Save This skillet chicken fajitas recipe brings Tex-Mex comfort straight to your kitchen with juicy strips of chicken, a rainbow of peppers, and a cool, tangy lime crema. It is a go-to dish for nights when I want a vibrant meal that feels special but does not take all night to pull together.
My family first tasted these on a rainy night when we all craved something cheerful and cozy. Since then, this recipe has become our official Friday fiesta.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: sliced thin for fast and juicy cooking. Pick fresh pieces that feel firm and pink
- Olive oil: brings richness and helps everything brown. Opt for cold-pressed extra virgin for flavor and health
- Red yellow and green bell peppers: offer sweetness and crunch. Go for glossy skins and heavy peppers
- Red onion: gives a deep flavor and beautiful color contrast. Pick one that feels dense and avoids bruising
- Fresh garlic: brings punchy flavor. Plump and unblemished cloves taste best
- Chili powder: a warm foundation for that fajita kick. Use a fresh, smoky blend for best taste
- Ground cumin: adds earthiness. Try toasting seeds and grinding fresh for even more aroma
- Smoked paprika: wakes up every other flavor. Spanish varieties give a hint of woodsy depth
- Dried oregano: layers subtle herbal notes. Rub between fingers to release the oils before adding
- Salt and black pepper: balance everything out. Use kosher salt for brightness and freshly cracked pepper for zing
- Lime juice: perks up both the chicken and the sauce. Pick heavy limes that feel juicy
- Sour cream: creates a cool lime crema. If possible, reach for full-fat for creaminess
- Fresh cilantro: gives green freshness to both crema and garnish. Bright leaves without wilt are ideal
- Flour or corn tortillas: form the blanket for your filling. Warm them for best flavor and flexibility
- Lime wedges and extra cilantro: finish for brightness and color
Instructions
- Mix the Fajita Spice Blend:
- Combine chili powder cumin smoked paprika oregano salt and freshly cracked black pepper in a small bowl. Mixing thoroughly now means every bite is balanced
- Season and Marinate the Chicken:
- Place sliced chicken in a large bowl. Drizzle with half the olive oil and toss with the spice blend. Coat every piece to help flavor soak in and set aside while you heat the skillet
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat the rest of the olive oil in a wide skillet over medium-high. Once shimmering add the seasoned chicken in a single layer. Cook for about six minutes so the pieces turn golden with crisp edges. Stir occasionally. Remove chicken once cooked through to avoid drying out
- Sauté the Peppers and Onion:
- In the same pan add the sliced red yellow and green peppers plus red onion. Keep heat at medium-high. Stir often until everything softens and gains charred edges about seven minutes. This builds sweet smoky flavor. Stir in minced garlic and cook briefly just until fragrant
- Combine Chicken and Vegetables:
- Return cooked chicken to the pan. Squeeze over fresh lime juice. Toss everything together letting the mixture heat for another two minutes so the flavors meld
- Make the Lime Crema:
- While the skillet finishes combine sour cream lime zest juice chopped cilantro and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Stir until completely smooth for a tangy drizzle
- Warm the Tortillas:
- In a dry skillet or wrapped in foil in the oven gently warm your tortillas until they are steamy and flexible. This makes filling and folding easier
- Assemble and Serve:
- Divide the chicken and peppers between warm tortillas. Drizzle generously with lime crema and scatter with cilantro leaves and extra lime wedges for squeezing
Save The smoked paprika is my secret weapon here. Its warmth lifts the dish above your average chicken and peppers. One of my favorite memories is making a double batch for my sister's birthday and watching every tortilla disappear with happy smiles.
Storage Tips
Cool leftovers completely before packing them up. Store chicken and vegetables separately from the lime crema. Airtight glass containers keep everything fresh and help the flavors deepen overnight. Leftovers reheat well in a skillet with a splash of water. Use up within three days
Ingredient Substitutions
If you prefer a lighter sauce swap Greek yogurt for the sour cream in your lime crema. Sometimes I sprinkle extra cheese or a dash of hot sauce inside the tortillas for extra zing. You can also use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer result or toss in sliced zucchini for bonus veg.
Serving Suggestions
Set up a DIY fajita bar so everyone can stuff their own tortillas. Add bowls of guacamole shredded cheese and spicy pickled onions. These chicken fajitas are great with rice beans or even a fresh green salad on the side. A pitcher of sparkling water with lime ties everything together
Cultural Context
Fajitas are classic Tex-Mex and started with humble beginnings as ranch hands' meals cooked over campfires. The key is that irresistible sizzling skillet action and layering simple ingredients with just the right seasonings for flavor and comfort.
Save Try these easy chicken fajitas for a colorful dinner that brings everyone to the table. The zesty lime crema and warm tortillas make every bite bright and fresh.
Your Questions Answered
- → How do I keep the chicken strips juicy?
Use high heat and avoid overcooking. Slice chicken evenly and cook just until lightly browned and cooked through.
- → Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, substitute sour cream in the lime crema with a dairy-free alternative such as coconut yogurt.
- → What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat chicken and vegetables gently in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
- → Are corn tortillas necessary for gluten-free?
Yes, choose corn tortillas to keep the meal gluten-free and always check packaging for allergen info.
- → Can I add extra vegetables?
Absolutely! Zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach can be sautéed with the bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
- → What else pairs well with this dish?
Try serving with rice, beans, a simple salad, or chips and salsa for a heartier spread.