5 net carbs

Chicken Fajitas

Satisfy your taste buds with this mouth-watering chicken fajita recipe, featuring tender chicken strips cooked with sautéed peppers and onions, all wrapped up in butter lettuce or low-carb tortillas.

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Chicken Fajitas

Top view of chicken fajitas in a cast iron skillet.

Low-Carb Chicken Fajitas [Keto]

Total Diabetes Wellness
Looking for a quick and easy dinner that's bursting with flavor? Look no further than this delicious chicken fajita recipe! With tender strips of juicy chicken, sizzling peppers and onions, and a perfect blend of spices, these fajitas are sure to please everyone at the dinner table. Whether you're cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this chicken fajita recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. So grab your apron and get ready to savor the flavors of Mexico with this delicious and nutritious recipe!
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Lunch and Dinner
Cuisine American, Mexican
Servings 6 servings
Net Carbs 5 g
*Net carbs are per serving

Ingredients
 

Fajita seasoning

  • ½ teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons oregano
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, (optional)

Chicken fajitas

  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1 ½ pounds chicken breasts, cut into strips
  • 3 bell peppers, thinly sliced
  • 1 onion, thinly sliced

For serving

  • butter lettuce
  • avocado
  • salsa
  • sour cream
  • cilantro
  • shredded cheese

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl or plastic ziptop bag, add the fajita seasoning, lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons olive oil. Stir together. Add chicken, stir until well coated. Cover and refrigerate for 1-4 hours, or overnight (optional).
    Raw chicken breast strips in a metal mixing bowl covered with fajita seasoning and oil to marinade.
  • In a large heavy skillet over medium heat, saute the bell peppers and onion in remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil. Stir frequently until vegetables are crisp-tender, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
    Top view of skillet cooking sliced bell peppers and onions for fajitas.
  • In the same skillet over medium-high heat, cook chicken until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
    Top view of chicken strips cooking in a skillet to make chicken fajitas.
  • Return peppers and onion to the skillet and stir everything together.
    Top view of skillet with cooked chicken fajita mix - bell peppers, onions, and chicken.
  • Serve immediately with butter lettuce leaves or low-carb tortillas. Garnish as desired with avocado, salsa, sour cream, cilantro, and shredded cheese.
    Top view of low-carb chicken fajitas in a skillet surrounded by avocado, salsa, cilantro, and sour cream.

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Nutrition

 

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Equipment

Keywords chicken fajitas, low-carb fajitas
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Photos of The Best Low-Carb Chicken Fajitas

Notes

Chicken marinade

  • You can marinate the chicken in the fajita seasoning up to 24 hours before cooking. If it’s easier for meal prepping, chop and marinate the chicken the night before and keep it in a sealed ziptop bag or covered bowl in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
  • If you’re short on time, you can omit letting the chicken marinade sit for 1-4 hours. Simply combine the chicken with all of the seasoning ingredients, and then proceed to step 2 after the chicken is well coated. The flavor of the seasoning won’t be quite as strong if it doesn’t have time to sit, but it still will be a delicious meal!

Serving options

  • Our favorite way to serve these delicious chicken fajitas is with butter lettuce leaves in place of tortillas. This adds an extra crisp flavor and keeps the carb count low. If you’d prefer a more traditional tortilla, you can use any low-carb tortilla preferred. If using store-bought low-carb tortillas, be cautious of how the tortillas affect your blood sugar levels. Some commercial products branded “low-carb” or “keto” may still spike blood sugar levels despite marketing and packaging claims.
  • NOTE: Optional serving ingredients and toppings are NOT included in the nutrition facts and carb counts for this recipe. If you’re closely tracking carbs, be sure to account for extra carbs in any toppings you add.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this chicken fajita recipe Keto?

Yes, this chicken fajita recipe is both low-carb and Keto. With 5 grams of net carbs per serving, this recipe is a great choice if you’re following a Keto diet.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Our chicken fajita recipe is gluten-free.

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

  • Make-ahead: You can make this entire recipe up to 2 days ahead of time, and reheat when ready to eat. You can also marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, and pre-chop the vegetables to quickly cook fresh.
  • Storing leftovers: Store leftover chicken fajitas in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.
  • Freezing instructions: Once fajita mix has completely cooled after cooking, freeze in an air-tight, freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before eating.
  • To reheat: Reheat on a skillet over low heat or in a microwave.

Additional Details

When it comes to flavorful and nutritious dishes, chicken fajitas are a staple that never disappoints. Bursting with vibrant colors, sizzling aromas, and a tantalizing blend of spices, chicken fajitas offer a fiesta of flavors that appeal to both taste buds and health-conscious eaters. Whether you’re managing diabetes or simply seeking a low-carb option, this recipe is a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire.

A Brief Background on Chicken Fajitas

Originating in the borderlands of Texas and Mexico, fajitas have a rich history that’s as colorful as the dish itself. The term “fajita” refers to thinly sliced pieces of meat, typically beef or chicken, that are seasoned, cooked over high heat, and served in a tortilla alongside an array of accompaniments. This dish is not only a flavor explosion but also a visual delight, as the sizzling skillet arrives at your table with a tantalizing aroma that’s hard to resist.

