Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas
Chicken, peppers, and onions roasted with fajita spices, served with tortillas.
For 2 servings
3 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Slice the chicken breast into thin, even strips.
- b.Cut the red and green bell peppers and onion into similar-sized slices.
- c.Toss the chicken and vegetables with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and salt in a large bowl.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Spread the seasoned chicken and vegetables in a single layer on a large sheet pan.
- b.Roast at 220C/425F for 20 minutes.
- c.Stir the mixture halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.
TIPEnsure the pan is not overcrowded so the vegetables roast and caramelize rather than steam. - 3
Step 3
- a.Squeeze fresh lime juice over the hot chicken and vegetables.
- b.Warm the whole wheat tortillas in the oven or a dry skillet.
- c.Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, don't overcrowd the pan. Use two sheet pans if necessary to give everything space to brown.
- 2Slice the chicken and vegetables to a similar thickness to promote even cooking.
- 3For extra char and flavor, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- 4Warm your tortillas by wrapping them in foil and placing them in the oven during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- 5For a deeper flavor, allow the chicken and vegetables to marinate in the oil, lime juice, and spices for at least 30 minutes before roasting.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein
Substitute chicken with 1.5 lbs of flank steak (sliced against the grain) or large shrimp. Adjust cooking time accordingly; shrimp will cook much faster (about 8-10 minutes).
VegetableVegetable
Add other vegetables like sliced zucchini, mushrooms, or corn kernels to the sheet pan for more variety and nutrients.
Spice LevelSpice Level
For a spicier kick, add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix, or include a sliced jalapeño on the sheet pan.
VegetarianVegetarian
Make it vegetarian by swapping the chicken for a block of extra-firm tofu (pressed and cubed), sliced portobello mushrooms, or a can of black beans (rinsed and drained, add in the last 10 minutes).
Why this is on our healthy list.
Lean Protein Powerhouse
Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, which is crucial for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
Rich in Vitamins & Antioxidants
The colorful array of bell peppers provides a high dose of Vitamin C, an antioxidant that boosts the immune system, and Vitamin A, which is important for vision and cell growth.
Heart-Healthy Fats
This recipe uses olive oil, which is rich in monounsaturated fats. These healthy fats can help reduce bad cholesterol levels (LDL) and lower the risk of heart disease.
High in Fiber
Onions and bell peppers are good sources of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, and contributes to a healthy gut microbiome.
Frequently asked questions
A typical serving of the chicken and vegetable mixture (about 1.5 cups) contains approximately 380-450 calories. This does not include tortillas or toppings like cheese, sour cream, or guacamole, which will add to the final calorie count.
