Easy One-Pan Fajita Skillet

Name: Easy One-Pan Fajita Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 green bell pepper, sliced; 1 onion, sliced; Juice of 1 lime; Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Highlighted under: Fresh & Wholesome Recipes

I love the simplicity and flavor of this Easy One-Pan Fajita Skillet. It’s a dish that brings together vibrant bell peppers, tender chicken, and zesty spices, creating a feast that’s not just easy to prepare but also packed with deliciousness. Within just 30 minutes, I can have a wholesome meal ready, making it my go-to weeknight dinner. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze since everything cooks in one pan, which makes it perfect for busy evenings when time is of the essence.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-18T14:06:19.255Z

When I first made this Easy One-Pan Fajita Skillet, I was amazed at how quickly everything came together. I started by marinating the chicken in a blend of lime juice and spices, which not only tenderized the meat but also infused it with flavor. As the chicken cooked, the aromas wafted through my kitchen, and I couldn't wait to dig in.

One tip I discovered is to slice the bell peppers and onion thinly for quicker cooking and better texture. My family loved the vibrant colors of this dish, and it became an instant favorite for our weeknight meals. It’s so versatile that I often switch up the proteins or even throw in some black beans for added nutrition!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick one-pan preparation for minimal cleanup
Vibrant flavors from fresh vegetables and spices
Easily customizable with your favorite proteins

Mastering the Marinade

Marinating the chicken is crucial for infusing the meat with flavor. The combination of olive oil and spices ensures that the chicken remains moist while also absorbing the robust profiles of chili powder and cumin. I recommend letting the chicken marinate for at least 10 minutes, but if you have more time, you can let it sit in the fridge for up to an hour. This extra time allows the flavors to penetrate deeper, creating a more flavorful dish.

When preparing the marinade, make sure to coat the chicken evenly. Using a resealable bag can be handy here; it allows for easy mixing and ensures every piece is well-coated. This technique can help prevent the chicken from drying out during cooking, which is essential for achieving that tender, juicy bite in your fajitas.

Vegetable Variations

While this recipe calls for bell peppers and onions, you can easily customize it to include your favorite vegetables. For instance, adding zucchini or corn can introduce more texture and sweetness. If you like heat, consider throwing in some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes when sautéing the vegetables. Aim for a rainbow of colors on your plate; not only does it make the dish more visually appealing, but it also enhances the overall flavor profile.

Cooking the vegetables until they are tender yet still slightly crisp is key. Ideally, you'll want to have them sauté for about 5-7 minutes while stirring occasionally until they begin to soften but remain vibrant in color. This ensures they hold their shape and contribute a nice crunch to your fajitas.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

For the Fajita Skillet

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 onion, sliced
Juice of 1 lime
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

Instructions:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for 10 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through.

Add Vegetables

Add the sliced bell peppers and onion to the skillet. Stir occasionally and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Finish with Lime

Drizzle the lime juice over the cooked fajitas and mix well. Cook for another minute to combine the flavors.

Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot. Enjoy with tortillas or over rice!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize your fajitas with other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, and use steak or shrimp instead of chicken for variety.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store the fajitas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I recommend separating the ingredients to prevent the tortillas from getting soggy. When it comes time to reheat, you can easily warm everything in the skillet over medium heat until heated through, about 5 minutes. This method revitalizes the leftover flavors without overcooking the ingredients.

For long-term storage, feel free to freeze the cooked fajitas. Place them in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible, and they can last for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat, defrost in the refrigerator overnight, and then reheat in the skillet. This allows you to enjoy your meal with minimal prep on busy nights.

Serving Suggestions

These Easy One-Pan Fajitas can be served in many delightful ways. While traditional tortillas are fantastic, you can also serve them over rice, quinoa, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb alternative. For a creative twist, try them in a burrito bowl with black beans, corn, and avocado.

Don't forget the toppings! Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness and helps enhance the flavor. You can also offer options like sour cream, guacamole, or cheese on the side. This allows everyone to customize their meal to their liking and makes for a more interactive dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken a few hours in advance or even the night before for deeper flavor.

→ What can I serve with fajitas?

You can serve them with tortillas, rice, beans, or a fresh salad. It's also great with avocado or guacamole on the side.

→ Are the leftovers good?

Absolutely! You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stove or microwave.

→ Can I make it vegetarian?

Definitely! Substitute the chicken with beans or tofu and add your favorite vegetables.