Name: Healthy Chicken Fajitas Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 16 oz chicken strip; orange bell pepper; ½ red bell pepper; ½ green bell pepper; ½ white onion; 1 cup low sodium chicken broth; 2 cups quinoa; 1 tbsp mongolian sauce; 1 tsp olive oil; ½ tsp garlic; For Seasoning:; 1 lemon; 1 tsp pepper; ½ tsp Cayenne pepper; ½ tsp red chili flakes; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp onion powder

Transform your weeknight dinners with this healthy chicken fajitas recipe. It's a delightful fusion of vibrant peppers, tender chicken strips, and nutritious quinoa. This dish is not only packed with flavor but also brims with essential nutrients, making it a wholesome option for the entire family.

Photos of Healthy Chicken Fajitas Recipe

A key ingredient you might not have in your kitchen is mongolian sauce, which adds a unique depth of flavor to the dish. Additionally, quinoa might be new to some, but it's readily available in most supermarkets and is a fantastic high-protein, gluten-free grain. Make sure to get low sodium chicken broth to keep the dish healthy.

Ingredients For Healthy Chicken Fajitas Recipe

Chicken strips: Lean protein source that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well.

Orange bell pepper: Adds a sweet and vibrant color to the dish.

Red bell pepper: Provides additional sweetness and a pop of color.

Green bell pepper: Balances the sweetness of the orange and red peppers with a slight bitterness.

White onion: Offers a mild and slightly sweet flavor that complements the peppers.

Low sodium chicken broth: Keeps the dish light and healthy while adding moisture.

Quinoa: A high-protein grain that is gluten-free and has a nutty flavor.

Mongolian sauce: Adds a unique savory and slightly sweet taste to the dish.

Olive oil: Healthy fat used for sautéing.

Garlic: Provides a robust and aromatic flavor base for the dish.

Lemon: Adds a fresh and zesty brightness to the seasoning.

Pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth to the seasoning.

Cayenne pepper: Gives a spicy kick to the seasoning.

Red chili flakes: Adds heat and texture to the seasoning.

Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.

Garlic powder: Provides an extra layer of garlic flavor in the seasoning.

Onion powder: Adds a subtle onion flavor to the seasoning.

One reader, Kendricks Granados says:

This healthy chicken fajitas recipe is fantastic! The flavors are vibrant, and the mix of spices is perfect. The quinoa adds a great texture and makes it even more nutritious. It's a quick and delicious meal that my whole family loves. Highly recommend!

Kendricks Granados

Mastering the Art of Fajita Making

How to sauté garlic: Heat olive oil in a pan and cook the garlic until fragrant, usually about 1 minute, to avoid burning. How to mix seasonings: Combine the chicken strips with the specified seasonings and lemon juice to ensure even coating. How to cook quinoa: Follow package instructions to cook quinoa, typically involving rinsing, boiling in water or broth, and simmering until tender. How to cook chicken and vegetables: Add seasoned chicken and peppers to the pan, cover, and cook until the chicken is done and the peppers are tender. How to mix sauces: Combine the Mongolian sauce with the cooked quinoa to infuse flavor.

How To Make Healthy Chicken Fajitas

For this fajitas recipe, chicken and quinoa are used in place of the usual beef and tortillas, making it low-carb and low cholesterol.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

16ozchicken stripcooked
orange bell pepperjulienned
½ red bell pepperjulienned
½ green bell pepperjulienned
½ white onionjulienned
1cuplow sodium chicken broth
2cupsquinoacooked
1tbspmongolian sauce
1tspolive oil
½ tspgarlicminced

For Seasoning:

1lemonjuiced
1tsppepper
½ tspcayenne pepper
½ tspred chili flakes
½ tspsalt
½ tspgarlic powder
½ tsponion powder

Instructions

Mix chicken strips with seasonings and lemon juice and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a medium pan on medium heat and add the garlic, sautéing for about 1 minute. Quickly add the chicken broth and stir to avoid burning the garlic.
Add in the chicken and peppers, cover and cook on medium for about 5 minutes.
Then, add onion and remove from heat once the broth is bubbling and the peppers look fully cooked.
Mix Mongolian sauce with quinoa.
Serve chicken and veggies alongside prepared quinoa.

Nutrition

Calories: 679.74kcal
Fat: 23.21g
Saturated Fat: 3.84g
Trans Fat: 0.06g
Monounsaturated Fat: 7.95g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 9.89g
Carbohydrates: 83.75g
Fiber: 9.58g
Sugar: 1.53g
Protein: 36.61g
Cholesterol: 54.43mg
Sodium: 899.91mg
Calcium: 90.68mg
Potassium: 1127.14mg
Iron: 5.60mg
Vitamin A: 79.51µg
Vitamin C: 13.16mg

Expert Advice for Achieving Fajita Perfection

To ensure your chicken strips are tender and flavorful, marinate them in the seasoning and lemon juice for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This allows the acids in the lemon to break down the proteins in the chicken, resulting in a more tender texture.

