Looking for a quick and delicious dinner option that’s both nutritious and satisfying? These Easy High Protein Chicken Fajitas are just what you need for those hectic weekday evenings. Packed with lean chicken and vibrant veggies, this dish is not only a breeze to prepare but also a hit with the whole family. Get ready to enjoy a flavorful meal without the fuss!
Steps
- Begin by slicing the chicken breasts and vegetables into thin strips. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes to create a seasoning blend.
- Heat one tablespoon of avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced bell peppers and onions, season with half of the spice mixture, and cook for about 5 minutes until they are just tender. Remove the cooked vegetables from the skillet and set them aside.
- Add the remaining oil to the skillet and place the chicken strips in it. Season the chicken with the rest of the spice mix, and stir-fry for around 4 minutes until almost fully cooked.
- Return the cooked vegetables to the skillet with the chicken. Stir everything together for an additional 1-2 minutes until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the dish is heated through.
- Serve immediately, optionally topping with salsa, guacamole, sour cream, and/or shredded cheese. You can enjoy the fajitas in bowls, spoon them into warm tortillas, or serve in lettuce cups.
Ingredients
- 3 medium bell peppers, thinly sliced, or 1 pound of frozen sliced peppers
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into strips
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 ½ tablespoons cold water
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1452 kcal | Carbohydrates: 44 g | Protein: 212 g | Fat: 40 g | Saturated Fat: 8 g | Sodium: 2064 mg | Fiber: 12 g | Sugar: 12 g
FAQ
- What are fajitas?
- Fajitas are a popular Tex-Mex dish featuring marinated and grilled strips of meat, such as chicken or beef, served with cooked onions and peppers. They are typically accompanied by soft tortillas, which diners can use to wrap the flavorful meat and vegetables.
- What toppings are commonly used for fajitas?
- Common toppings for fajitas include sour cream, salsa, guacamole, and shredded cheese, allowing you to customize your meal to your taste.
- Is marinating the chicken necessary?
- Marinating the chicken is optional. It can make the chicken more tender, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step. The fajitas will still be flavorful and juicy.
- What are some alternative ways to serve chicken fajitas?
- While traditionally served in flour tortillas, chicken fajitas can also be enjoyed in lettuce cups or over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. This versatility allows you to enjoy them in various ways.
- How should I store any leftover chicken fajitas?
- Leftover chicken fajitas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, cover and microwave them at 50% power to maintain their juiciness.
Tips
- To save time, consider using frozen pre-sliced peppers. Although they release some liquid, you can easily thicken the dish with a cornstarch slurry if desired.
- If you prefer a more tender chicken, marinate it by mixing half the spices with olive oil and lime juice, and let it rest in the fridge for two hours.
- For added flavor, experiment with different spices such as onion powder and dried thyme in addition to the main seasoning mix.
- When reheating leftovers, do so in the microwave at 50% power to maintain the dish’s moisture and texture.
Equipment
- Large, deep skillet – Essential for cooking the vegetables and chicken.
- Slotted spoon – Useful for removing the cooked vegetables from the skillet.
- Resealable bag – Needed if choosing to marinate the chicken.
