Name: Margarita Chicken Fajitas Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: For Fajita:; 4 chicken breasts; salt and pepper; ¼ cup olive oil; 3 bell peppers; 2 portabello mushroom caps; 1 white onion; flour tortillas; For Toppings:; Mexican Cheese; avocado slices; sour cream; lime wedges; fresh cilantro; For Marinade:; ½ cup tequila; ½ cup lime juice; ¼ cup orange juice; 1 tsp cumin; ¼ tsp cayenne

Margarita chicken fajitas are a delightful twist on the traditional fajita, infused with the vibrant flavors of tequila, lime juice, and orange juice. This dish brings a tangy and zesty kick that pairs perfectly with the savory chicken and fresh vegetables, creating a mouthwatering meal that's perfect for any occasion.

Photos of Margarita Chicken Fajitas Recipe

For this recipe, some ingredients may not be commonly found in every household. Tequila is a key element in the marinade, imparting a unique flavor. Portabello mushroom caps add a meaty texture to the fajitas, and make sure to get fresh cilantro for the toppings. These items should be available at most supermarkets.

Ingredients For Margarita Chicken Fajitas

Chicken breasts: The main protein, providing a lean and flavorful base for the fajitas.

Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of the dish.

Olive oil: Used for cooking the chicken and vegetables, adding richness to the dish.

Bell peppers: Colorful and crisp, these add sweetness and crunch to the fajitas.

Portabello mushroom caps: These mushrooms add a meaty texture and earthy flavor.

White onion: Provides a mild and slightly sweet flavor, balancing the dish.

Flour tortillas: The vessel for the fajita filling, soft and pliable.

Mexican cheese: A blend of cheeses that melts beautifully over the fajitas.

Avocado slices: Adds creaminess and a rich texture to the dish.

Sour cream: Provides a tangy and creamy contrast to the spiciness of the fajitas.

Lime wedges: Adds a burst of citrusy flavor when squeezed over the fajitas.

Fresh cilantro: Adds a fresh and slightly citrusy note, perfect for garnishing.

Tequila: Adds a distinctive flavor to the marinade, enhancing the overall taste.

Lime juice: A key component of the marinade, providing acidity and tang.

Orange juice: Adds sweetness and balances the acidity of the lime juice.

Cumin: A warm spice that adds depth and a hint of smokiness.

Cayenne: Adds a touch of heat and spiciness to the marinade.

One reader, Kilian Mcdonough says:

The margarita chicken fajitas recipe is fantastic! The marinade adds a delightful zing, and the combination of peppers, mushrooms, and onions is perfect. Easy to make and absolutely delicious. A new favorite in our household!

Kilian Mcdonough

Techniques for Making Margarita Chicken Fajitas

How to whisk together marinade ingredients: Combine the tequila, lime juice, orange juice, cumin, and cayenne in a small bowl and mix until well blended.

How to marinate chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large zip lock bag, pour the marinade over them, seal the bag, and toss to coat the chicken evenly. Refrigerate for at least 1 to 8 hours.

How to heat oil in a saucepan: Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to a large saucepan and heat over medium-high heat until the oil is hot but not smoking.

How to cook chicken breasts: Place the marinated chicken breasts in the hot oil and cook for 5 minutes without moving them. Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes until fully cooked.

How to cut chicken into strips: Once the chicken has cooled slightly, use a sharp knife to slice the chicken breasts into thin strips.

How to cook vegetables: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil to the pan and heat over medium-high heat. Add the bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions, and cook for 7 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are crisp-tender.

How to combine chicken and vegetables: Add the sliced chicken back to the pan with the cooked vegetables, drizzle with the reserved marinade, and stir to coat. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.

How to serve fajitas: Place the chicken and vegetable mixture in warm flour tortillas and top with Mexican cheese, avocado slices, sour cream, lime wedges, and fresh cilantro.

