Chicken Fajitas – A Sizzling Family Favorite

Few things say “family dinner night” quite like a sizzling skillet of Chicken Fajitas. The sound of tender chicken searing, the smell of peppers and onions caramelizing, and the joy of building your own tortilla wrap at the table—it’s cozy, fun, and endlessly satisfying.

Skillet of chicken fajitas with peppers and onions served with tortillas

This recipe brings restaurant-style fajitas straight into your kitchen with simple pantry ingredients and easy steps. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it’s a dish that invites everyone to dig in, share, and enjoy together.

Recipe Info

FieldInfo
CategoryDinner / Tex-Mex
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Servings4 servings
Calories~380 kcal per serving

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into thin strips)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 8 flour tortillas, warmed
  • Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, shredded cheese, fresh cilantro

Step-By-Step Instructions

  1. Season the chicken
    In a mixing bowl, combine chicken strips with 2 tablespoons olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Toss until evenly coated.
  2. Cook the chicken
    Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté the vegetables
    In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Toss in the bell peppers and onion. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring often, until softened and slightly caramelized.
  4. Combine and heat through
    Return the chicken to the skillet with the peppers and onions. Stir together and cook for 1–2 more minutes to blend flavors.
  5. Serve & enjoy
    Spoon the sizzling chicken and veggies into warm tortillas. Add your favorite toppings and enjoy right away.

Helpful Notes & Tips

  • Thin slices cook faster: Slice chicken and vegetables thinly for quicker cooking and perfect texture.
  • Tortilla tip: Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or wrap them in foil and heat in the oven for extra soft results.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet.
  • Spice control: Use mild chili powder for less heat, or add cayenne/red pepper flakes for more kick.

Recipe Variations

  • Protein swap: Try shrimp, steak strips, or tofu for a different twist.
  • Veggie fajitas: Go meatless by doubling the peppers and adding mushrooms or zucchini.
  • Lighten it up: Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt, or use whole-wheat tortillas for a healthier option.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with Mexican rice or refried beans for a fuller meal.
  • Add fresh toppings like pico de gallo, guacamole, or shredded lettuce.
  • Serve with a side of chips and salsa for a fiesta feel.

Conclusion

These Chicken Fajitas are more than just dinner—they’re an experience. With sizzling flavors, colorful veggies, and customizable toppings, this recipe turns an ordinary weeknight into something special. Gather around the table, load up your tortillas, and savor the cozy, family-style joy of homemade fajitas.