Time-Saving Hacks for Preparing Healthy Chicken Fajitas

Prep ingredients ahead: Chop the bell peppers, onion, and garlic in advance to save time during cooking.

Use pre-cooked quinoa: Purchase pre-cooked quinoa or cook it the night before to cut down on preparation time.

Marinate overnight: Mix the chicken strips with seasonings and lemon juice the night before to enhance flavor and save time.

One-pan method: Use a large pan to cook everything together, reducing the number of dishes to clean.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and store leftovers for quick meals throughout the week.

Substitute Ingredients For Healthy Chicken Fajitas Recipe

chicken strip - Substitute with tofu strips: Tofu is a great plant-based protein that can absorb flavors well, making it a suitable substitute for chicken.
orange bell pepper - Substitute with yellow bell pepper: Yellow bell peppers have a similar sweetness and crunch as orange bell peppers.
red bell pepper - Substitute with poblano pepper: Poblano peppers add a mild heat and a slightly different flavor profile, which can add some variety to the dish.
green bell pepper - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini provides a similar texture and can absorb the seasoning well.
white onion - Substitute with red onion: Red onions offer a slightly sweeter taste and add a pop of color to the dish.
low sodium chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth is a good alternative for those looking to make the dish vegetarian or vegan.
quinoa - Substitute with brown rice: Brown rice is a whole grain that provides a similar nutritional profile and texture.
mongolian sauce - Substitute with teriyaki sauce: Teriyaki sauce offers a similar sweet and savory flavor, making it a good alternative.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and is rich in healthy fats, making it a suitable replacement.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, slightly sweet flavor that can complement the other ingredients well.
lemon - Substitute with lime: Lime offers a similar acidic and citrusy flavor, adding a fresh zest to the dish.
pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a slightly different flavor but can still provide the necessary heat and spice.
cayenne pepper - Substitute with paprika: Paprika offers a milder heat and a smoky flavor, which can add depth to the dish.
red chili flakes - Substitute with crushed black pepper: Crushed black pepper can add a different kind of heat and complexity to the dish.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a more nuanced flavor and is often considered a healthier option.
garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder can provide a similar depth of flavor and is a good alternative if garlic is not available.
onion powder - Substitute with celery salt: Celery salt can add a unique flavor and a bit of saltiness, making it a good substitute.

Serving Suggestions for a Delightful Fajita Experience

Use a large, white plate: The simplicity of a white plate will make the vibrant colors of the chicken and vegetables pop, creating a visually appealing contrast.
Layer the quinoa: Create a bed of quinoa in the center of the plate. Use a ring mold to shape it into a neat circle or square for a professional look.
Arrange the chicken and vegetables artistically: Place the chicken strips and peppers in a fan-like pattern around the quinoa. Ensure the orange bell pepper, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and white onion are evenly distributed for a colorful presentation.
Drizzle with sauce: Lightly drizzle some mongolian sauce over the chicken and vegetables to add a glossy finish and enhance the flavor.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a touch of freshness by garnishing with finely chopped cilantro or parsley. This will add a pop of green and elevate the dish's presentation.
Add a lemon wedge: Place a lemon wedge on the side of the plate. This not only adds a burst of color but also allows diners to squeeze fresh lemon juice over their fajitas for an extra zing.
Serve with a side of salsa: Offer a small ramekin of fresh salsa on the side. This adds an additional layer of flavor and texture to the dish.
Finish with a sprinkle of spices: Lightly dust the plate with a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for a final touch of color and heat.

Essential Kitchen Gadgets for Crafting the Perfect Fajitas

Medium pan: Used to sauté the garlic and cook the chicken and vegetables.
Mixing bowl: Used to mix the chicken strips with the seasonings and lemon juice.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the seasonings and olive oil.
Cutting board: Used to chop the bell peppers, onion, and garlic.
Chef's knife: Used to cut the chicken strips and vegetables.
Wooden spoon: Used to stir the garlic, chicken broth, and other ingredients in the pan.
Lid: Used to cover the pan while cooking the chicken and vegetables.
Saucepan: Used to cook the quinoa separately.
Measuring cup: Used to measure the chicken broth and quinoa.
Serving dish: Used to serve the cooked chicken, vegetables, and quinoa.

