Description
This Skillet Chicken Fajitas recipe is a quick and flavorful meal featuring tender marinated chicken breasts sautéed with colorful bell peppers and onions, infused with a blend of chili powder, cumin, and lime juice. Perfect for a vibrant weeknight dinner, it comes together in just 30 minutes and serves four.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced thin
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
- 1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano, crushed between palms
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce, or to taste
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 lime, juiced
Vegetables and Cooking
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 small yellow or white onion, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 lime, juiced (for finishing)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken with olive oil, chopped cilantro, chili powder, dried oregano, ground cumin, garlic powder, hot sauce, salt, black pepper, and half the lime juice. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly. Allow it to marinate for 15 to 30 minutes to let the flavors infuse.
- Sauté the Peppers and Onions: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a 12-inch cast iron skillet over high heat. Once hot, add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers, onion, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are caramelized and softened. Remove the peppers and onions from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Cook the Chicken: Add a little more olive oil to the hot skillet. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer and sear undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes to get a nice browning. Stir and continue cooking until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside.
- Combine and Finish: Return the sautéed peppers and onions to the skillet with the chicken. Stir everything together and cook for another minute to meld the flavors. Remove from heat and squeeze the remaining half of the lime over the fajitas. Serve immediately with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings like sour cream, avocado, or salsa.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for 30 minutes enhances flavor and tenderness, but 15 minutes is sufficient if short on time.
- Use a cast iron skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan to ensure even searing and caramelization.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce to control the spice level.
- Serve with warm corn or flour tortillas and optional toppings such as shredded cheese, guacamole, or fresh salsa.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
