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Get ready to bring bold flavor and festive fun to your dinner table! This delectable chicken fajita marinade is brimming with tangy citrus, smoky spices, and a hint of heat. It’s the perfect way to transform plain chicken into sizzling fajitas that will delight everyone.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat
Instructions
Begin by whisking the lime juice, olive oil, and minced garlic together in a small bowl. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. If you crave extra kick, a dash of cayenne pepper adds the perfect punch.
Next, place your chicken pieces into a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Seal or cover the container, then let the chicken chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes—ideally longer if you have the time, so those zesty flavors really sink in.
When you’re ready to cook, preheat a grill or a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Grill or sear the chicken until cooked through, about 6–8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
While the chicken rests, quickly sauté sliced bell peppers and onions in the same pan or on the grill until they’re slightly charred. Finally, layer your sliced chicken and sizzling veggies into warm tortillas, topping them with your favorite fixings—think fresh avocado, sour cream, salsa, or cilantro.
This remarkable fajita marinade brings zing and smokiness to tender chicken, making it perfect for a lively family dinner or a fun weekend fiesta. Feel free to substitute chicken with steak, shrimp, or portobello mushrooms to accommodate different dietary preferences. If you’re mindful of sodium, reduce the salt and boost fresh herbs like cilantro or oregano for added flavor. However you customize it, this recipe invites everyone to dig in and celebrate a taste of Tex-Mex goodness!
