Easy Fajita Marinade for Quick Flavor

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Olive Oil: This is the base for your marinade. It adds richness and helps keep the chicken moist. If you’re out of olive oil, vegetable oil or avocado oil can work well too.

Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the dish. Bottled lime juice can be a quick substitute, but fresh is always best for the flavor. Lemon juice can also work in a pinch!

Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika are key for that classic fajita flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the chili powder or skip the crushed red pepper flakes.

Chicken: Chicken breast is lean and cooks quickly, but thighs are juicier. You can also replace the chicken with shrimp or plant-based proteins like tofu for a vegetarian option!

Vegetables: Bell peppers and onions are traditional but feel free to add zucchini, mushrooms, or corn to the mix for extra nutrients and flavor!

How Can I Make Sure My Chicken is Tender and Juicy?

To get tender and juicy chicken, marinating is key! Here’s how to maximize flavor and tenderness:

• Marinate for at least 15 minutes; for deeper flavor, aim for 2 hours.
• Don’t overcook the chicken in the pan. Cook just until it’s no longer pink inside.
• Let the cooked chicken rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute.

By following these tips, your fajitas will be a hit every time!

Easy Fajita Marinade for Quick Flavor

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, sliced into strips
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 1 small onion, sliced into strips
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Lime wedges for serving

Time Needed:

This easy fajita marinade takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 15 minutes for marinating. If you can, let it marinate for up to 2 hours for maximum flavor. Cooking will take around 10-12 minutes, making this a quick and flavorful meal overall!

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:

Start by grabbing a medium bowl. Add the olive oil, freshly squeezed lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and if you like a little heat, the crushed red pepper flakes. Whisk everything together until well combined.

2. Marinate the Chicken:

Next, add the sliced chicken pieces to the bowl. Toss them around in the marinade until they are fully coated. Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you want more flavor.

3. Cook the Chicken:

When you’re ready to cook, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken starts to brown and is almost cooked through.

4. Add the Vegetables:

Now it’s time to add some crunch! Toss in the sliced red and yellow bell peppers, and the onion to the skillet with the chicken. Sauté everything together for another 5-7 minutes, or until the veggies are nice and tender, and the chicken is fully cooked.

5. Serve:

Once everything is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor. You can enjoy these delicious fajitas in warm tortillas, or serve them over rice.

This simple marinade gives you delicious, zesty flavors that blend beautifully with the sautéed peppers and onions, making for a colorful and satisfying meal!

FAQ for Easy Fajita Marinade

Can I Use Different Proteins for This Marinade?

Absolutely! While chicken is a classic choice, you can also use shrimp, beef, or even plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh. Adjust cooking times accordingly—shrimp cooks fast, while beef may need a bit longer depending on the cut.

What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Marinade?

If you have any leftover marinade, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure not to marinate raw meat in it again. It’s perfect for drizzling over cooked veggies or as a salad dressing!

Can I Make This Marinade Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the marinade in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a quick stir before using, as the ingredients may settle. For optimal flavor, marinate your meat or veggies right before cooking!

How Do I Make This Dish Spicier?

If you like heat, consider adding more crushed red pepper flakes or a chopped fresh jalapeño to the marinade. You can also serve with a spicy salsa or hot sauce on the side for extra kick!