Chicken Fajitas
Sliced chicken with charred peppers and onion, served with whole-wheat tortillas, salsa, and avocado.
For 2 servings
3 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Toss sliced chicken with cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and half the lime juice.
- b.Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- c.Sear chicken for 5 minutes until golden and cooked through, then remove and set aside.
TIPAvoid crowding the pan to ensure the chicken sears rather than steams. - 2
Step 2
- a.Add sliced red and green bell peppers and onion to the same skillet.
- b.Sauté on high heat for 5 minutes until edges are slightly charred.
- c.Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
TIPKeep the heat high to get the signature smoky char without oversoftening the vegetables. - 3
Step 3
- a.Return the chicken to the skillet and toss with the vegetables to reheat.
- b.Warm the whole-wheat tortillas in a dry pan or microwave.
- c.Serve filling in tortillas topped with avocado, salsa, cilantro, and remaining lime.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best sear and classic 'sizzle', use a cast-iron skillet and ensure it's very hot before adding ingredients.
- 2Don't overcrowd the pan. Cooking in batches ensures the chicken and vegetables char properly instead of steaming.
- 3For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for a few hours or even overnight in the refrigerator.
- 4Slice the chicken and vegetables into uniform strips for even cooking.
- 5Warm tortillas by heating them one by one in a dry skillet for 30 seconds per side, or wrap a stack in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30-45 seconds.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
Substitute the chicken with 1.5 lbs of skirt steak (for beef fajitas) or 1.5 lbs of large shrimp. Adjust cooking times accordingly; shrimp will cook much faster.
VegetarianVegetarian
Replace the chicken with 16 oz of sliced portobello mushrooms or firm tofu. For tofu, press it first to remove excess water before marinating.
Spice It UpSpice It Up
Add one sliced jalapeño along with the bell peppers for a spicy kick, or add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
Low CarbLow-Carb
Serve the fajita mixture in lettuce cups or over a bed of cauliflower rice instead of tortillas.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Lean Protein Powerhouse
Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue, supporting immune function, and promoting a feeling of fullness.
Rich in Vitamins and Antioxidants
Bell peppers are loaded with Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that boosts the immune system. Onions provide additional antioxidants and beneficial plant compounds.
High in Fiber
The onions and bell peppers contribute dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, and supports overall gut health.
Frequently asked questions
A serving of two chicken fajitas, without toppings, contains approximately 450-550 calories. The final count will vary based on the size of your tortillas and the amount and type of toppings you add.