Chicken Fajitas with Lime Crema

Chicken fajitas with lime crema are my go-to when I want something vibrant, filling, and full of bold flavor but have only one skillet to clean. Sizzling chicken strips with sweet peppers and onions make a lively centerpiece, and the lime crema brings a creamy tang that instantly brightens the whole meal. It is comfort and color on a plate, fast enough for any weeknight.

The first time I made this, friends raved about the lime crema and how it elevated everything. Since then, it has become a Friday-night dinner tradition in my house.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: tender strips offer lean protein and cook quickly Look for firm pink flesh with no blemishes
• Olive oil: brings healthy fats and helps everything sizzle Use a fruity extra-virgin oil for best flavor
• Bell peppers: red yellow and green provide sweetness and color Choose peppers with taut skin and vibrant hues
• Red onion: delivers mild sharpness and extra color Look for firm heavy onions with dry shiny skins
• Fresh garlic: adds depth and a savory kick Opt for fat firm cloves with no green sprouts
• Chili powder cumin smoked paprika dried oregano salt and pepper: create layers of warmth and smokiness Select spices from a store with quick turnover to ensure freshness
• Lime: brightens with acidity and ties the filling together Use limes that are heavy for their size and give slightly to pressure
• Sour cream: the base of lime crema offers cooling creaminess Choose full-fat for richness or light if you prefer
• Cilantro: sprinkles herbaceous lift throughout Pick bunches with crisp stems and no wilting
• Tortillas: choose flour for softness and pliability or corn for gluten-free earthy notes Select tortillas without cracks
• Optional toppings: like more cilantro and fresh lime wedges let everyone customize their plates

Instructions

Make the Spice Blend:

In a small bowl combine chili powder cumin smoked paprika oregano salt and pepper Stir thoroughly so everything is evenly mixed Store any extra spice blend for eggs or roasted veggies later

Season the Chicken:

Place sliced chicken in a large bowl Drizzle with half the olive oil Sprinkle over the prepared spice blend Toss with tongs or your hands for thorough, even coating Let sit briefly while the pan heats up

Sear the Chicken:

Heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high Once shimmering add chicken in a single layer Do not move for the first two minutes for golden-brown color Stir and let cook another few minutes until chicken is just cooked through Remove from skillet to a plate but leave browned bits in the pan

Sauté the Peppers and Onions:

In the same skillet add bell peppers and red onion Stir often with a wooden spoon scraping up any flavorful browned bits Cook seven minutes until peppers are soft and edges are beginning to char Add minced garlic and cook one minute more until fragrant

Finish the Filling:

Return cooked chicken to the skillet Squeeze fresh lime juice directly over mixture Toss together and cook one to two minutes more until everything is hot and glossy

Prepare the Lime Crema:

While the skillet sizzles whisk sour cream lime zest lime juice cilantro and a pinch of salt in a small bowl Whisk until smooth creamy and a little bit tangy Taste and adjust salt or lime as desired

Warm the Tortillas:

Warm tortillas in a dry skillet flipping after twenty seconds per side or wrap in foil and heat in the oven for a few minutes until soft and steamy

Assemble and Serve:

Fill warm tortillas with the piping-hot chicken pepper mixture Drizzle generously with lime crema Top with extra cilantro and serve lime wedges on the side Let everyone build their own for that interactive experience

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My favorite part is always the way the peppers stay just slightly crisp against the juicy strips of chicken. Every time I serve this family style someone always sneaks an extra spoonful of lime crema before dinner even starts.

Storage Tips

Fajita leftovers keep for three days in the fridge Store the tortilla separately for best texture and reheat fillings in a skillet or microwave Drizzle fresh lime crema just before eating so the flavors stay bright If freezing pack the chicken and vegetables in an airtight container for up to two months Thaw overnight and reheat gently

Ingredient Substitutions

Try Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lightened-up crema Swap chicken for sliced skirt steak or portobello mushrooms to make it vegetarian Add sliced jalapeños to the peppers for more heat or sub in poblano for earthiness

Serving Suggestions

Serve these with a simple tomato salsa and tortilla chips for a Tex-Mex feast Add black beans or rice to the fajita mix to stretch for more servings Pair with a crunchy chopped salad for even more fresh vegetables on the table

Cultural Note

Fajitas originated as a Tex-Mex classic born from grilling skirt steak and piling it into tortillas Modern fajitas often use chicken and a medley of peppers for color and sweetness but the spirit is the same It is all about sharing building plates at the table and lively conversation

Seasonal Adaptations

Mix in zucchini strips or fresh corn in summer for a sweet burst Use poblano peppers in place of bells for fall earthiness Top with pomegranate seeds for a wintry pop of tartness

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Bring the spirit of a Tex-Mex gathering to your table with these colorful chicken fajitas & tangy lime crema. There is always something to savor for every taste at fajita night!

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?

Slice chicken thinly and cook over medium-high heat just until browned; avoid overcooking to retain moisture.

→ Can I make the lime crema ahead of time?

Yes, the crema can be prepared up to two days in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator.

→ Are there gluten-free options available?

Absolutely. Use corn tortillas to keep the dish gluten-free, and always check the ingredient labels.

→ What can I substitute for sour cream in the crema?

Greek yogurt offers a lighter, tangy alternative that works just as well in the lime crema mixture.

→ How can I add more heat?

Stir in fresh sliced jalapeños with the peppers or add a pinch of cayenne to the spice blend for extra kick.

→ What are the best side dishes to serve with this?

Try pairing with Mexican rice, black beans, or a crisp salad for a balanced meal.