Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas: An Easy Weeknight Dinner Recipe

Sheet pan chicken fajitas are a quick, easy, and delicious weeknight meal that requires minimal cleanup. This recipe uses simple ingredients and comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy families. Say goodbye to standing over a hot stove and hello to flavorful, customizable fajitas!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Cleanup: Everything cooks on one sheet pan, minimizing dishes.
• Quick and Convenient: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Customizable: Adjust the vegetables and spices to your liking.
• Healthy and Delicious: Packed with protein and fresh vegetables.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Leftovers are great for lunch or another dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal, but you can also use chicken thighs.
• Bell Peppers: Use a mix of colors (red, yellow, orange, green) for visual appeal and varied flavor.
• Onion: A yellow or white onion works best.
• Olive Oil: Used to coat the vegetables and chicken for even cooking.
• Fajita Seasoning: You can use a store-bought blend or make your own (recipe below).
• Lime Juice: Adds a bright, citrusy flavor.
• Tortillas: Flour or corn tortillas, depending on your preference.
• Toppings: Sour cream, guacamole, salsa, shredded cheese, cilantro, etc.

Homemade Fajita Seasoning (Optional)

If you prefer to make your own fajita seasoning, here’s a simple recipe:

• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Mix all ingredients together in a small bowl. Store in an airtight container.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Sheet Pan: A large sheet pan is essential for cooking everything at once.
• Cutting Board: For chopping the vegetables and chicken.
• Knife: A sharp knife for slicing.
• Mixing Bowl: For tossing the chicken and vegetables with the seasoning.
• Tongs: For transferring the fajitas to tortillas.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick. This ensures they cook quickly and evenly.
3. Place the sliced chicken in a mixing bowl.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Slice the bell peppers into strips, similar in size to the chicken.
2. Slice the onion into thin strips.
3. Add the bell peppers and onion to the mixing bowl with the chicken.

Step 3: Season the Chicken and Vegetables

1. Drizzle the chicken and vegetables with olive oil.
2. Sprinkle the fajita seasoning over the mixture.
3. Toss everything together until well coated. Make sure the chicken and vegetables are evenly seasoned.

Step 4: Arrange on the Sheet Pan

1. Spread the chicken and vegetables in a single layer on the sheet pan. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can steam the ingredients instead of roasting them. If necessary, use two sheet pans.

Step 5: Bake the Fajitas

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender-crisp. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
2. Halfway through baking, use tongs to toss the chicken and vegetables, ensuring even cooking.

Step 6: Add Lime Juice

1. Remove the sheet pan from the oven.
2. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the cooked chicken and vegetables. This adds a bright, zesty flavor that complements the fajita seasoning.

Step 7: Warm the Tortillas

1. While the fajitas are baking, warm the tortillas. You can warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few seconds per side, in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel, or in the oven wrapped in foil.

Step 8: Assemble and Serve

1. Place the warm tortillas on a plate.
2. Fill each tortilla with the cooked chicken and vegetables.
3. Add your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, shredded cheese, and cilantro.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

• Use Different Proteins: You can substitute the chicken with shrimp, steak, or tofu. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or corn.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the fajita seasoning or include sliced jalapeños on the sheet pan.
• Marinate the Chicken: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of lime juice, olive oil, and fajita seasoning for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
• Serve with Rice and Beans: For a more complete meal, serve the fajitas with a side of rice and beans.
• Meal Prep: Prepare the chicken and vegetables ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply toss them with the seasoning and bake.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables, or use plant-based protein alternatives.

Serving Suggestions

Sheet pan chicken fajitas are a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas:

• Classic Fajitas: Serve in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings.
• Fajita Bowls: Serve over rice with toppings for a deconstructed fajita bowl.
• Fajita Salad: Toss the cooked chicken and vegetables with lettuce, avocado, and a lime vinaigrette.
• Fajita Quesadillas: Fill tortillas with cheese and the cooked chicken and vegetables, then grill until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are golden brown.
• Fajita Nachos: Layer tortilla chips with cheese, cooked chicken and vegetables, and your favorite nacho toppings.

Make Ahead and Storage Instructions

Make Ahead: You can slice the chicken and vegetables up to 24 hours in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply toss them with the seasoning and bake.

Storage: Store leftover cooked chicken and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Freezing: While not ideal, you can freeze cooked chicken and vegetables. Allow them to cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

Nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients and serving size. Here’s a general estimate per serving (without toppings):

• Calories: 350-450
• Protein: 30-40g
• Fat: 15-25g
• Carbohydrates: 20-30g

This recipe is a great way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun party dish, sheet pan chicken fajitas are sure to be a hit! Enjoy customizing this recipe with your favorite ingredients and toppings.

FAQ

Q: Can I use frozen vegetables?
A: While fresh vegetables are preferred, you can use frozen bell peppers and onions. Thaw them completely and pat them dry before using to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Q: Can I use different types of bell peppers?
A: Absolutely! A mix of red, yellow, orange, and green bell peppers will add visual appeal and a variety of flavors. Choose your favorite combinations.

Q: How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
A: Slice the chicken into thin strips and make sure it’s evenly coated with olive oil and fajita seasoning. Avoid overcooking the chicken by checking its internal temperature with a meat thermometer.

Q: Can I cook the fajitas on the grill?
A: Yes, you can cook the fajitas on the grill. Place the chicken and vegetables in a grill basket or on a sheet of aluminum foil. Grill over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

Q: What are some good toppings for fajitas?
A: The possibilities are endless! Some popular toppings include sour cream, guacamole, salsa, shredded cheese, cilantro, diced tomatoes, onions, and jalapeños.

Q: How do I warm tortillas?
A: There are several ways to warm tortillas: you can warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few seconds per side, in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel, or in the oven wrapped in foil.

Q: Can I make this recipe vegan?
A: Yes, simply omit the chicken and use plant-based protein alternatives like tofu or tempeh. You can also add more vegetables to make it a hearty and filling meal.