Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas

Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas are a quick, flavorful, and minimal-cleanup version of the classic Tex-Mex favorite. Tender strips of chicken, sweet bell peppers, and onions are roasted together on a single pan with a smoky-spicy fajita seasoning. Serve with warm tortillas, fresh toppings, and you’ve got a vibrant weeknight dinner ready in under 30 minutes.

This recipe focuses on perfectly seasoned chicken, evenly roasted vegetables, and bold Tex-Mex flavors that everyone loves.

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Why This Recipe Works

• One-pan cooking for easy cleanup
• Bold, smoky, and slightly spicy seasoning
• Tender chicken and caramelized vegetables
• Customizable toppings for every palate
• Ready in under 30 minutes

Using a sheet pan ensures that everything cooks evenly and develops caramelization without the need for constant stirring.

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Key Ingredients

Protein & Vegetables

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, sliced into thin strips
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced

Fajita Seasoning

• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 1 lime

Optional Toppings

• Warm flour or corn tortillas
• Sliced avocado or guacamole
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Fresh cilantro
• Shredded cheese
• Lime wedges

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. Prepare the Chicken & Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine sliced chicken, bell peppers, and onions. Drizzle with olive oil and lime juice.

3. Add Seasoning

Sprinkle the fajita seasoning over the chicken and vegetables. Toss well to coat evenly.

4. Spread on Sheet Pan

Arrange chicken and vegetables in a single layer on the sheet pan, leaving space between pieces for proper roasting.

5. Roast

Bake for 18–22 minutes, stirring halfway through, until chicken is cooked through (165°F / 74°C internal) and vegetables are tender with slight charred edges.

6. Optional Broil

For extra caramelization, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end, watching carefully to avoid burning.

7. Serve

Warm tortillas and top with chicken and vegetables. Add optional toppings such as avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro, and lime wedges.

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Flavor Profile

• Smoky and slightly spicy from fajita seasoning
• Sweet caramelized bell peppers and onions
• Tangy freshness from lime juice
• Tender, juicy chicken

The combination creates the classic fajita flavor in a quick, convenient sheet pan version.

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Tips for Best Results

• Slice chicken thinly: Ensures even cooking and tenderness.
• Single layer: Overcrowding causes steaming instead of roasting.
• Uniform vegetable slices: Promotes even cooking.
• Use fresh lime juice: Adds brightness and balances the spices.

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Variations

Protein Swaps

• Shrimp or fish for a seafood version
• Steak strips for beef fajitas
• Tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option

Add Extra Vegetables

• Mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes
• Corn or poblano peppers for added flavor

Make It Low-Carb

• Serve over cauliflower rice instead of tortillas
• Skip tortillas and enjoy as a fajita bowl

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What to Serve With

• Mexican rice or cilantro-lime rice
• Black beans or refried beans
• Fresh salsa or pico de gallo
• Guacamole and tortilla chips
• Mexican-style street corn

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Storage & Reheating

Refrigeration

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes or in the microwave. Tortillas should be warmed separately.

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Nutritional Highlights

• High-protein from chicken
• Fiber and vitamins from bell peppers and onions
• Low in added sugar
• Can be made low-carb or keto-friendly

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcrowding pan: Leads to steaming rather than roasting.
2. Uneven slicing: Results in uneven cooking.
3. Skipping olive oil or lime juice: Reduces flavor and caramelization.
4. Overcooking chicken: Slices too thick can dry out.

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Final Thoughts

Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas are a quick, colorful, and flavorful dinner option. With minimal prep, bold seasoning, and versatile toppings, this dish delivers all the flavor of classic Tex-Mex fajitas without the mess of multiple pans. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or casual entertaining.

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