I remember the first time I made this one-pan chicken fajita bake. The house filled with the warm, smoky scent of chili powder and cumin, mingling with the sweet aroma of roasted bell peppers and onions. As I sliced into the tender chicken, still juicy and perfectly seasoned, I felt a quiet satisfaction. The vivid reds, greens, and yellows of the peppers brightened the plate and my evening. Dinner was ready in under an hour, and cleanup was a breeze. It was one of those meals that felt both comforting and exciting, a simple dish that instantly lifted the mood after a long day.
There’s something special about a recipe that transforms everyday ingredients into a colorful feast. The blend of spices dances on your palate, with just a hint of heat that keeps you coming back for more. The lime wedges add a zesty brightness, cutting through the richness and tying every bite together. It’s a meal you can feel good about, packed with wholesome veggies and lean protein, yet bursting with flavor. It’s the kind of dish that invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and enjoy good company around the table.
- All-in-one pan means less mess and more time to relax.
- Fresh, vibrant veggies roast alongside seasoned chicken for a colorful plate.
- Bold spices create a smoky, flavorful experience without complicated steps.
- Quick prep and baking make it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Lime and cilantro add a refreshing finish that brightens every bite.
Even if you’re not usually one to experiment, this dish feels approachable and satisfying. There’s no need to fuss over complicated techniques, just straightforward layers of flavor coming together beautifully. And if you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, it holds up well refrigerated, ready to be reheated and enjoyed again. That’s the kind of recipe I’m happy to keep on hand.
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One-Pan Chicken Fajita Bake
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
A quick and easy one-pan chicken fajita bake loaded with colorful bell peppers, onions, and seasoned chicken breasts, all baked to perfection for a flavorful and healthy meal.
Ingredients
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch strips
1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
1 green bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
1 medium yellow onion, sliced into thin strips
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 lime, cut into wedges (for serving)
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, combine the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
Add the chicken strips to the bowl and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss to coat the chicken evenly with the spice mixture.
Place the seasoned chicken strips in the center of a large rimmed baking sheet or ovenproof pan.
In the same bowl, add the sliced red, green, and yellow bell peppers and the sliced onion. Drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and toss to coat.
Arrange the vegetables evenly around the chicken on the baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender, stirring the vegetables halfway through cooking for even roasting.
Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro.
Serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the chicken and vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
FAQ
Can I use different vegetables? Absolutely. While bell peppers and onions are classic, feel free to add zucchini or mushrooms for variety.
Is it spicy? The recipe has a mild kick from the chili powder and red pepper flakes, but you can adjust the heat to your liking.
Can I make it gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your spices are pure and free of additives.
How do I store leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently to keep the chicken juicy.
Can I double the recipe? You can double it, but make sure your pan is large enough for even cooking.
Ready to bring bold flavors and easy cooking into your weeknight routine? Give this one-pan chicken fajita bake a try and enjoy every vibrant bite.