Skillet Chicken Fajitas

There’s something magical about a sizzling skillet of Skillet Chicken Fajitas that brings everyone to the kitchen. I remember the first time I made these for my friends; the aroma of spiced chicken mingling with sweet onions and vibrant bell peppers filled my home. As we gathered around the table, laughter and deliciousness took over. Each bite was a burst of flavor, and I couldn’t help but smile as I watched everyone devour them. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, Skillet Chicken Fajitas never fail to impress. The combination of tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and warm tortillas is simply irresistible. Plus, they’re quick to whip up, making them perfect for busy days when you still want to enjoy a home-cooked meal. So grab your skillet and let’s dive into this flavorful dish that promises to brighten up any meal!

What to Gather for Skillet Chicken Fajitas

Gathering the right ingredients is essential for making perfect Skillet Chicken Fajitas. Each element plays a role in creating that signature flavor profile that you’ll crave again and again. The key players in this dish include juicy chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and flavorful spices. Combining these ingredients not only creates a delicious meal but also ensures a colorful presentation on your plate.

• 3 tablespoons cooking oil (divided) – This is essential for cooking and helps give that nice sear to the chicken and vegetables.
• 2 cloves garlic (finely minced) – Adds a wonderful aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• 2 teaspoons ground cilantro – Provides a fresh and zesty note that balances the rich flavors.
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin – A warming spice that adds depth and earthiness to the marinade.
• 1-2 teaspoons ground cayenne pepper (to taste) – Adds a kick of heat that can be adjusted according to your preference.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Brings a subtle herbal flavor that complements the other spices.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt – Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients.
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The main protein that soaks up all the delicious marinade and cooks to perfection.
• 2 red onions (sliced into strips) – Adds sweetness and color to the dish, making it visually appealing.
• 2 bell peppers (any color, sliced into strips) – Provides a crunch and sweetness that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
• fresh lime juice (optional) – A squeeze of lime juice at the end adds brightness and acidity to the fajitas.
• 8 (6-inch) flour tortillas – The perfect vehicle for all the delicious fillings; warm them up to make them soft and pliable.

How to Cook Skillet Chicken Fajitas

Cooking Skillet Chicken Fajitas is a straightforward and enjoyable process. The key is to follow each step carefully to ensure the chicken is juicy and the vegetables are perfectly tender. Let’s get started on this flavorful journey!

1. In a plastic bag, combine 2 tablespoons of cooking oil, garlic, ground cilantro, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, dried oregano, kosher salt, and mix well to create a marinade. This step is crucial as the spices will deeply infuse the chicken, making it flavorful.
2. Next, place the 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the bag, ensuring they’re fully coated with the marinade. Let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 20 to 30 minutes, but if you have time, letting it sit for up to 2 hours will intensify the flavors.
3. After marinating, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. The skillet should be hot enough that you can feel the heat radiating from it, which helps achieve that perfect sear.
4. Add the sliced onions and sliced bell peppers to the skillet. Cook them for about 7 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re softened and a little browned. This caramelization enhances their natural sweetness and adds a beautiful color.
5. Once the vegetables are cooked to your liking, remove them from the skillet and set them aside. In the same skillet, add the marinated chicken. You want to pan-fry the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side, or until it achieves a nice golden brown color and is cooked through.
6. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period is important as it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy bite.
7. After resting, slice the chicken into strips. Return the cooked vegetables to the skillet just to re-warm them for a minute.
8. Add the sliced chicken back into the skillet with the vegetables, and gently stir to combine. Taste and add a bit of salt, pepper, and a splash of fresh lime juice if desired. The lime juice brightens the flavors and brings everything together.
9. Finally, serve the chicken and vegetable mixture with warmed flour tortillas. Allow everyone to assemble their own fajitas, creating a fun and interactive meal that everyone will love!

Pro Tips and Tweaks

When making Skillet Chicken Fajitas, there are some great tips to keep in mind for even better results. Here are some ideas to enhance your cooking experience:

• Storage: Store any leftover fajitas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the skillet or microwave.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken and vegetables for up to 2 months. Just thaw and reheat before serving with fresh tortillas.
• Pairing: These fajitas pair beautifully with a side of black beans or a fresh avocado salad for a complete meal.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the marinade to control the heat level. Start with less if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or corn to the mix for added flavor and nutrients.
• Serving Ideas: Serve with toppings like sour cream, salsa, or guacamole to add variety and richness to your fajitas.

Perfect Pairings for Skillet Chicken Fajitas

When it comes to serving Skillet Chicken Fajitas, the options are endless. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

• Fresh Salsas: A chunky tomato salsa or mango salsa adds a refreshing touch that complements the savory chicken.
• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole is a must-have; it adds richness and balances the spices beautifully.
• Side Dishes: Serve with sides like cilantro-lime rice or refried beans for a hearty, fulfilling meal.
• Occasions: These fajitas are perfect for casual weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or game day celebrations.
• Drinks: Pair with a chilled lemonade or iced tea to refresh your palate while enjoying the meal.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store each component separately for optimal freshness. Warm tortillas and fillings just before serving.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Skillet Chicken Fajitas are not just a meal; they’re an experience that brings friends and family together around the table. The vibrant flavors and interactive nature of this dish make it a favorite for any occasion. I encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy the deliciousness that awaits you. It’s a perfect way to add a little spice to your dinner routine and create lasting memories with loved ones!

Skillet Chicken Fajitas

The ultimate comfort food, Skillet Chicken Fajitas combine tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a kick of spices for a quick weeknight dinner. Bursting with flavor and easy to prepare, it’s a must-try for your next meal!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 3 tablespoons Cooking Oil divided
• 2 cloves Garlic finely minced
• 2 teaspoons Ground Cilantro
• 2 teaspoons Ground Cumin
• 1-2 teaspoons Ground Cayenne Pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
• 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
• 4 Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
• 2 Red Onions sliced into strips
• 2 Bell Peppers sliced into strips
• optional Fresh Lime Juice
• 8 (6-inch) Flour Tortillas

Equipment

• Cast Iron Skillet

Method

 

1. In a plastic bag, combine 2 tablespoons of cooking oil, garlic, ground cilantro, ground cumin, ground cayenne pepper, dried oregano, and kosher salt to create a marinade.
2. Place the 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the bag, ensuring they’re fully coated with the marinade. Let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 20 to 30 minutes.
3. Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the sliced onions and sliced bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for about 7 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and browned.
5. Once cooked, remove the vegetables from the skillet and set aside. Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and pan-fry for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing into strips.
7. Return the cooked vegetables to the skillet to re-warm, then add the sliced chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine. Season with fresh lime juice if desired.
8. Serve the chicken and vegetable mixture with warmed flour tortillas for everyone to assemble their own fajitas.

Notes

• Marinate: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 20 minutes for better flavor.
• Skillet Temperature: Ensure the skillet is hot before cooking the chicken.
• Avoid Crowding: Don’t overcrowd the skillet to ensure even cooking.
• Rest Chicken: Let the chicken rest after cooking to retain juices.

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Meet Delilah Moon

We eat with our eyes first, and I strive to capture the energy of our food through photography. I am deeply involved in the cooking process, styling our dishes to show you exactly how appetizing they can be. I hope this recipe inspires you to get creative and confident in your own kitchen.