Chicken Fajitas with Bell Peppers, Onions, and Tortillas

Chicken fajitas are a delicious Tex-Mex classic that combine juicy chicken strips, colourful bell peppers, and onions in a medley of spices. Served with warm tortillas, this crowd-pleaser is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends. Below is a straightforward recipe that results in flavour-packed fajitas ready to be personalised with your favourite toppings.

Ingredients

• 450g chicken breasts (boneless, skinless), sliced into thin strips
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper (optional for extra colour), sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or olive oil)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chilli powder (mild or hot to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for smoky flavour)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 flour tortillas (warmed)

Optional Additions and Toppings

• Juice of 1 lime (for a citrusy tang)
• Fresh coriander, chopped
• Guacamole or sliced avocado
• Sour cream or Greek yoghurt
• Grated cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
• Tomato salsa or pico de gallo

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl, combine the chicken strips with 1 tablespoon of oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, chilli powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper.
2. Toss thoroughly to coat the chicken, then cover and let it marinate for about 15-20 minutes at room temperature (or longer in the fridge for deeper flavour).

2. Prepare the Vegetables

1. While the chicken is marinating, slice the bell peppers and onion into thin strips.
2. Keep them separate from the chicken to ensure even cooking later.

3. Sear the Chicken

1. Heat a large pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of oil to the pan.
3. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken strips in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
4. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F).
5. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.

4. Sauté the Peppers and Onions

1. In the same pan (add a little more oil if needed), reduce the heat to medium.
2. Add the bell peppers and onions, stirring occasionally for 5-6 minutes or until they begin to soften and gain light char marks.
3. Season lightly with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Combine and Warm Through

1. Return the cooked chicken strips to the pan, mixing them with the sautéed peppers and onions.
2. If you prefer a citrusy zing, squeeze the juice of 1 lime over the mixture.
3. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary (salt, pepper, more chilli powder for heat, etc.).
4. Cook for 1-2 minutes more, just enough to let the flavours blend together.

6. Warm the Tortillas

1. Wrap the flour tortillas in foil and place them in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 5 minutes to make them soft and pliable.
2. Alternatively, heat them in a dry pan over medium heat for 30 seconds per side.

7. Assemble the Fajitas

1. Serve the chicken and vegetable mixture in a large serving bowl or dish.
2. Provide warm tortillas alongside.
3. Let each person fill a tortilla with the chicken-pepper mixture and add their preferred toppings like guacamole, sour cream, grated cheese, or fresh coriander.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Fajitas

• Marinate longer for deeper flavour: If time permits, let the chicken marinate in the fridge for up to 2 hours.
• Slice consistently: Cut the chicken and vegetables into similar thicknesses so they cook evenly.
• Use a hot pan: Ensuring your pan is hot helps create a slight char on the chicken and vegetables, enhancing the overall flavour.
• Experiment with peppers: Use a mix of coloured bell peppers for a vibrant presentation, or add jalapeños for extra spice.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy these Chicken Fajitas with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or charro beans for a satisfying meal. You can also provide a variety of salsas, pickled onions, or hot sauces for those who like a kick of heat.

Dive into this colourful, flavourful Tex-Mex favourite, and savour every bite of tender chicken and sizzling peppers enveloped in soft tortillas. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a festive weekend gathering, Chicken Fajitas with Bell Peppers, Onions, and Tortillas are guaranteed to delight everyone at the table.