Print

Easy Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas – Best Dinner Party Recipe

easy sheet pan chicken fajitas - featured image

This easy sheet pan chicken fajitas recipe delivers big flavor with almost no fuss. Smoky, charred chicken and sweet roasted peppers come together on one pan for a stunning, stress-free dinner that’s perfect for entertaining or a busy weeknight.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds (about 900g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 3 large bell peppers (mixed colors), sliced into ½-inch strips
  • 1 large red onion, sliced into thin wedges (about ¼-inch thick)
  • 3 tablespoons (45ml) avocado oil
  • For the fajita seasoning:
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder (ancho chili powder recommended)
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1½ teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano (Mexican oregano if available)
  • ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • For serving:
  • 12 to 16 small or 8 to 10 large flour or corn tortillas
  • 2 to 3 fresh limes, cut into wedges
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Your favorite salsa or pico de gallo
  • Sour cream or Mexican crema
  • Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or cotija)
  • Guacamole or sliced avocado
  • Pickled jalapeños (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the rack in the middle position. Line a half-sheet pan (18×13 inches) with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
  2. Make the fajita seasoning: In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon chili powder, 2 teaspoons smoked paprika, 1½ teaspoons cumin, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon oregano, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon cayenne (if using). Whisk with a fork until evenly distributed.
  3. Prep the chicken: Pat 2 pounds of chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Slice each breast against the grain into ½-inch thick strips (about 3 to 4 inches long). Place in a large mixing bowl.
  4. Prep the vegetables: Slice 3 bell peppers into ½-inch strips, discarding seeds and membranes. Cut 1 large red onion in half through the root, then slice each half into thin wedges (about ¼-inch thick). Add to the bowl with the chicken.
  5. Season everything: Drizzle 3 tablespoons of avocado oil over the chicken and vegetables. Sprinkle the fajita seasoning over the top. Using your hands or tongs, toss until every piece is evenly coated.
  6. Spread on the sheet pan: Pour the seasoned chicken and vegetables onto the prepared pan. Spread into a single, even layer. If the pan looks overcrowded, use a second pan.
  7. Roast for 20 minutes: Place the pan in the preheated oven. Do not open the oven door during this time. After 20 minutes, remove the pan. The chicken should be cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and the vegetables softened and starting to char.
  8. Optional: For extra char, switch the oven to broil. Return the pan to the oven for 2 to 3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
  9. Rest and slice: Remove the pan from the oven. Let it rest for 5 minutes. Transfer the chicken strips to a cutting board and slice them into bite-sized pieces against the grain. Return the sliced chicken to the pan with the vegetables and toss gently.
  10. Finish with lime: Squeeze the juice of 1 to 2 fresh limes over the fajitas. Sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro if using. Serve immediately with warm tortillas and desired toppings.

Notes

For best results, let chicken sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before seasoning. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Let the fajitas rest for 5 minutes after roasting to keep the chicken juicy. To warm tortillas for a crowd, wrap in foil and place in a 200°F (95°C) oven for 10 to 15 minutes. Prep ahead: slice chicken and vegetables, mix seasoning, and toss together up to 8 hours in advance; store in the fridge until ready to roast.

Nutrition

Keywords: sheet pan chicken fajitas, easy fajitas, dinner party recipe, chicken fajitas, sheet pan dinner, Mexican recipe, gluten-free fajitas