Chicken Fajitas: A Quick, Flavorful, and Fun Family Dinner

Fajitas Are a Fun Family Favorite

When there are little kids at our family dinners, you can bet fajitas will be on the menu. There’s something so joyful about these colorful, build-your-own bundles of deliciousness. The vibrant reds, yellows, and greens of the bell peppers make the whole spread look like a rainbow on your plate. And the best part? Everyone gets to join in the fun of assembling their own fajitas just the way they like them. Whether the kids are loading up on extra cheese or sneaking in a few more veggies, it’s a meal that’s as interactive as it is tasty. We crank up some lively tunes, maybe even indulge in a margarita or two for the adults, and dive into this simple yet satisfying dish that never fails to bring smiles around the table.

Did You Know?

Fajitas originated in the 1930s in Texas, when Mexican ranch workers were given the less desirable cuts of beef as part of their pay. They would marinate the meat to tenderize it and cook it over an open fire. Over time, fajitas have evolved and now include various proteins, such as chicken and shrimp, making them a versatile and beloved dish in Tex-Mex cuisine.

Recipe:
Yield: 4 servings (2 fajitas per person)

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or grapeseed oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fajita seasoning mix
• 8 small flour tortillas
• 1/2 cup salsa
• 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese

Instructions:

Heat Oil:
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Personal Tip: Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken to get a nice sear on the meat.

Cook Chicken:
Add chicken and cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
Personal Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to keep the chicken from steaming.

Add Vegetables:
Add bell peppers and onion. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, until tender-crisp.
Personal Tip: Keep the veggies slightly crisp for a fresh, crunchy texture in your fajitas.

Add Garlic and Seasoning:
Add garlic and fajita seasoning mix, and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
Personal Tip: Stir frequently to evenly coat the chicken and veggies with the seasoning.

Warm Tortillas:
Warm tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat.
Personal Tip: Wrap the tortillas in a clean kitchen towel after warming to keep them soft and pliable.

Assemble Fajitas:
Place chicken and vegetable mixture on tortillas, and top with salsa, lettuce, and cheese.
Personal Tip: Serve all the toppings on the table so everyone can customize their fajitas to their liking.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories, 200; Protein, 18g; Carbohydrates, 25g; Sugars, 3g; Total Fat, 8g; Saturated Fat, 2g; Sodium, 500mg; Fiber, 3g

Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money

1. Prep Ahead: Slice your chicken and vegetables ahead of time. This makes cooking faster and easier, especially on busy nights.
2. Homemade Fajita Seasoning: Making your own fajita seasoning can be more economical and allows you to control the ingredients. Combine chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
3. Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever vegetables you have on hand. Zucchini, mushrooms, and even thinly sliced carrots can be great additions.
4. Bulk Buy Chicken: Purchase chicken breasts in bulk and freeze portions for later use. This can save money and ensures you always have chicken ready for meals.
5. Stretch the Meal: Add more vegetables to the fajita mix to make the meal go further without increasing the cost significantly.
6. Homemade Salsa: Fresh homemade salsa can be more cost-effective and flavorful than store-bought. Combine tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeños.
7. Warm Tortillas Efficiently: Warm multiple tortillas at once by wrapping them in aluminum foil and heating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
8. Use Leftovers: Leftover chicken and veggies can be used in salads, quesadillas, or even as a topping for baked potatoes.
9. Control Sodium: Be mindful of the sodium content in your fajita seasoning and tortillas. Opt for low-sodium options when available.
10. Add Toppings: Enhance the flavor of your fajitas with additional toppings like guacamole, sour cream, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice. These extras can elevate the dish without adding much cost.

What Makes a Great Fajita?

A great fajita starts with fresh, high-quality ingredients and the right balance of flavors. Tender, well-seasoned meat combined with colorful, crisp vegetables is key. The tortilla should be soft yet sturdy enough to hold the fillings. But perhaps the most important element is the fun factor—letting everyone build their own fajita with their favorite toppings makes the meal interactive and enjoyable. The combination of textures, from the crunch of the veggies to the creaminess of the toppings, adds to the overall satisfaction of this dish.