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These air fryer chicken fajitas are my go to recipe whenever I want a fuss free weeknight dinner that tastes like it took hours. The chicken stays juicy while the colorful bell peppers and onions caramelize just right. You can have this family favorite on the table in about fifteen minutes which is perfect for busy nights or sudden cravings
I started making these when I first got my air fryer and could not believe how easy it was My family devours them every single time sometimes I even have to make a double batch
Ingredients
- Chicken breast: Choose fresh or high quality chicken cut into strips for even cooking and juicy bites
- Red bell pepper: Adds sweetness and vibrant color Use one that feels heavy and glossy for the freshest taste
- Orange bell pepper: Brings a mild fruity flavor Choose firm peppers without wrinkles
- Green bell pepper: Offers a bit of bitterness which balances the sweetness Pick a deep green pepper with no soft spots
- Red onion: Provides a mellow sharpness and lovely color Use a solid onion free of sprouting
- Olive oil: Helps everything brown and keeps the chicken moist Use extra virgin for the most flavor
- Fajita seasoning: Packs in flavor Make your own mix or use a favorite store blend Just check the salt content if sensitive
- Corn or flour tortillas: Homemade or store bought work Warm them slightly before serving for the best experience
- Mashed avocado with lime and salt: Creamy richness and zing Choose ripe avocados and a fresh lime for the best mash
- Salsa: Adds brightness and a tangy pop Go mild or spicy depending on preference
- Shredded cheese: Optional for extra melty goodness Choose a good melting cheese like Monterey Jack
- Limes: Squeezing lime over the fajitas brings everything together Use juicy limes
- Cilantro: Fresh leaves for garnish Add right before serving for color and a fresh taste
Step by Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken and Veggies:
- Add sliced chicken and all vegetables into a large mixing bowl Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle fajita seasoning Toss very well until everything is evenly coated
- Preheat and Prep Air Fryer:
- Turn the air fryer on to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit Spray the basket lightly with olive oil to stop sticking This helps with easy cleanup later
- Cook in Air Fryer:
- Lay the seasoned chicken and veggies in a single layer in your air fryer basket Some slight overlapping is okay if you need to Cook for ten minutes Total cooking time can vary if you cut the strips smaller so check them at eight minutes Give the basket a shake or toss halfway through for even browning
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Transfer the crispy hot chicken and veggies onto a serving platter Serve immediately with your favorite tortillas top with mashed avocado salsa cheese a squeeze of lime and cilantro
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I always look forward to the sweet caramelized bell peppers in this recipe My kids love piling their own fajitas and it becomes a hands on meal that brings everyone together at the table
Storage Tips
Store leftover chicken and veggies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days Reheat in the air fryer for a couple of minutes to bring back the tender crisp texture You can also freeze cooked chicken and peppers for up to two months but the veggies might soften a little when thawed
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap chicken breast for chicken thighs which will be even juicier Just trim extra fat before slicing For a veggie version try strips of portobello mushrooms and extra peppers Use any bell pepper colors you have and even a yellow onion works fine
Serving Suggestions
These fajitas are perfect with classic sides like Mexican rice refried beans or a leafy salad For low carb options serve over cauliflower rice or tucked into crunchy lettuce leaves for a fajita wrap Add pickled jalapenos for extra zing or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce
Simple Air Fryer Fajitas in History
Fajitas originated in Texas with vaqueros grilling strips of beef but now chicken versions are just as beloved Cooking fajitas in the air fryer brings a fresh approach to a Tex Mex classic making them doable any night of the week
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, chicken thighs work well and offer extra juiciness. Slice them into strips, just as you would with the breast.
- → Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Preheating to 400°F is recommended for even cooking and to achieve slightly caramelized edges on the veggies.
- → What tortillas are best for serving?
Both corn and flour tortillas pair nicely. Warm them before assembling for better texture and flavor.
- → How do I prevent the air fryer from overcrowding?
Arrange the chicken and vegetables in a single layer. Cook in batches if necessary for optimal results.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Store cooled chicken and veggies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- → Can I adjust the seasoning level?
Absolutely. Feel free to add more or less seasoning, or even spice it up with extra chili powder if you like.