Pin It These chicken fajitas with lime crema deliver sizzling flavor with tender chicken strips colorful peppers and a refreshing burst of citrusy sauce. The dish comes together in less than an hour yet tastes like a restaurant treat. Whether you are feeding the family on a busy weeknight or planning a festive Tex-Mex night at home this skillet meal is one you will want on repeat.
I made these on a whim the first time because I had extra bell peppers and now it is my go-to way to get everyone excited for dinner night after night. The lime crema turns the meal into something special without any fuss.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: The centerpiece of the dish Choose fresh breasts and slice thinly for best results
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the chicken Use extra-virgin for maximum flavor
- Red yellow and green bell peppers: Each one offers distinct sweetness and color Choose firm glossy peppers
- Large red onion: Contributes mellow sweetness and color Look for onions that feel heavy for their size
- Garlic: Fresh garlic rounds out the flavor Use plump cloves with tight skin
- Chili powder: Smoky and mild heat Go for a quality Tex-Mex blend for balance
- Ground cumin: Earthy depth freshly ground if possible has more aroma
- Smoked paprika: Brings gentle smokiness Spanish or Hungarian varieties work well avoid sweet paprika for more punch
- Dried oregano: Classic herbal accent Mediterranean oregano offers the strongest flavor
- Salt and ground black pepper: Seasons and lifts the spice profile Use sea salt for best taste
- Lime juice: Brightens and ties all the flavors together Choose a juicy lime that yields slightly to pressure
- Sour cream: The creamy base for the sauce Use good-quality full-fat for the richest crema
- Lime zest and juice: Fresh zest enlivens the sauce always zest before juicing
- Fresh cilantro: Brings herbaceous brightness Use sprigs with no yellowing or browning
- Tortillas: Flour or corn depending on preference Warm them just before serving for best flexibility
- Fresh cilantro leaves for serving: A final pop of color and flavor
- Lime wedges: Brings extra zing to the table
Instructions
- Mix the Spice Blend:
- In a small bowl combine chili powder cumin smoked paprika oregano salt and pepper Stir well to create a cohesive seasoning mix with no clumps
- Season and Marinate the Chicken:
- Place sliced chicken in a large bowl Drizzle one tablespoon of olive oil over the top and sprinkle the spice blend Add a few tosses to coat all the pieces evenly Let rest for five to ten minutes while you prep vegetables
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium high Once shimmering and just beginning to smoke add chicken strips in a single layer Cook for about five to six minutes turning occasionally until all sides show golden browning and the meat is cooked through Remove chicken and set aside on a plate with a loose cover to keep warm
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet add all sliced peppers and onions Let them cook undisturbed for two minutes to pick up a charred edge then begin stirring often Continue for another three to five minutes until the veggies are softened but still offer a slight crunch toward the center Add the minced garlic and stir for an extra minute to release aroma without burning
- Combine and Finish with Lime:
- Return chicken and any juices back to the skillet with the vegetables Squeeze the juice of one whole lime over everything Toss until everything is glossy and mixed Heat through for one or two minutes so the flavors meld without the chicken overcooking
- Make the Lime Crema:
- While ingredients finish in the skillet grab a small bowl and whisk together sour cream lime zest lime juice chopped cilantro and a tiny pinch of salt Aim for a creamy sauce with flecks of green and a bright citrusy aroma
- Warm the Tortillas:
- While the filling rests heat tortillas in a dry skillet one at a time until just floppy or wrap in foil and set in a low oven for five minutes Soft tortillas will resist splitting and roll up perfectly
- Assemble and Serve:
- Lay warm tortillas out and divide the chicken fajita mixture evenly down the center Drizzle with lime crema and add fresh cilantro and lime wedges as desired Serve hot for maximum impact
Pin It What I love most is the way the citrusy lime crema wakes up every bite I remember my son licking extra crema from his plate and begging for more tortillas just to have a delivery vehicle This recipe never fails to bring the family to the table fast
Storage Tips
Leftovers keep well for up to three days in the fridge Store the filling and crema separately to keep the sauce from turning runny Warm fajita filling in a covered pan over low heat or microwave in thirty second bursts Always add lime crema just before serving
Ingredient Substitutions
Use boneless chicken thighs for even juicier results If you want a vegetarian option swap chicken for thick slices of portobello mushrooms or chickpeas Greek yogurt works in place of sour cream for the crema and even dairy free yogurt can do the job in a pinch For extra spice toss in sliced jalapeños or a pinch of chipotle powder
Serving Suggestions
Round out your meal with a side of Mexican rice or a bowl of black beans A simple chopped salad with avocado makes for a cooler contrast Do not forget to set out extra lime wedges and cilantro for topping
Pin It 
Make a double batch of lime crema to keep the flavor party going all week. These fajitas always bring color and smiles to the table.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?
Slice chicken breasts thinly and cook over medium-high heat until just done to keep them tender and juicy.
- → Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use corn tortillas instead of flour to keep the meal gluten-free and always check your ingredients.
- → What can I substitute for sour cream in the lime crema?
Greek yogurt works well as a substitute, offering a lighter and tangy alternative without sacrificing creaminess.
- → How can I add more heat to the dish?
Include sliced jalapeños in the skillet or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to your spice mix for extra kick.
- → What are some good side dishes?
Pair with guacamole, black beans, or a simple salad to round out your Tex-Mex-inspired meal.
- → Is this suitable for meal prep?
Yes, you can cook the chicken and vegetables ahead of time, store separately, and assemble when ready to eat.