Inspired by the spirit of Tex-Mex cuisine, these Classic Chicken Fajitas marry bold smoky seasoning, vibrant peppers, and juicy marinated chicken for a sizzling, table-side favorite. A perfect balance of flavor and texture, they make an interactive and color-packed mealtime experience that's as fun to serve as it is to eat.
1.5poundsboneless skinless chicken breastssliced into thin strips
2tablespoonsolive oilextra virgin
3tablespoonslime juicefreshly squeezed
3clovesgarlicminced
1teaspoonground cumin
1teaspoonsmoked paprika
½teaspoonchili powder
½teaspoonkosher saltadjust to taste
For the Vegetables:
1largered bell pepperjulienned
1largegreen bell pepperjulienned
1mediumyellow onionsliced thin
1tablespoonolive oil
To Serve:
8piecesflour tortillas6-inch, warmed
½cupfresh cilantrochopped
1cupsour cream
1cupshredded cheesecheddar or Mexican blend
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and salt. Add chicken strips and toss until evenly coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes, or up to 2 hours.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large cast iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C). Add marinated chicken. Cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until nicely seared and cooked through (internal temp of 165°F / 74°C). Remove from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for 6–8 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened and slightly charred for optimal flavor.
Return cooked chicken to the skillet with vegetables. Toss for 1–2 minutes to heat through and mingle the flavors.
Warm the tortillas in a clean skillet or oven wrapped in foil for 3–5 minutes. Serve fajita mixture directly from the skillet, garnished with chopped cilantro. Offer sour cream, shredded cheese, and additional lime wedges on the side.
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Notes
For spicier fajitas, add a diced jalapeño to the vegetables or up the chili powder in the marinade.
Substitute chicken with thinly sliced portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches a safe internal temp.
Char the tortillas over an open flame for extra smokiness.