How To Make Margarita Chicken Fajitas

Make some flavorful fajitas by marinating chicken in margarita mix. The tangy flavor will provide a fresh taste for these tender and juicy chicken fajitas.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Marinate Time: 1 hour

Total: 1 hour 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Fajita:

4chicken breasts,boneless and skinless
salt and pepper
¼cupolive oil,divided
3bell peppers
2portabello mushroom caps,thinly sliced
1white onion,thinly sliced
flour tortillas

For Toppings:

Mexican cheese,shredded
avocado slices,or guacamole
sour cream
lime wedges
fresh cilantro,chopped

For Marinade:

½cuptequila
½cuplime juice,freshly-squeezed
¼cuporange juice,freshly-squeezed
1tspcumin
¼tspcayenne

Instructions

Marinade:

Whisk together the marinade ingredients in a small bowl. Remove 3 tablespoons of the marinade for later use, and add the remaining marinade to a large zip lock bag. Add the chicken, and toss to coat.
Refrigerate the mixture for at least 1 to 8 hours. Remove the chicken from the marinade, and season generously on both sides with salt and pepper.

Fajitas:

Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and let cook without touching for 5 minutes.
Flip the chicken breasts over, and cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes until no longer pink inside and juices run clear. Remove chicken and set aside on a plate to cool.
Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil to the pan and heat over medium-high heat. Add the peppers, mushrooms, and onions, and cook for about 7 to 10 minutes until crisp-tender, stirring frequently.
Cut the chicken into strips. When the vegetables are ready, add the chicken strips to the vegetable mixture.
Reduce the heat to medium-low, and drizzle with the reserved marinade and stir to coat. Cook for 2 minutes, then season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Serve warm in flour tortillas with toppings, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 406.60kcal
Fat: 23.80g
Saturated Fat: 4.91g
Trans Fat: 0.12g
Monounsaturated Fat: 13.52g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.77g
Carbohydrates: 12.33g
Fiber: 4.02g
Sugar: 5.03g
Protein: 26.08g
Cholesterol: 74.24mg
Sodium: 689.75mg
Calcium: 41.26mg
Potassium: 634.81mg
Iron: 1.85mg
Vitamin A: 136.50µg
Vitamin C: 94.65mg

Helpful Technique for Making Margarita Chicken Fajitas

When marinating chicken, ensure it is evenly coated by occasionally massaging the zip lock bag during the refrigeration period. This helps the marinade penetrate the meat more effectively, resulting in a more flavorful and tender fajita.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Fajitas

Marinate in advance: Prepare the marinade and chicken the night before to save time on busy days.

Pre-chop vegetables: Slice the bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions ahead of time and store them in the fridge.

Use pre-cooked chicken: Substitute with rotisserie chicken to cut down on cooking time.

One-pan cooking: Cook the chicken and vegetables in the same pan to save on cleanup.

Ready-made toppings: Use store-bought sour cream, avocado slices, and Mexican cheese for quick assembly.

Substitute Ingredients For Margarita Chicken Fajitas Recipe

chicken breasts - Substitute with turkey breasts: Turkey breasts offer a similar texture and can absorb marinades well, making them a suitable alternative.
olive oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good substitute for cooking.
bell peppers - Substitute with poblano peppers: Poblano peppers provide a slightly different flavor profile with a mild heat, adding a unique twist to the fajitas.
portabello mushroom caps - Substitute with cremini mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms have a similar texture and earthy flavor, making them a good alternative.
white onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onions have a slightly sweeter flavor and can be used interchangeably in most recipes.
flour tortillas - Substitute with corn tortillas: Corn tortillas offer a different texture and flavor, and are also gluten-free.
mexican cheese - Substitute with cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese melts well and has a sharp flavor that complements the other ingredients.
avocado slices - Substitute with guacamole: Guacamole provides a creamy texture and rich flavor, similar to fresh avocado slices.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt offers a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture, with added protein.
lime wedges - Substitute with lemon wedges: Lemon wedges provide a similar acidic brightness to the dish.
fresh cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley offers a fresh, slightly bitter flavor that can replace cilantro in most dishes.
tequila - Substitute with white wine: White wine can add a similar depth of flavor and acidity to the marinade.
lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice provides a similar tartness and acidity.
orange juice - Substitute with pineapple juice: Pineapple juice offers a sweet and tangy flavor that can complement the other marinade ingredients.
cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander has a slightly citrusy flavor that can mimic the earthiness of cumin.
cayenne - Substitute with paprika: Paprika provides a mild heat and smoky flavor, making it a good alternative to cayenne.

