Spice up your weeknights with this incredibly flavorful and easy grilled fajita chicken recipe! Forget takeout – this homemade version is healthier, tastier, and surprisingly quick to prepare. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Get ready to experience the vibrant flavors of sizzling chicken and perfectly charred peppers and onions, all wrapped up in warm tortillas. It's a delicious dish that’s both satisfying and healthy.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch strips
- 1 large bell pepper (any color), sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 12-15 small flour tortillas, warmed
- Your favorite fajita toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, salsa, guacamole, sour cream, shredded cheese
Instructions:
Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken strips with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.
Grill the Chicken and Vegetables:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers or simply place it directly on the grill grates.
- Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it's cooked through and has beautiful grill marks. Remember to adjust cooking time based on the thickness of your chicken strips.
- Add the sliced bell peppers and onions to the grill during the last 5-7 minutes of the chicken's cooking time. Grill until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Assemble Your Fajitas:
- Remove the cooked chicken and vegetables from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
- Warm your tortillas according to package directions (you can grill them briefly for a smoky flavor!).
- Fill each tortilla with the grilled chicken and vegetables. Add your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for the Best Grilled Fajita Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the grill: This will lower the temperature and lead to steaming instead of grilling. Work in batches if necessary.
- Use a meat thermometer: Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to add more or less cayenne pepper depending on your preferred heat level.
- Get creative with vegetables: Experiment with other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or asparagus.
Variations:
- Shrimp Fajitas: Substitute the chicken with shrimp for a lighter, quicker meal. Shrimp cooks much faster, so adjust the grilling time accordingly.
- Steak Fajitas: Use thinly sliced steak instead of chicken for a richer, more decadent dish.
- Vegetarian Fajitas: Grill a mix of your favorite vegetables like portobello mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 350-450 (depending on toppings)
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 25-35g
This easy and delicious grilled fajita chicken recipe is perfect for a healthy and satisfying weeknight meal. The vibrant flavors and customizable toppings make it a crowd-pleaser, no matter the occasion. Enjoy!