Print

Quick and Flavorful Chicken Fajitas Recipe 30-Minute Dinner Idea

quick flavorful chicken fajitas - featured image

A quick and easy chicken fajitas recipe ready in under 30 minutes, featuring juicy chicken, caramelized bell peppers and onions, and bold spices perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin recommended)
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced (yellow or sweet onion)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
  • 6 small flour or corn tortillas (gluten-free tortillas optional)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • Lime wedges for squeezing
  • Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, avocado slices, or salsa

Instructions

  1. Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips about 1/2-inch thick. Slice the bell peppers and onion into similar-sized strips.
  2. In a mixing bowl, toss the chicken strips with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Optionally marinate for 15 minutes.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, then add the chicken strips in a single layer. Cook 4-5 minutes on one side until browned, then flip and cook another 3-5 minutes until cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil if needed. Add sliced bell peppers and onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the veggies. Stir and cook for another 1-2 minutes to blend flavors and heat through.
  6. Warm the tortillas on a dry skillet or over a gas flame for 2-3 minutes until slightly charred.
  7. Serve the chicken and veggies on warm tortillas. Garnish with chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and optional toppings like sour cream or avocado slices. Enjoy immediately.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure proper searing. Slice chicken and vegetables uniformly for even cooking. Use fresh spices for best flavor. Let cooked chicken rest briefly before combining with veggies. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if chicken looks dry while reheating. Warm tortillas just before serving for best taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken fajitas, quick dinner, 30-minute recipe, easy fajitas, weeknight meal, Mexican food, healthy dinner