Introduction
Fajita tacos are a delicious and versatile dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine to your table. With marinated chicken, colorful vegetables, and a variety of toppings, these tacos are not only satisfying but also fun to prepare and share with family or friends. In this recipe, you will learn how to make delicious fajita tacos using simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast
2 tablespoons fajita seasoning
2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or avocado)
Juice of 1 lime
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 sweet yellow onion, sliced
8 small flour tortillas
Shredded lettuce
Shredded Mexican blend cheese
Sour cream
Salsa
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Directions
1. Slice the chicken breast into thin strips.
2. In a bowl, combine the chicken strips with 1 tablespoon of oil, fajita seasoning, and the juice of half a lime. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
3. Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink.
5. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers and onion. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
7. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Squeeze the remaining half of the lime over the mixture and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.
8. Warm the flour tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until soft and pliable.
9. Assemble the tacos by placing a portion of the chicken and vegetable mixture onto each tortilla.
10. Top with shredded lettuce, shredded Mexican blend cheese, sour cream, salsa, and fresh cilantro as desired.
11. Serve immediately and enjoy your fajita tacos.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Slice Chicken Breast
Slice the chicken breast into thin strips.
Marinate Chicken
In a bowl, combine the chicken strips with 1 tablespoon of oil, fajita seasoning, and the juice of half a lime. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
Heat Skillet
Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook Chicken
Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink.
Set Aside Chicken
Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Cook Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers and onion. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
Combine Chicken and Vegetables
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Squeeze the remaining half of the lime over the mixture and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.
Warm Tortillas
Warm the flour tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until soft and pliable.
Assemble Tacos
Assemble the tacos by placing a portion of the chicken and vegetable mixture onto each tortilla.
Top Tacos
Top with shredded lettuce, shredded Mexican blend cheese, sour cream, salsa, and fresh cilantro as desired.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately and enjoy your fajita tacos.
Notes
Choosing Chicken
Boneless, skinless chicken breast is recommended for a lean option, but chicken thighs can be used for a richer flavor.
Vegetable Options
Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for additional flavor and texture.
Storage Tips
Leftover chicken and vegetable mixture can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Customizing Toppings
Customize your tacos with additional toppings like diced tomatoes, avocado, or jalapeños based on your preference.
Cook techniques
Slicing Chicken
Slice the boneless, skinless chicken breast into thin strips to ensure even cooking and better flavor absorption from the seasoning.
Marinating
Combine chicken with oil, fajita seasoning, and lime juice to create a marinade. Allowing the chicken to sit in this mixture enhances its flavor.
Cooking Chicken
Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat before adding the marinated chicken. Cook until it’s no longer pink, stirring occasionally for even cooking.
Cooking Vegetables
After removing the chicken, use the same skillet to cook sliced bell peppers and onions. This method adds flavor from the chicken remnants and gives the vegetables a nice char.
Combining Ingredients
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables and add lime juice. This step melds the flavors together and ensures everything is heated through.
Warming Tortillas
Warm flour tortillas in a skillet or microwave until they are soft and pliable, making them easier to fold and fill.
Assembling Tacos
Place a portion of the chicken and vegetable mixture onto each tortilla, then add desired toppings for a flavorful finish.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used as a flavorful alternative to chicken breast in this recipe.
What can I substitute for fajita seasoning?
If you don’t have fajita seasoning, you can mix chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika for a similar flavor.
Can I make this recipe without oil?
While oil helps with cooking and flavor, you can use a non-stick skillet or cooking spray as a lower-fat alternative.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or corn for additional flavor and texture.
What are some good toppings for fajita tacos?
Toppings can include jalapeños, guacamole, pico de gallo, or diced avocados for extra freshness and flavor.
Conclusion
Indulging in homemade fajita tacos provides a delightful and satisfying experience that features the vibrant flavors of marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and zesty toppings. This recipe not only highlights the versatility of the ingredients but also brings a fun and interactive dining experience to the table. It’s a perfect meal for gatherings, family dinners, or a simple weeknight dinner that will surely please everyone’s palate.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken Fajita Quesadillas
Transform your fajita ingredients into loaded quesadillas by layering the chicken and vegetable mixture between two tortillas with cheese, then grill until crispy.
Chicken Fajita Bowl
Create a delicious bowl by serving the chicken and veggies over a bed of rice or quinoa, topped with all your favorite fajita toppings.
Vegetarian Fajitas
Swap the chicken for a mix of grilled zucchini, mushrooms, and beans, seasoned with the same fajita spices, for a delightful vegetarian option.
Fajita Salad
Turn your fajitas into a fresh salad by mixing the chicken and vegetables on a bed of greens, and topping with avocado and a zesty lime vinaigrette.
Fajita Stuffed Peppers
Stuff halved bell peppers with the chicken and vegetable mixture, then bake until the peppers are tender for a nutritious and filling dish.
Fajita Pizza
Use the chicken and veggies as toppings for a pizza crust, drizzled with salsa and cheese before baking for a fun twist on fajitas.
Breakfast Fajitas
Incorporate scrambled eggs into your fajita mix for a hearty breakfast wrap, completed with all the usual toppings in a tortilla.
