Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a vibrant, flavorful meal that's both satisfying and surprisingly simple to make? Then look no further! This beef and chicken fajita recipe is your ticket to a delicious and exciting weeknight dinner. It’s a perfect blend of tender marinated meat, colorful bell peppers, and onions, all wrapped in warm tortillas – a true taste of fiesta in your own kitchen! This recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas or healthy meals that don't compromise on taste. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
This recipe makes enough for 4-6 servings.
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Fajitas:
- 1 lb beef sirloin steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 large green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 12-15 small flour tortillas
- Toppings of your choice (see variations below)
Instructions:
Get started:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together all the marinade ingredients.
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced beef and chicken. Pour the marinade over the meat, ensuring it's evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
Cook the Fajitas:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated beef and chicken to the hot skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the meat is cooked through and slightly browned. Remove the meat from the skillet and set aside.
- Add the sliced bell peppers and onions to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Assemble and Serve:
- Warm the tortillas according to package directions. You can warm them in a dry skillet, microwave, or oven.
- Fill each tortilla with the cooked beef and chicken, along with the sautéed peppers and onions.
- Add your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Delicious Fajitas:
- For extra flavor, marinate the meat overnight.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when cooking the meat and vegetables. Work in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- For a smoky flavor, grill the meat and vegetables instead of pan-frying them.
- If you prefer a spicier fajita, add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
Variations:
- Shrimp Fajitas: Substitute 1 lb of shrimp for the beef and chicken. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque.
- Vegetarian Fajitas: Omit the meat and add your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or squash.
- Different Toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Some popular choices include shredded cheese, sour cream, guacamole, salsa, pico de gallo, and shredded lettuce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 400-500 (depending on toppings and meat quantity) Protein: 30-40g Fat: 20-25g Carbohydrates: 30-40g
This beef and chicken fajita recipe offers a delightful balance of flavor and ease. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. It's a fantastic choice for a quick weeknight dinner, a casual get-together, or even a fun family meal. Enjoy the fiesta!