If you’re craving a dish that bursts with vibrant colors and bold flavors but doesn’t keep you in the kitchen all night, you’re going to love this Easy Chicken Fajitas with Bell Peppers and Onions Recipe. Picture tender, juicy chicken strips perfectly seasoned and sizzling alongside sweet bell peppers and onions, all wrapped up in warm tortillas. It’s the kind of meal that feels both special and effortlessly simple, perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress without stress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows many small bowls with different ingredients neatly arranged on a white marbled surface. Starting from the top right, there is a stack of yellow corn tortillas on a white plate. To the left of it, there is a small glass of white sauce and a green bowl with sliced green bell peppers. Below those, there is a white bowl with light brown liquid, a small bowl with salt, and another small bowl with lime wedges on a black dish. In the middle row, moving left, there are dark brown bowls with raw sliced chicken and sliced white onions. On the far left, a larger green bowl contains shredded green lettuce. Along the bottom row, from left to right, there are small bowls with ground spices in brown, a glass bowl with white creamy sauce, another bowl with red powder, a clear glass bowl with shredded orange cheese, a small bowl with a creamy white liquid, and a small glass bowl with diced red tomatoes. The whole setup is well lit with natural light, emphasizing the fresh colors and textures of the ingredients. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are refreshingly straightforward yet each one plays a crucial role in this dish’s success. From the spices that give a smoky warmth to the crisp veggies that add color and crunch, every item on the list contributes to making these fajitas a true flavor sensation.

1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Sliced into strips for quick and even cooking.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds moisture and helps the spices cling to the chicken.
1 teaspoon chili powder: Brings a smoky, mild heat that defines fajitas.
1 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy depth to the seasoning mix.
1 teaspoon paprika: Gives a sweet smokiness and beautiful color.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a subtle tangy aroma without overpowering.
½ teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory profile of the dish.
½ teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors and seasons the chicken perfectly.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle bite to round out the spices.
3 bell peppers (any color): Sliced to add sweetness, vibrant colors, and crunch.
1 large onion: Sliced to caramelize lightly alongside the peppers.
Juice of 1 lime: Offers zesty brightness that lifts the entire dish.
Fresh cilantro (optional): A fresh herb garnish that adds a green, fragrant finish.
Flour or corn tortillas: To wrap it all up and make every bite satisfying.

How to Make Easy Chicken Fajitas with Bell Peppers and Onions Recipe

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by tossing your chicken strips in a large bowl with olive oil and all the spices—chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This simple mix coats every strip with the perfect blend of smoky, savory goodness that will cook up beautifully in the pan.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add your seasoned chicken. Let it cook undisturbed for a bit so it can get a lovely sear, then stir occasionally for 5 to 7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Once done, remove it from your skillet and set it aside. Pro tip: a cast iron pan will give you an even better sear and enhance the flavor.

Step 3: Sauté Bell Peppers and Onions

In that same skillet, toss in your sliced bell peppers and onions. Cook them for about 4 to 5 minutes until they’re tender-crisp with a touch of char. This step is where the veggies keep their bright colors and add a wonderful crunch that contrasts the succulent chicken.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Return the cooked chicken strips to the skillet with the veggies. Squeeze fresh lime juice over everything and toss gently to combine. Let the mixture cook together for an extra 1 to 2 minutes so the flavors marry perfectly before you take it off the heat.

How to Serve Easy Chicken Fajitas with Bell Peppers and Onions Recipe

Easy Chicken Fajitas with Bell Peppers and Onions Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A quick sprinkle of fresh cilantro over your fajitas takes the dish up a notch with its bright, herbal freshness. Add dollops of sour cream, guacamole, or a sprinkle of shredded cheese to create a creamy, indulgent balance to those spicy chicken strips.

Side Dishes

Serve these fajitas alongside a simple Mexican rice or black beans for a hearty meal. A crisp garden salad or a refreshing corn salsa also complements the fajitas beautifully, adding layers of texture and flavor to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or casual gathering, serve the chicken and veggies family-style with warmed tortillas, letting everyone build their own fajitas. Or get playful by turning it into a fajita bowl over fluffy rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover chicken fajitas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will deepen overnight, making them just as delicious the next day.

Freezing

To freeze, place the cooked chicken and sautéed vegetables in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheat your leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat to keep the chicken juicy and the vegetables crisp. You can also microwave with a damp paper towel covering the fajitas to lock in moisture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more richness and stay juicy. Just slice them into strips and follow the same seasoning and cooking steps.

What if I don’t have all the spices on hand?

No worries! Chili powder, cumin, and paprika are the essentials. If you’re missing garlic or onion powder, you can substitute with fresh garlic and onions for a slightly different but still delicious result.

Are these fajitas gluten-free?

Yes, especially if you use corn tortillas instead of flour. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this recipe a great option for gluten-sensitive friends.

Can I meal prep these fajitas?

Definitely! Prep the chicken and veggies ahead and store them separately. When ready to eat, reheat and assemble with fresh tortillas and your favorite toppings.

How can I make the fajitas spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix or serve with a spicy salsa or jalapeños on the side for an extra kick.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Chicken Fajitas with Bell Peppers and Onions Recipe is one of my go-to meals when I want something quick, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing. The combination of juicy chicken and crisp veggies wrapped in soft tortillas just hits all the right notes. I highly encourage you to give this recipe a try—you might find it becoming a staple in your home as it has in mine!

Easy Chicken Fajitas with Bell Peppers and Onions Recipe