Save to Pinterest Chicken fajitas with lime crema is my go-to when I want something colorful and deeply satisfying that comes together quickly. Each bite bursts with peppery-sweet veggies, juicy chicken, and a cooling tang that ties the whole meal together perfectly.
The first time I whipped these up the kids hovered in the kitchen drawn in by the sizzling aroma. Ever since chicken fajitas night has been a midweek highlight in our house.
Ingredients
- Boneless chicken breasts: They cook up moist and tender when cut thinly Look for chicken with a pink sheen and no off odor
- Olive oil: Helps everything caramelize and adds a buttery base Go for extra virgin for best flavor
- Red yellow green bell peppers: Each brings color and sweetness Choose peppers with glossy skin and firm feel
- Red onion: Adds mellow sweetness Slice thin for even cooking
- Garlic: Fresh garlic really pops here Mince fine for best flavor
- Chili powder cumin smoked paprika dried oregano: All the spice warmth you want Use a fresh tin for robust taste
- Salt and ground black pepper: Foundational flavors Taste the mix before coating chicken
- Lime: Adds bright tang Zest before juicing for extra flavor
- Sour cream and lime for crema: Creamy and cooling Choose full fat for a rich texture
- Fresh cilantro: Bright herby touch Chop right before stirring in
- Tortillas: Soft flour or corn both work best Warm before serving for maximum flavor
Instructions
- Mix the Spices
- In a small bowl stir together the chili powder cumin smoked paprika oregano salt and black pepper until everything is evenly distributed This spice blend is the flavor backbone so use the freshest spices you have
- Season the Chicken
- Place the sliced chicken into a large bowl Drizzle with one tablespoon olive oil Sprinkle over all the spice mixture Toss thoroughly with your hands so every strip is well coated Massage the spices in for the best flavor
- Cook the Chicken
- Heat the remaining tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium high When hot add the seasoned chicken in a single layer Let it sear without stirring for a minute to get color then cook tossing often for 5 to 6 minutes until cooked through and golden Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside
- Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet add all the sliced bell peppers and red onion Stir often cooking for 5 to 7 minutes The vegetables should soften and catch a little char Add the minced garlic and cook one more minute You will notice the garlic gets fragrant quickly
- Combine Everything
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet Squeeze the juice of one lime over everything Toss the meat and veggies together for even coating Let it all heat through for another 1 to 2 minutes This step locks in the juices and brings all the flavors together
- Make the Lime Crema
- In a small bowl mix the sour cream with lime zest juice chopped cilantro and a pinch of salt Whisk well until smooth The crema should be thick and bright tasting
- Warm the Tortillas
- While everything cooks heat the tortillas either in a dry skillet or wrapped in foil in a low oven for a few minutes They should be soft and pliable
- Serve
- Fill each warm tortilla with the chicken and vegetable mixture Drizzle generously with lime crema Top with extra cilantro and a wedge of lime for squeezing at the table
Save to Pinterest I always look forward to zesting the lime because the entire kitchen fills up with a citrusy perfume It is amazing how a little zest in the crema changes the whole dish My kids always try to sneak spoonfuls while I am assembling fajitas and it always makes me laugh
Storage Tips
Leftover fajita mix can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days The lime crema stays fresh for about the same length of time Keep tortillas separate so they do not get soggy Reheat chicken and vegetables gently in a skillet over medium heat to keep them moist
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of sour cream Greek yogurt gives a great tang and creaminess No red onion Swap in yellow or sweet onion or even thin sliced shallots For extra veg power zucchini or mushrooms are delicious sautéed with the peppers You can use chicken thighs instead of breast for a richer flavor
Serving Suggestions
Besides classic tortillas pile the filling onto rice bowls or scoop it up in crunchy lettuce cups For extra color and taste sprinkle with queso fresco or a dash of hot sauce Refried beans or a simple avocado salad make perfect sides
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However you serve them these fajitas deliver juicy chicken and bold vegetables kissed by zesty crema. A dinner everyone is sure to love and request again soon.
Recipe FAQs
- → How can I keep the chicken tender and juicy?
Slice chicken evenly and avoid overcooking. High heat sears the meat quickly, sealing in moisture. Letting it rest a minute before serving also helps.
- → What type of tortillas work best?
Both flour and corn tortillas are great. For gluten-free meals, go with corn tortillas. Warm them for the best texture and flavor.
- → Can I substitute another protein?
Try thinly sliced beef, shrimp, or tofu. Simply adjust cooking time as needed for your chosen protein.
- → Is there a lighter alternative to sour cream in the lime crema?
Yes, substitute Greek yogurt for a tangy, lighter option with similar creaminess.
- → How can I increase the spice level?
Add sliced fresh jalapeños, more chili powder, or a pinch of cayenne to the skillet for extra heat.