Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: This lean protein is perfect for fajitas and cooks quickly.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds moisture and helps the spices adhere to the chicken.
- Juice of 2 limes: The acidity in lime juice tenderizes the chicken while also enhancing the overall flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a savory, aromatic component to the marinade.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: A key spice that provides a warm, earthy flavor to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Adds a mild heat and depth of flavor to the chicken.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Gives the chicken a subtle smokiness.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Adds an extra layer of savory flavor to the marinade.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
For the Fajitas:
- 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced: Adds sweetness and crunch to the fajitas.
- 1 medium onion, sliced: Adds a touch of sweetness and texture to complement the chicken.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the veggies and chicken.
- 8 small flour tortillas: Soft and warm tortillas are the ideal vessel for holding the fajita filling.
Optional Toppings:
- Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole adds a perfect balance to the savory chicken.
- Sour cream: Cool and tangy, sour cream complements the spice of the fajitas.
- Salsa: Fresh and zesty, salsa adds a burst of flavor to the fajitas.
- Shredded cheese: Cheddar, mozzarella, or Mexican blend cheese adds a creamy finish.
- Fresh cilantro: Chopped cilantro adds a bright, fresh note.
- Lime wedges: For a zesty squeeze right before serving.
Instructions
FIRST STEP: MARINATE THE CHICKEN
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes (or up to 1 hour) to allow the chicken to soak in all the flavors.
SECOND STEP: COOK THE CHICKEN
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
THIRD STEP: SAUTÉ THE VEGGIES
- Sauté the Peppers and Onions: In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if necessary, and toss in the sliced bell peppers and onions. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and slightly charred. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
FOURTH STEP: ASSEMBLE THE FAJITAS
- Warm the Tortillas: While the chicken and veggies are cooking, warm the flour tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave. To warm in a skillet, heat a large pan over medium heat and briefly heat each tortilla for about 20-30 seconds per side. Alternatively, wrap the tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds.
- Assemble the Fajitas: Place the warmed tortillas on a serving platter. Divide the sliced chicken and sautéed peppers and onions evenly among the tortillas. Add your favorite toppings like guacamole, salsa, shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime juice.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the fajitas immediately while warm. Enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 30g