Preparation Tips for Perfect Chicken Fajitas

While the recipe card provides the essential cooking instructions, here are some extra tips to elevate your chicken fajitas game:

  • Marination Magic: Allow your chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This step imparts deeper flavors and tenderizes the meat. Opt for a marinade that balances acidity (lime juice or vinegar), oil, and spices.
  • Veggie Variety: Experiment with a mix of colorful bell peppers, red onions, and even thinly sliced zucchini for an extra veggie boost. The medley of textures and colors not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds nutritional value.
  • Spice Up Your Life: Customize your spice blend to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.
  • Hot and Fast: Achieve that signature sizzle by cooking your marinated chicken and veggies over high heat. This quick cooking method helps retain the juiciness of the chicken and the crunchiness of the vegetables.
  • Warm Tortillas: Don’t forget to warm your tortillas! Whether you prefer flour or low-carb alternatives like lettuce wraps or cauliflower tortillas, a quick warm-up makes them more pliable and enjoyable.

Chicken Fajita Variations

While the classic chicken fajitas are undeniably scrumptious, there’s always room for culinary exploration:

  • Shrimp Sensation: Swap out the chicken for succulent shrimp and enjoy a seafood twist on this beloved dish. Shrimp cooks quickly, so be mindful not to overcook them.
  • Tofu Temptation: For a vegetarian option, marinated and grilled tofu provides a protein-packed foundation. Toss the tofu in the same spices as the chicken and grill until golden brown.
  • Avocado Admiration: Elevate your fajitas with creamy avocado slices or guacamole. The rich flavors and healthy fats complement the dish beautifully.
  • Cheese Craze: If you’re not watching your dairy intake, a sprinkle of shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream can add a delightful creamy element.

Benefits for People with Diabetes

One of the prime concerns for individuals with diabetes is managing carbohydrate intake. Chicken fajitas, when prepared with low-carb tortillas or served in lettuce wraps, offer a delicious solution that doesn’t compromise on flavor. The abundance of colorful vegetables in this dish provides essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, which can help stabilize blood sugar levels and promote better digestion.

Furthermore, lean protein from chicken contributes to satiety and muscle maintenance without causing significant spikes in blood sugar. The inclusion of healthy fats from sources like avocados adds a satiating element to the dish while supporting overall heart health.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Chicken Fajitas

Chicken fajitas are a delightful and well-rounded dish on their own, but adding a few complementary side dishes can elevate your dining experience to new heights. From refreshing salads to hearty grains, here are some fantastic options to consider when deciding what to serve alongside your sizzling chicken fajitas.

  1. Mexican Rice: A classic choice that’s hard to resist, Mexican rice is a flavorful and colorful side dish that pairs beautifully with chicken fajitas. The aromatic blend of rice, tomatoes, onions, and spices adds a satisfying carb component to your meal.
  2. Black Bean Salad: For a dose of protein and fiber, whip up a zesty black bean salad. Mix together black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and a splash of lime juice for a refreshing and nutritious accompaniment.
  3. Guacamole and Salsa: Dive into a bowl of freshly made guacamole and a vibrant tomato salsa. These dips not only add bursts of flavor but also provide healthy fats and vitamins to your meal.
  4. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Embrace the summer vibes with grilled corn on the cob. Brushed with a hint of lime and sprinkled with chili powder, this side dish adds a smoky sweetness that balances the savory fajitas.
  5. Cilantro-Lime Coleslaw: Add a crunchy and tangy element to your plate with cilantro-lime coleslaw. The refreshing flavors of lime and cilantro beautifully complement the bold flavors of the fajitas.
  6. Roasted Vegetables: If you’re looking to up your veggie intake, roasted vegetables like zucchini, squash, and bell peppers make a colorful and nutritious addition. Season with your favorite herbs and spices for an extra kick.
  7. Fresh Fruit Salad: End your meal on a sweet note with a refreshing fruit salad. Choose a mix of seasonal fruits for a burst of natural sweetness that balances the savory fajitas.

Chicken fajitas are a culinary masterpiece that brings together tantalizing flavors, vibrant colors, and a burst of textures. Whether you’re managing diabetes or simply embracing a low-carb lifestyle, this dish caters to both your taste buds and nutritional needs. With the freedom to customize your spice blend, vegetable mix, and even protein source, chicken fajitas showcase the versatility that makes them a beloved choice among food enthusiasts. So, roll up your sleeves, fire up the skillet, and treat yourself to a plate of sizzling, mouthwatering chicken fajitas that embody both taste and health.

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Low-carb chicken fajitas in a large skillet garnished with avocado, cilantro, salsa, and sour cream.

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Recipe Rating




This Post Has 2 Comments

  1. 5 stars
    I really enjoyed this fajita seasoning marinade! Very tasty. Would the same fajita marinade work for steak fajitas? Or would you suggest any changes for steak?

    1. Thanks for your feedback, Sarah! And yes, you can use the fajita seasoning for steak fajitas also 🙂 I would use the recipe as is, just sub steak for chicken (or you can use both steak & chicken). Let us know how your steak fajitas turn out!