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Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas make dinner effortless and full of flavor with minimal fuss. This all-in-one meal brings together tender chicken and colorful bell peppers roasted with a fragrant homemade fajita seasoning. Everything cooks on a single sheet pan, which means prep and cleanup are quick and painless, perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a hungry family.
I first made this dish when I was short on time and without much kitchen gear. It quickly became a go-to because everyone loves the juicy chicken and sweet roasted peppers. Now it’s a regular at my family table.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: sliced against the grain for tenderness – fresh and highquality chicken works best
- Bell peppers: in vibrant colors add sweetness and crunch plus a pop of color
- Yellow onions: provide a natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully when roasted
- Fresh garlic: adds warmth and depth; use plump cloves for the best flavor
- Olive oil: a good quality extra virgin variety brings richness and helps everything brown
- Fajita seasoning: a homemade blend of chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper this mix is key for authentic fajita flavor
- Fresh lime juice: brightens the dish with a tangy finish
- Fresh cilantro: for garnish, adding a fragrant herbaceous note
- Flour or corn tortillas: warmed and ready for serving
Instructions
- Slicing the Ingredients:
- Slice chicken breasts into thin strips against the grain. This makes the meat tender and prevents chewiness. Cut bell peppers and onions into similar-sized strips to ensure even cooking.
- Preparing the Seasoning and Pan:
- In a small bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit so it’s hot and ready.
- Seasoning the Chicken and Vegetables:
- Place the sliced vegetables on a sheet pan and layer the chicken strips on top. Sprinkle the fajita seasoning evenly over the chicken and vegetables. Drizzle minced garlic over the chicken and pour olive oil over the whole pan to help the spices stick and promote caramelization.
- Tossing and Spreading:
- Using tongs or your hands, gently toss everything together to coat all pieces well with seasoning and oil. Spread the mixture out into a single even layer to ensure everything cooks evenly.
- Baking:
- Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. The vegetables should be tender and slightly charred around the edges.
- Finishing Touches and Serving:
- Remove the sheet pan from the oven. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the fajitas and sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Warm your tortillas and serve alongside with salsa, sour cream, guacamole, or your favorite toppings.
My favorite ingredient is the homemade fajita seasoning blend since it is the secret to getting that classic smoky, earthy flavor. I remember serving this meal when my family was gathered after a long day and seeing everyone happily dig in with warm tortillas in hand was a real joy.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a skillet to keep chicken moist and veggies tender. To make reheating smoother, save tortillas separately to avoid sogginess.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have bell peppers, zucchini or sliced mushrooms can add a different texture and still roast beautifully. For a glutenfree option, always choose corn tortillas. Swap chicken breasts for boneless thighs for a juicier texture that many prefer.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete meal. Fresh guacamole, sour cream, and pico de gallo make excellent toppings. A simple green salad with avocado balances the warm spices.
Serve hot with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings for a quick, crowd-pleasing weeknight meal. This sheet pan method keeps prep and cleanup simple while delivering bold fajita flavor.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do I ensure the chicken stays tender?
Slice chicken against the grain and avoid overcooking by baking just until it reaches 165°F internal temperature.
- → Can I prepare the ingredients ahead of time?
Yes, vegetables and chicken can be prepped and stored separately in the fridge until ready to bake.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Try Mexican rice, refried beans, or fresh salsa for a complete meal.
- → How can I freeze this meal for later?
Freeze raw sliced chicken and vegetables with seasoning in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months, then thaw and bake as usual.
- → Are there vegetarian options using this method?
Yes, substitute chicken with black beans, sweet potatoes, mushrooms, or cooked rice for a hearty vegetarian version.