Skillet Chicken Fajitas: A Quick and Delicious Recipe for Weeknight Dinners

Skillet Chicken Fajitas are a delightful and vibrant dish that brings the flavors of Mexico right to your kitchen. As I sizzle the marinated chicken and colorful bell peppers in a hot skillet, the aroma fills the air, instantly transporting me to a bustling taqueria. This dish has its roots in Tex-Mex cuisine, where it has become a beloved staple for its bold flavors and quick preparation. People love Skillet Chicken Fajitas not only for their delicious taste and satisfying texture but also for the convenience they offer on busy weeknights. With just one pan and a handful of ingredients, you can create a meal that is both hearty and healthy, making it a favorite in my household.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Juice of 1 lime
• 8 small flour or corn tortillas
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, shredded cheese

Preparing the Chicken Marinade

1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced chicken with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. 2. Squeeze the juice of half a lime over the chicken and mix everything together until the chicken is well coated. 3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, marinating for a few hours or overnight will enhance the flavors even more.

Cooking the Chicken and Vegetables

4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. 5. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken strips to the skillet in a single layer. 6. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). 7. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. 8. In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and bell peppers. 9. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-6 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. 10. Once the vegetables are cooked, return the chicken to the skillet and mix everything together. 11. Squeeze the remaining lime juice over the chicken and vegetables, and give it a good stir to combine all the flavors.

Warming the Tortillas

12. While the chicken and vegetables are cooking, you can warm the tortillas. 13. You can do this in a few different ways: – **Stovetop:** Place a dry skillet over medium heat and warm each tortilla for about 30 seconds on each side until they are pliable. – **Microwave:** Wrap a stack of tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until warm. – **Oven:** Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), wrap the tortillas in aluminum foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.

Assembling the Fajitas

14. To assemble the fajitas, take a warm tortilla and place a generous amount of the chicken and vegetable mixture in the center. 15. Add your favorite toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and shredded cheese. 16. Sprinkle some fresh chopped cilantro on top for an extra burst of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

17. Serve the assembled fajitas immediately while they are warm. 18. You can also serve the chicken and vegetable mixture on a platter alongside the warm tortillas and toppings, allowing everyone to build their own fajitas.

Storing Leftovers

19. If you have any leftovers, store the chicken and vegetable mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. 20. The tortillas can be stored separately in a zip-top bag. 21. To reheat, simply warm the chicken and vegetables in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, and warm the tortillas as described earlier.

Tips for Perfect Skillet Chicken Fajitas

22. For added flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the marinade. 23. Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preference. Zucchini, mushrooms, or corn can be great additions. 24. If you like it spicy, add some sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade. 25. For a smoky flavor, consider grilling the chicken and vegetables instead of cooking them in a skillet. Enjoy

Conclusion:

In summary, this Skillet Chicken Fajitas recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to spice up their weeknight dinners. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and zesty spices creates a dish that is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or just a cozy night in, these fajitas are sure to impress. For serving suggestions, I recommend pairing your fajitas with warm tortillas, fresh guacamole, and a side of tangy salsa. You can also get creative with variations by adding your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or even a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping the chicken for shrimp or beef, or even make it vegetarian by using grilled vegetables or tofu. I encourage you to give this Skillet Chicken Fajitas recipe a try and make it your own! Don’t forget to share your experience and any personal twists you add to the dish. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking. Happy feasting! Print