This Lime Fajita Skillet Chicken Breast recipe offers a healthy and flavorful meal you can make quickly. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy chicken breast recipes. You’ll love the vibrant flavors and simple preparation.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless are best. You can also use chicken thighs.
- Bell Peppers: Any color works; red, yellow, and orange add great sweetness.
- Onion: Yellow or white onion.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed is always preferred. Bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch.
- Fajita Seasoning: Use your favorite brand or a homemade blend.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 bell peppers (any color), thinly sliced
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
Spices:
- 2 tablespoons fajita seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Finishing Touch:
- Juice of 1 lime
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 (varies based on ingredients)
- Tools Needed: Large skillet, cutting board, sharp knife
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Chicken
Slice your boneless, skinless chicken breasts into thin, uniform strips. This ensures even cooking. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to get a better sear.
2. Season the Chicken
In a medium bowl, toss the chicken strips with fajita seasoning, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Make sure each piece is well coated for maximum flavor. This step is crucial for delicious healthy chicken breast recipes.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced bell peppers and onion. Cook for 5-7 minutes until they are tender-crisp and slightly charred. Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Cook the Chicken
Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet. Increase the heat slightly if needed. Add the seasoned chicken strips in a single layer and cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through.
5. Combine and Finish
Return the cooked vegetables to the skillet with the chicken. Stir everything together to combine. Squeeze the fresh lime juice over the mixture and toss once more. Serve immediately and enjoy your healthy chicken breast recipe.
Variation Ideas
- Add corn or black beans for extra bulk and fiber.
- Serve with avocado slices or a dollop of plain Greek yogurt.
- Make it spicy with a pinch of cayenne pepper or a sliced jalapeño.
- Use different types of bell peppers for varied color and sweetness.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover Lime Fajita Skillet Chicken Breast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. This makes for excellent meal prep!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can slice and season the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
What should you serve with fajita chicken?
Serve it in lettuce wraps, over rice, with cauliflower rice, or alongside a simple salad.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
As long as your fajita seasoning is gluten-free, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Always check ingredient labels.
How do you prevent chicken from drying out?
Avoid overcooking the chicken. Cook it quickly over medium-high heat until just done, about 5-7 minutes.
Can you make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, replace the chicken with sliced portobello mushrooms, firm tofu, or a can of drained and rinsed black beans.
What kind of skillet is best for this recipe?
A large cast-iron skillet or a non-stick skillet works best for achieving a good sear and even cooking.