CHICKEN FAJITAS

Chicken fajitas are a classic Tex-Mex dish that combines marinated and seared strips of chicken with vibrant, colorful bell peppers and onions. Served sizzling hot with warm tortillas and a variety of toppings, this dish is both flavorful and fun to assemble. The marinade, which typically includes lime juice, garlic, and spices, infuses the chicken with a zesty kick, while the vegetables add a sweet and smoky depth. Perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering, chicken fajitas are customizable and sure to please everyone at the table. Pair them with guacamole, salsa, and sour cream for a complete and delicious meal.

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

• 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

For the Fajitas:

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 8-10 flour tortillas
• Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, shredded cheese, chopped cilantro

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Add the chicken strips to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off, and cook in the skillet until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover to keep warm.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced bell peppers and onion, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
4. Combine and Heat: Return the chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Toss everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
5. Warm the Tortillas: Warm the flour tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until pliable.
6. Assemble the Fajitas: Serve the chicken and vegetable mixture in the warm tortillas. Top with your choice of sour cream, guacamole, salsa, shredded cheese, and chopped cilantro.

Chicken fajitas are a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion, offering a delicious blend of textures and tastes that everyone will enjoy. Customize with your favorite toppings for a personalized meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!