Preserving the Flavors: Storage and Freezing Guidelines

Allow the chicken fajitas to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. This will help prevent moisture from accumulating and keep the fajitas fresh.
Store the cooled chicken fajitas in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to place them in the coldest part of the fridge, usually the back, to maintain their quality and freshness.
If you want to freeze the chicken fajitas for later consumption, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. This will help prevent freezer burn and maintain their flavor and texture.
When freezing, it's a good idea to portion the chicken fajitas into individual servings or meal-sized portions. This allows you to thaw only what you need, reducing waste and making meal prep more convenient.
Label the container or bag with the date of freezing and the contents, so you can easily keep track of how long they've been stored.
Frozen chicken fajitas can be kept in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Beyond that, the quality may start to deteriorate, although they will still be safe to eat.
To reheat frozen chicken fajitas, first, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat until they are heated through and the peppers and onions are tender. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

How To Reheat Leftover Fajitas

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover chicken fajitas in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Heat in the oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken and vegetables are heated through. This method helps to retain moisture and prevent the chicken from drying out.
For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place the leftover healthy chicken fajitas in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken and peppers are heated through. Stir the dish halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
If you prefer a crispy texture, reheat the chicken fajitas in a skillet on the stovetop. Heat a small amount of olive oil in the skillet over medium heat. Add the leftover chicken and vegetables, stirring occasionally, until heated through and slightly crispy. This method works well if you want to add some extra flavor or crispiness to the dish.
For a more flavorful reheating option, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the leftover healthy chicken fajitas before reheating. This will help to keep the chicken moist and add some extra flavor to the dish. You can also add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs to brighten up the flavors.
If you have leftover quinoa, you can reheat it separately in the microwave or on the stovetop. To microwave, place the quinoa in a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. To reheat on the stovetop, place the quinoa in a small saucepan with a splash of water or chicken broth, and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Fascinating Trivia About Fajitas You Might Not Know

A random fact about this recipe is that quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids. This makes it an excellent choice for a balanced and nutritious meal when paired with chicken and vegetables.

Budget-Friendly Chicken Fajitas: A Smart Choice for Home Cooks

This healthy chicken fajitas recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The use of chicken strips and a variety of bell peppers ensures a nutritious meal without breaking the bank. The inclusion of quinoa adds a healthy grain component, while the low sodium chicken broth and minimal use of olive oil keep costs down. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $20-$25 USD.

Are Chicken Fajitas Good for You?

This healthy chicken fajitas recipe is a nutritious and well-balanced meal. The use of lean chicken strips provides a good source of protein, while the colorful bell peppers and onions offer a variety of vitamins and minerals. The quinoa serves as a wholesome, gluten-free alternative to traditional tortillas, adding fiber and complex carbohydrates to the dish. The seasonings, such as garlic, cayenne pepper, and red chili flakes, not only add flavor but also have potential health benefits like boosting metabolism and aiding digestion.

However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to make it even healthier:

Consider using a low-sodium or homemade Mongolian sauce to reduce the overall sodium content of the dish
Increase the proportion of vegetables to chicken to boost the fiber and nutrient content
Opt for a healthier cooking method, such as grilling or baking the chicken and vegetables, to minimize the use of oil
Include a variety of other nutrient-dense toppings, such as:
- Fresh cilantro for added flavor and antioxidants
- Diced tomatoes for a boost of lycopene and vitamin C
- Sliced avocado for healthy fats and a creamy texture
- A squeeze of lime juice for brightness and vitamin C

By incorporating these suggestions, you can elevate the nutritional value of this already healthy chicken fajitas recipe, making it an even more well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Our Editor's Take on This Mouthwatering Fajita Recipe

This recipe offers a balanced and nutritious take on chicken fajitas, incorporating vibrant bell peppers and quinoa for added health benefits. The use of low sodium chicken broth and a variety of spices ensures a flavorful dish without excessive salt. However, the inclusion of Mongolian sauce is unconventional for fajitas and might overshadow the traditional flavors. Consider replacing it with a more typical fajita seasoning or a homemade sauce to maintain authenticity. Overall, it's a creative and healthy twist on a classic dish.

Enhance Your Healthy Chicken Fajitas Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Corn Salad: Grilled Corn Salad: Imagine the smoky sweetness of grilled corn mingling with the crispness of fresh herbs. This vibrant salad brings a burst of color and flavor that perfectly complements the savory chicken fajitas.

Avocado Lime Soup: Avocado Lime Soup: A chilled, creamy soup with the tang of lime and the richness of avocado. This refreshing dish adds a cool contrast to the warm, spicy notes of the fajitas.

