Go Back

No-Fuss Summer Chicken Fajita Bar

A build-your-own fajita bar with grilled lime-cilantro chicken, charred peppers and onions, and a spread of fresh toppings. Perfect for casual summer entertaining with minimal fuss.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • For the chicken: 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts 3 tablespoons olive oil, 2 limes (juice and zest), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. For the veggies: 2 bell peppers (any colors), 1 large red onion, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt. For serving: 12 small flour or corn tortillas, 1 cup sour cream, 1 cup guacamole, 1 cup salsa, 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese, 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, 2 limes (cut into wedges).

Equipment

  • grill or grill pan
  • mixing bowls
  • cutting board
  • chef's knife
  • tongs
  • serving platters
  • small bowls for toppings

Method
 

  1. Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, whisk olive oil, lime juice and zest, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts, coat well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes (up to 2 hours). 2. While chicken marinates, slice bell peppers into 1/2-inch strips and red onion into 1/2-inch wedges. Toss with olive oil and salt. 3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F). 4. Grill chicken 6-7 minutes per side, until internal temperature reaches 165°F and juices run clear. Let rest 5 minutes, then slice against the grain into strips. 5. Meanwhile, grill pepper strips and onion wedges 4-5 minutes per side, until charred and tender. 6. Warm tortillas on the grill for 30 seconds per side, or wrap in foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes. 7. Arrange sliced chicken, grilled veggies, and all toppings in separate bowls. Let everyone build their own fajitas.

Notes

For a spicier kick, add a minced jalapeño to the marinade or offer sliced fresh jalapeños as a topping. Leftover chicken and veggies keep in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in a skillet. Warm tortillas just before serving to keep them pliable. If using flour tortillas, you can also char them directly over a gas burner for a smoky flavor.