with tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and fragrant spices. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe combines simplicity and bold flavors, offering a satisfying dinner that comes together in minutes. Ideal for those craving authentic taste without the fuss, this chicken fajitas skillet is your go-to for a flavorful, stress-free meal that the whole family will love.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, sliced into strips
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow onion, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnishes: shredded cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro, lime wedges
Instructions
- Slice the chicken into thin strips and chop the bell peppers and onions into thin slices.
- In a small bowl, mix chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss chicken strips in the spice mixture until evenly coated.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally until browned and cooked through.
- Add the remaining olive oil, then toss in sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for 5 minutes until vegetables are tender but still vibrant.
- Return cooked chicken to the skillet with vegetables, stir to combine, and cook for an additional 2 minutes to meld flavors. Serve with lime wedges and cilantro for extra authenticity.
Notes
- Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken for a proper sear.
- Cut vegetables to uniform sizes for even cooking.
- Adjust spice level with hot sauce or chili flakes as desired.
- Use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Low Carb
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 350 Kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
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