If you’re craving a meal that’s bursting with vibrant flavors, a perfect blend of tender chicken, sautéed veggies, and fresh toppings all wrapped up in a warm tortilla, then this Chicken Fajita Burrito Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It combines the smoky, zesty notes of traditional fajitas with the convenience and heartiness of a burrito, making it an ideal dish for a satisfying lunch or dinner. Whether you’re cooking for two or want to impress friends with something simple yet spectacular, this recipe hits all the right marks for flavor, texture, and ease.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Chicken Fajita Burrito Recipe are straightforward but essential, each playing a special role to create a colorful and mouthwatering meal. From the spices that deliver that signature fajita kick to the fresh vegetables that add crunch and brightness, every element is carefully chosen to make every bite a delight.
- Chili powder: Provides a warm, moderately spicy base flavor that’s essential for authentic fajitas.
- Paprika: Adds a mild smokiness and beautiful reddish hue to the marinade.
- Onion powder: Offers a gentle onion flavor that blends seamlessly with the other spices.
- Garlic powder: Brings a savory aroma that enhances the overall taste.
- Cumin: Gives an earthy, slightly nutty background that deepens the flavor profile.
- Sea salt: Balances and elevates all the other flavors in the dish.
- Lemon juice: Adds a bright acidity that tenderizes the chicken and lifts the marinade.
- Onion (medium, sliced): Sautéed until caramelized for sweetness and texture.
- Bell peppers (2 large, any color, sliced): Bring vibrant color and a mild crunch to the mix.
- Chicken breast (1 pound, sliced into strips): The protein star that absorbs the marinade and stays juicy.
- Fresh cilantro (¼ cup, chopped): Adds a fresh, herbaceous note for brightness.
- Avocado (½ medium, diced): Creamy texture and subtle richness that balances spice.
- Red onion (¼ medium, finely chopped): Provides a sharp contrast to the sweet peppers and onions.
- Diced tomatoes (¼ cup): Adds subtle juiciness and freshness.
- Low-carb tortillas (2 large, 12-inch): Soft and pliable wraps that hold everything together flawlessly.
- Reduced-fat shredded cheese (optional): For a melty, indulgent touch if you desire.
- Salsa (optional): Brings extra zesty flavor and moisture for serving.
How to Make Chicken Fajita Burrito Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Begin by mixing chili powder, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, cumin, sea salt, and freshly squeezed lemon juice in a bowl. This marinade is your flavor powerhouse, infusing the chicken with that irresistible fajita essence. Getting this blend right makes all the difference, so take a moment to mix well until you have a smooth, aromatic base.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Next, slide your chicken strips into the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. The magic happens when you let the chicken soak up all those spices and the bright acidity from the lemon for about 15 minutes. This simple step guarantees your chicken will be juicy and flavorful once cooked.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
While the chicken marinates, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers and cook them just until they soften and develop a touch of caramelization, about 5 minutes. The slight sweetness this technique brings out balances perfectly with the smoky chicken, so don’t rush this step!
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Using the same skillet, add your marinated chicken strips and cook them for 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally until they are cooked through and no longer pink inside. The skillet retains some of the vegetable flavors, which makes the chicken taste even better. Once cooked, remove everything from heat and get ready for assembly.
Step 5: Assemble the Burritos
Warm your tortillas to make them flexible and easy to roll—this can be done in a microwave or a dry skillet. Lay each tortilla flat and start layering with diced avocado for creaminess, followed by the cooked chicken strips, then the sautéed onions and peppers. Sprinkle on the chopped cilantro, finely diced red onion, and juicy tomatoes. If you like, add a bit of shredded reduced-fat cheese and a spoonful of salsa to take your chicken fajita burrito recipe over the top. Fold the sides and roll tightly into a neat burrito ready to enjoy.
Step 6: Serve
Cutting your burritos in half is optional but makes for a great presentation. Serve immediately while warm, accompanied by extra salsa or a squeeze of fresh lime juice for that added zing. This is the moment where all your work comes to life in a fabulous flavor explosion.
How to Serve Chicken Fajita Burrito Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes is a fantastic way to brighten your burrito both visually and taste-wise. Fresh lime wedges, sour cream, or a dollop of Greek yogurt complement the spicy and savory components beautifully. A sprinkle of extra cilantro or a few slices of jalapeño can add a fresh and sometimes fiery twist, perfect for sharing with friends who love a little heat.