Presenting Margarita Chicken Fajitas

Marinate the chicken: Whisk together the marinade ingredients, including tequila, lime juice, orange juice, cumin, and cayenne. Remove 3 tablespoons of the marinade for later use, and add the remaining marinade to a large zip lock bag. Add the chicken breasts and toss to coat. Refrigerate for at least 1 to 8 hours.
Prepare the chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and season generously on both sides with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook without touching for 5 minutes. Flip the chicken breasts over and cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes until no longer pink inside and juices run clear. Remove chicken and set aside on a plate to cool.
Cook the vegetables: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the pan and heat over medium-high heat. Add the bell peppers, portabello mushroom caps, and white onion. Cook for about 7 to 10 minutes until crisp-tender, stirring frequently.
Combine chicken and vegetables: Cut the chicken into strips. When the vegetables are ready, add the chicken strips to the vegetable mixture. Reduce the heat to medium-low, drizzle with the reserved marinade, and stir to coat. Cook for 2 minutes, then season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Warm the tortillas: Warm the flour tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side until soft and pliable.
Plate the fajitas: On a large, elegant serving platter, arrange the chicken and vegetable mixture in the center. Surround with warm flour tortillas.
Add toppings: Serve with a variety of toppings including Mexican cheese, avocado slices, sour cream, lime wedges, and fresh cilantro. Arrange these toppings in small, stylish bowls around the platter for a visually appealing presentation.
Garnish and serve: Garnish the platter with additional fresh cilantro and a few lime wedges for a burst of color. Serve immediately to enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures.

Essential Tools for Making Fajitas

Whisk: To mix together the marinade ingredients until they are well combined.
Small bowl: For preparing the marinade.
Large zip lock bag: To marinate the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated and can be refrigerated easily.
Refrigerator: To marinate the chicken for at least 1 to 8 hours, allowing the flavors to infuse.
Large saucepan: For cooking the chicken breasts and later the vegetables.
Tongs: To flip the chicken breasts and stir the vegetables while cooking.
Plate: To set aside the cooked chicken breasts for cooling before slicing.
Knife: To cut the chicken into strips and slice the vegetables.
Cutting board: For slicing the chicken and vegetables safely.
Measuring cups: To measure out the tequila, lime juice, and orange juice for the marinade.
Measuring spoons: To measure out the cumin and cayenne for the marinade.
Wooden spoon: To stir the vegetables while they cook.
Serving platter: To serve the cooked fajitas with all the toppings.
Flour tortillas: To wrap the fajitas and enjoy the meal.

Storing and Freezing Margarita Chicken Fajitas

To store leftover margarita chicken fajitas, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
When ready to reheat, warm the fajitas in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in short intervals until warm.
For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken fajitas. Place the cooled mixture in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
Frozen margarita chicken fajitas can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
To thaw, transfer the container from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow it to defrost overnight.
Reheat the thawed fajitas in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a splash of water or chicken broth to help reconstitute the mixture and prevent it from drying out.
It's best to store the tortillas and toppings separately from the fajita mixture to maintain their quality and texture. Assemble the fajitas just before serving for the best results.

How To Reheat Leftover Fajitas

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the leftover chicken fajitas in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet. Heat in the oven for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This method helps to retain moisture and prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy.
For a quicker option, use a microwave. Place the leftover fajitas on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. The damp paper towel will help to keep the tortillas soft and prevent them from drying out.
If you have a skillet or griddle, reheat the fajitas on the stovetop. Heat a small amount of oil in the pan over medium heat. Add the chicken, peppers, mushrooms, and onions to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Warm the tortillas separately in the oven or on the stovetop.
For a crispy texture, reheat the chicken fajitas under the broiler. Preheat your broiler to high and place the leftover fajitas on a baking sheet. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the edges of the tortillas start to crisp up and the chicken and vegetables are heated through. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
If you have an air fryer, use it to reheat your leftover fajitas. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the fajitas in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy on the outside. This method is quick and helps to restore some of the original texture.

