It is 6 pm. You are tired. Dinner needs to happen fast. These 20 minute flavorful chicken fajitas are your new secret weapon.
This recipe delivers a fresh, vibrant meal in record time. You can skip the takeout line tonight. Your family will love the bold colors and juicy flavors.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This dish is a lifesaver for busy families. It is fast and requires minimal cleanup. You only need one large skillet to make it happen. It is budget-friendly and uses simple pantry staples.
The high heat gives the chicken a perfect sear. The peppers stay crisp and sweet. It is a healthy choice that feels like a treat. This is perfect for busy weeknights when time is short.
Simple Method
You will start by tossing everything in a simple spice blend. Then you sear the chicken until golden. The vegetables follow for a quick sauté. It is incredibly easy and doable for any home cook. You will feel like a pro in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Most of these items are likely already in your kitchen. Fresh produce makes this dish shine.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch strips
- 1 large red bell pepper, deseeded and sliced into thin strips
- 1 large green bell pepper, deseeded and sliced into thin strips
- 1 large yellow onion, halved and sliced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 8 small flour tortillas, warmed
Step-by-Step
- In a small bowl, whisk together chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the chicken strips with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and half of the spice seasoning blend.
- In a separate bowl, toss the sliced bell peppers and onions with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the rest of the spice blend.
- Heat a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until wisps of smoke appear.
- Add the chicken strips to the skillet in a single layer and cook undisturbed for 2 minutes to sear. Stir and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove chicken and set aside.
- Add the peppers and onions to the same skillet. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp and slightly charred.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, drizzle with lime juice, and toss everything together for 30 seconds to incorporate flavors.
- Serve immediately with warmed tortillas and optional toppings such as sour cream or cilantro.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve these fajitas warm right from the skillet. Fill your tortillas generously with the chicken and peppers. Add a dollop of cool sour cream. A few sprigs of fresh cilantro add a bright finish. Set the table and enjoy a fun family meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to three days. This recipe is great for meal prep lunches. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat. This keeps the vegetables from getting soggy. You can also use a microwave for speed.
Recipe Tips
- Don’t skip the fresh lime juice at the end.
- Avoid crowding the pan so the chicken sears properly.
- Use a cast-iron skillet for the best charred flavor.
- Slice your chicken into even strips for uniform cooking.
- Warm your tortillas in a dry pan for a better texture.
- Double the spice blend to keep in your pantry.
- Add a handful of fresh summer corn for a sweet crunch.
- Use high-quality olive oil for the best results.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap chicken for shrimp for an even faster meal.
- Use corn tortillas to keep the dish gluten-free.
- Add sliced jalapeños if you love a spicy kick.
- In summer, swap bell peppers for thin zucchini slices.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for extra protein.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work beautifully in this recipe. They are very juicy and hard to overcook. Just ensure they reach the safe internal temperature.
Is this recipe too spicy for kids?
This blend is flavorful but mild. If your kids are sensitive, reduce the chili powder. You can always add hot sauce to your own plate later.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken should no longer be pink inside. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Using a meat thermometer is the easiest way to check.
I hope these quick fajitas bring some ease to your busy week. They are a favorite in my house for a reason. Give them a try tonight!
— Lidia
20 Minute Flavorful Chicken Fajitas
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch strips
- 1 large red bell pepper, deseeded and sliced into thin strips
- 1 large green bell pepper, deseeded and sliced into thin strips
- 1 large yellow onion, halved and sliced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 8 small flour tortillas, warmed
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the chicken strips with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and half of the spice seasoning blend.
- In a separate bowl, toss the sliced bell peppers and onions with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the rest of the spice blend.
- Heat a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until wisps of smoke appear.
- Add the chicken strips to the skillet in a single layer and cook undisturbed for 2 minutes to sear. Stir and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove chicken and set aside.
- Add the peppers and onions to the same skillet. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp and slightly charred.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, drizzle with lime juice, and toss everything together for 30 seconds to incorporate flavors.
- Serve immediately with warmed tortillas and optional toppings such as sour cream or cilantro.