Side Dishes
To complete your meal, consider sides that enhance but don’t overpower the chicken fajita burrito recipe. Mexican-style rice or a light black bean salad works wonderfully, adding texture and nutrition. For a simple, fresh option, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette refreshes the palate and balances the richness of the burrito.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation can turn this everyday dish into a party favorite. Try serving your burritos sliced on a colorful platter with small bowls of salsa, guacamole, and sour cream arranged around. For gatherings, wrapping them in foil and placing them in a basket with fresh herbs as decoration looks inviting and makes serving easy. You could also transform your ingredients into a burrito bowl for a low-carb alternative that’s just as satisfying.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have extra Chicken Fajita Burrito Recipe leftovers, store the assembled burritos or components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken and veggies will keep beautifully for up to 3 days, ensuring you have a ready-to-eat, delicious meal waiting when you need it most.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sautéed vegetables in freezer-safe bags or containers. Tortillas freeze well too but are best thawed gently to avoid becoming soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator to preserve the flavor and texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat to keep the chicken tender and the vegetables fresh. If your burrito is assembled, wrap it in foil before warming in the oven or toaster oven to evenly heat the filling without drying out the tortilla. Microwave reheating works in a pinch but can sometimes affect texture.
FAQs
Can I use different types of chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breast works great for this recipe, you can also use chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! You can swap the chicken for hearty vegetables like portobello mushrooms, zucchini, or even seasoned tofu. Following the same spice blend will keep the fajita flavors intact.
What’s the best way to keep the tortillas from getting soggy?
Warming your tortillas before filling them helps prevent sogginess by making them pliable and less likely to absorb moisture quickly. Also, avoid adding wet ingredients directly onto the tortillas without a barrier like avocado or cheese.
Can I prepare the marinade and chicken ahead of time?
Definitely. Preparing the marinade and letting the chicken soak overnight in the refrigerator can deepen the flavor even more. Just be sure to cook the chicken within 24 hours for the best quality and safety.
What are some good salsa options to serve with this recipe?
Fresh tomato salsa, pico de gallo, or a smoky chipotle salsa pairs excellently with this dish. You can also experiment with fruit-based salsas like mango or pineapple for a sweet and spicy contrast.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely hope you enjoy making and eating this Chicken Fajita Burrito Recipe as much as I love sharing it. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both simple and satisfying, perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekends. Once you experience the harmony of spices, textures, and fresh flavors all wrapped in a warm tortilla, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and bring this delicious fiesta to your table!
Print
Chicken Fajita Burrito Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
This Chicken Fajita Burrito recipe offers a quick and flavorful meal packed with tender marinated chicken, sautéed bell peppers and onions, fresh avocado, and vibrant toppings, all wrapped in a low-carb tortilla. Perfect for a filling lunch or dinner, it balances bold spices with fresh ingredients for a satisfying Mexican-inspired burrito experience.
Ingredients
Spices and Marinade
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- Juice of 1 large lemon
Vegetables and Toppings
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- ½ medium avocado, diced
- ¼ medium red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup diced tomatoes
Protein
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced into strips
Other
- 2 large (12-inch) low-carb tortillas
- Reduced-fat shredded cheese (optional)
- Salsa (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine chili powder, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, cumin, sea salt, and lemon juice. Mix well to form the marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the sliced chicken breast into the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Sauté the Vegetables: While the chicken is marinating, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers and sauté until tender and slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In the same skillet, add the marinated chicken strips and cook for 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the Burritos: Warm the low-carb tortillas in a microwave or on a skillet to make them pliable. Lay each tortilla flat and spread a layer of diced avocado in the center. Add a portion of the cooked chicken on top of the avocado. Top with sautéed onions and bell peppers. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro, diced red onion, and diced tomatoes. Optionally, add reduced-fat shredded cheese and a spoonful of salsa. Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll tightly to form a burrito.
- Serve: Cut each burrito in half, if desired. Serve immediately with extra salsa or a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Notes
- For a spicier burrito, add some cayenne pepper to the marinade.
- Use any color of bell peppers you prefer to customize the flavor and appearance.
- If low-carb tortillas are not available, whole wheat or regular flour tortillas can be used.
- The burritos can be wrapped in foil and refrigerated for up to 2 days.
- Adding reduced-fat shredded cheese and salsa is optional but enhances flavor.
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