Mango Salsa: Mango Salsa: Sweet, juicy mango paired with a hint of jalapeño and a squeeze of lime. This salsa adds a tropical twist and a pop of color to your plate, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Black Bean and Corn Quesadillas: Black Bean and Corn Quesadillas: Crispy tortillas filled with a hearty mix of black beans and corn. These quesadillas offer a delightful crunch and a satisfying, protein-packed bite alongside your chicken fajitas.

Cilantro Lime Rice: Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with the zesty flavors of cilantro and lime. This aromatic side dish provides a fragrant and refreshing complement to the bold spices of the fajitas.

Discover Delicious Variations on the Classic Fajita

Grilled Chicken and Vegetable Skewers: Fire up the grill for these colorful and nutritious skewers! Marinate chicken breast chunks in a zesty blend of lemon juice, olive oil, and spices. Thread the chicken onto skewers with vibrant bell peppers, red onions, and zucchini. Grill until the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender. Serve with a side of quinoa or a fresh salad.

Spicy Chicken and Black Bean Tacos: Transform your taco night with these spicy and satisfying tacos! Season chicken strips with a mix of cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and lime juice. Sauté the chicken with black beans and corn until everything is heated through. Serve in warm corn tortillas and top with avocado slices, cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime.

Lemon Herb Chicken and Asparagus: This light and flavorful dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Marinate chicken breasts in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Sauté the chicken until golden brown, then add asparagus spears and cook until tender. Serve with a side of brown rice or whole grain pasta.

Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry: Whip up a quick and healthy stir-fry with this easy recipe. Stir-fry chicken strips with a medley of broccoli, carrots, snap peas, and bell peppers. Toss everything in a savory soy sauce and ginger sauce. Serve over a bed of brown rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

Mediterranean Chicken and Quinoa Bowl: Create a vibrant and nutritious bowl with Mediterranean flavors. Season chicken breast with oregano, garlic, and lemon juice. Grill or sauté the chicken until cooked through. Serve over a bed of quinoa with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, feta cheese, and a drizzle of tzatziki sauce.

Starters and Desserts That Perfectly Pair With Fajitas

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers: Delight your guests with these vibrant stuffed mini bell peppers. The colorful bell peppers are filled with a creamy mixture of goat cheese and herbs, creating a perfect balance of flavors. The crunchy texture of the peppers combined with the smooth filling makes for an irresistible bite. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped chives and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elegant touch.

Avocado Shrimp Cups: These avocado shrimp cups are a refreshing and light appetizer that will impress your guests. The creamy avocado is paired with succulent shrimp, tossed in a zesty lime dressing. Serve in endive leaves or mini phyllo cups for a delightful presentation. Top with a sprinkle of cilantro and a dash of paprika for an extra burst of flavor.

Desserts:

Chocolate Avocado Mousse: Indulge in a creamy and rich dessert that combines the velvety texture of avocado with the deep, satisfying flavor of dark chocolate. This mousse is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a nutrient-dense option, packed with healthy fats and antioxidants. The subtle sweetness from a touch of maple syrup or honey perfectly balances the bitterness of the cocoa, creating a harmonious blend that will leave you craving more. Serve it chilled with a sprinkle of sea salt or a dollop of whipped coconut cream for an extra layer of indulgence.

Berry Chia Pudding: Experience a refreshing and nutritious dessert that combines the natural sweetness of berries with the superfood power of chia seeds. This pudding is a delightful mix of textures, with the crunchiness of the chia seeds contrasting beautifully with the smoothness of the blended berries. Infused with a hint of vanilla and a splash of almond milk, this dessert is not only delicious but also a great source of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. Top it with a handful of fresh berries and a drizzle of honey for an extra burst of flavor and color.

Why trust this Healthy Chicken Fajitas Recipe:

This recipe combines lean chicken strips with a colorful mix of bell peppers and onions, ensuring a nutritious and flavorful meal. The use of low sodium chicken broth and quinoa makes it a heart-healthy option. Seasoned with a blend of spices and lemon juice, it offers a zesty kick without excessive salt. The addition of mongolian sauce adds a unique twist, making this dish both delicious and wholesome.

Share your thoughts on this healthy chicken fajitas recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to make it even better!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with beef, shrimp, or even tofu if you're looking for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can also cut into a piece to check that it's no longer pink inside.

Can I prepare the quinoa in advance?

Yes, you can cook the quinoa ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just mix it with the Mongolian sauce when you're ready to serve.

What can I use if I don't have Mongolian sauce?

If you don't have Mongolian sauce, you can use a mix of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and a bit of honey as a substitute. It won't be exactly the same, but it'll still be delicious.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To make it spicier, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper and red chili flakes. You can also add some fresh chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.