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Easy Sheet Pan Fajitas Recipe: A Quick, Flavorful, and Healthy Meal

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Sheet Pan Fajitas are an easy and delicious weeknight meal that’s bursting with flavor and made in one pan, making cleanup a breeze! This recipe features tender, juicy chicken (or your choice of protein) seasoned with a blend of spices, roasted alongside colorful bell peppers and onions. The combination of vibrant vegetables and juicy chicken creates a hearty meal that’s as healthy as it is tasty.

Perfect for busy families, meal prepping, or anyone looking for a quick and flavorful dinner, Sheet Pan Fajitas are customizable to suit your tastes. Whether you prefer them with chicken, beef, or a vegetarian option, this dish will quickly become a go-to in your recipe rotation.

Recipe Preparation Equipment

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare Sheet Pan Fajitas:

  • A large sheet pan (baking tray)
  • A mixing bowl for tossing the fajita ingredients
  • A spoon or spatula for mixing
  • A sharp knife and cutting board for slicing vegetables and protein
  • Aluminum foil or parchment paper (optional, for easy cleanup)

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Sheet Pan Fajitas:

For the fajita mix:

  • 1 lb (450g) chicken breast or thighs, sliced into thin strips (or other protein like beef, shrimp, or tofu)
  • 2 bell peppers, sliced (use a mix of colors like red, yellow, and green)
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 lime, juiced (for flavor)

For serving:

  • Flour tortillas (or corn for gluten-free)
  • Toppings like sour cream, guacamole, salsa, shredded cheese, or fresh cilantro

How to Make Sheet Pan Fajitas?

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easier cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the fajita mix

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced chicken (or other protein), bell peppers, and onion. Drizzle with olive oil and toss everything to coat. Add the chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss again to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed over the ingredients. Squeeze the lime juice over the top and mix once more.

Step 3: Arrange the fajita mix on the sheet pan

Spread the seasoned chicken and vegetables evenly on the prepared sheet pan in a single layer. Ensure the pieces are spread out to allow them to cook evenly.

Step 4: Bake the fajitas

Bake the fajitas in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can stir the mixture halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Serve

Once the fajitas are done, remove the sheet pan from the oven. Warm the tortillas in the oven or on a skillet for a few seconds until they are soft. Serve the fajitas with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, salsa, guacamole, or shredded cheese.

Variations

  • Protein options: You can use beef, shrimp, or tofu as an alternative to chicken. Simply slice the protein into thin strips for quick cooking.
  • Vegetarian version: For a vegetarian fajita, use a mix of beans (black beans or pinto beans) and extra vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, and corn.
  • Spicy fajitas: Add extra chili powder, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Cooking Note

Sheet Pan Fajitas are incredibly versatile. You can adjust the seasoning based on your preferences, making them spicier, milder, or even smoky with a bit of chipotle powder. This recipe is also great for meal prep – simply store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The fajitas also freeze well for up to 2 months, so you can enjoy them later.

Serving Suggestions

These Sheet Pan Fajitas are great served with:

  • A side of Mexican rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
  • A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette
  • Sautéed or roasted vegetables for added flavor and nutrition
  • A side of black beans or refried beans for more protein

Helpful Tips

  • Slice the chicken evenly: For even cooking, make sure the chicken is sliced into strips of similar size. This ensures they all cook at the same rate.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan: For crispy veggies and perfectly cooked chicken, avoid overcrowding the sheet pan. If needed, use two sheet pans to ensure the ingredients are spread out evenly.
  • Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking. If you prefer a smoky flavor, add some chipotle chili powder. If you like them milder, skip the cayenne pepper.

Tips for the Best Sheet Pan Fajitas

  • Pre-cook the protein: If you want a little extra char on the chicken or beef, sear it in a hot skillet for a couple of minutes before adding it to the sheet pan. This step is optional but adds great flavor.
  • Add cheese: After baking, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top of the fajitas and return the pan to the oven for a few minutes until it melts.
  • Double the recipe: If you have a crowd to feed, simply double the ingredients and use two sheet pans to make a larger batch.

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cooking Time:

20-25 minutes

Total Time:

30-35 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 300
  • Protein: 30g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 6g

FAQs

1. Can I make these fajitas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and vegetables with the seasoning and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This can help save time on busy evenings.

2. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Fresh chicken works best for this recipe, as frozen chicken may release excess water when baking. If using frozen chicken, make sure it’s fully thawed before preparing.

3. Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, corn, or even sweet potatoes for added texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Sheet Pan Fajitas are an incredibly easy, healthy, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, you’ll have a delicious dinner on the table in no time. Whether you’re feeding your family or meal prepping for the week, these fajitas will be a hit. Customize them with your favorite protein and veggies, and enjoy a nutritious, satisfying meal that’s sure to become a regular part of your recipe rotation.

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