Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas are a fun and easy meal! Juicy chicken sits on a bed of colorful bell peppers and onions, all cooked together on one pan for yummy flavors.
Cleaning up is a breeze since everything cooks in one place. I love to serve them with warm tortillas and a sprinkle of cheese—so tasty and satisfying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Chicken breast is the star here. You can substitute it with chicken thighs for a juicier result. For a lighter option, consider using turkey or even plant-based protein like tempeh or tofu.
Bell Peppers: Red and yellow peppers add sweetness and color. Feel free to mix in green peppers or use any other variety like poblano if you prefer a milder flavor. You can even try other veggies, like zucchini or mushrooms.
Spices: Chili powder and cumin are essential for that fajita flavor. You can swap chili powder with taco seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne for heat. For a fun twist, smoked paprika adds a rich flavor to the mix.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are traditional, but corn tortillas are a great gluten-free option. You could also use lettuce leaves for a low-carb version or try whole wheat tortillas for added fiber.
How Do I Get the Chicken and Veggies Cooked Just Right?
Baking the chicken and vegetables evenly is key for delicious fajitas. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your oven properly to get crispy edges on the chicken and veggies.
- Make sure to spread the mixture in a single layer on the baking sheet. Crowding them can cause steaming instead of roasting.
- Stir halfway through cooking to ensure everything cooks evenly and gets those lovely caramelized spots.
- Check the chicken’s internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
How to Make Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fajitas:
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast, sliced into strips
- 2 bell peppers (red and yellow), sliced
- 1 small red onion, sliced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For Serving:
- 8-10 flour tortillas
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
- Optional: Guacamole and refried beans (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to bake, totaling about 35-40 minutes to get your delicious sheet pan chicken fajitas on the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, set your oven to 425°F (220°C). This way, it’ll be nice and hot when we’re ready to bake the fajitas!
2. Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables:
Grab a large bowl and add your sliced chicken, bell peppers, and red onion. Drizzle in the olive oil, and then sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper on top. Now, using your hands or a spoon, mix everything until all the chicken and veggies are well coated with those yummy spices.
3. Spread on a Baking Sheet:
Take a large baking sheet and spread the chicken and vegetable mixture evenly over it. Make sure it’s all in a single layer for even cooking.
4. Bake It Up:
Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 20-25 minutes. Make sure to stir the mixture halfway through to help everything cook evenly. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender.
5. Warm the Tortillas:
While your chicken and vegetables are baking, warm up your tortillas. You can do this by placing them in a dry skillet for a few seconds on each side or by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving them for about 30 seconds.
6. Assemble and Serve:
Once everything is cooked, take the sheet pan out of the oven and let it cool a bit. Now it’s time to assemble! Place the chicken and veggies on your warm tortillas, adding a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve with guacamole and refried beans on the side if you’d like.
7. Enjoy!
Dig into your delicious sheet pan chicken fajitas and enjoy the wonderful flavors!
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for chicken breast, you can use thighs for a juicier option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if the pieces are larger or thicker to ensure they are fully cooked through.
Can I Substitute the Bell Peppers?
Yes! Feel free to mix it up with any bell pepper colors (green, orange) or even add other veggies like zucchini or mushrooms. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the vegetables you choose.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, you can warm them in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through. If they seem dry, add a splash of water or extra olive oil before reheating.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Definitely! To add some heat, you can include sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice mix. For a milder option, reduce the chili powder or omit it altogether.