Interesting Fact About Margarita Chicken Fajitas

A fun fact about this margarita chicken fajitas recipe is that the marinade incorporates tequila, which not only adds a unique flavor but also helps to tenderize the chicken. The acidity from the lime juice and orange juice further enhances the tenderness and flavor, making the fajitas exceptionally delicious.

Is This Fajita Recipe Budget-Friendly?

This margarita chicken fajitas recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like chicken breasts, bell peppers, white onion, and flour tortillas are relatively affordable. Specialty items like tequila and avocado slices might add to the cost but are used in small quantities. Overall, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $25-$30 USD. Considering the flavor and satisfaction it brings, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness.

Are Margarita Chicken Fajitas Healthy or Unhealthy?

The margarita chicken fajitas recipe is a delicious and flavorful dish, but it does have some aspects that could be considered unhealthy. Here's a breakdown of the recipe's nutritional profile:

The marinade contains tequila, which is high in calories and sugar. However, the amount used is relatively small and most of the alcohol will cook off during the cooking process.
The recipe calls for a significant amount of olive oil, which is high in calories and fat. While olive oil is a healthier option compared to other oils, it should still be used in moderation.
The chicken breasts are a lean protein source, which is beneficial for overall health and weight management.
The bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions are all nutrient-dense vegetables that provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
The toppings, such as Mexican cheese, sour cream, and avocado slices, can add significant amounts of calories, fat, and sodium to the dish.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of olive oil used in the recipe, or opt for a cooking spray to minimize added fat.
Use low-fat or fat-free sour cream and cheese to reduce the calorie and fat content of the toppings.
Serve the fajitas with whole wheat tortillas instead of regular flour tortillas to increase the fiber content.
Add more vegetables to the fajita mixture, such as zucchini, carrots, or tomatoes, to boost the nutrient density of the dish.
Use a salt substitute or reduce the amount of added salt to minimize sodium intake.
Serve the fajitas with a side salad or roasted vegetables to create a more balanced meal.
Opt for fresh lime juice instead of orange juice in the marinade to reduce the sugar content slightly.

Editor's Opinion on This Fajita Recipe

This margarita chicken fajitas recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors. The tequila and citrus marinade adds a refreshing zing to the chicken, while the cumin and cayenne provide a subtle warmth. Cooking the vegetables to a crisp-tender texture ensures they retain their vibrant colors and flavors. The combination of toppings like Mexican cheese, avocado, and fresh cilantro enhances the dish, making each bite a burst of freshness. Overall, it's a well-balanced and flavorful dish that's perfect for a festive meal.

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

Mexican Street Corn: Mexican Street Corn: Imagine the smoky, charred kernels of corn slathered in a creamy, tangy mix of mayonnaise, cotija cheese, and a sprinkle of chili powder. This side dish brings a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the zesty margarita chicken fajitas.

Black Bean and Mango Salad: Black Bean and Mango Salad: A refreshing medley of black beans, juicy mango chunks, and crisp red bell peppers, all tossed in a zesty lime vinaigrette. This vibrant salad adds a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory fajitas.

Cilantro Lime Rice: Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy white rice infused with the bright flavors of fresh cilantro and lime juice. This simple yet flavorful side dish is the perfect base to soak up the delicious juices from the margarita chicken fajitas.

Spicy Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Spicy Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these sweet potatoes are roasted to perfection with a blend of smoked paprika, cumin, and a hint of cayenne pepper. They add a touch of sweetness and heat to your fajita feast.

Churros with Chocolate Sauce: Churros with Chocolate Sauce: End your meal on a sweet note with these golden, crispy churros dusted in cinnamon sugar. Dip them in a rich, velvety chocolate sauce for a dessert that will leave everyone craving more.

Similar Recipes to Margarita Chicken Fajitas

Tequila Lime Shrimp Tacos: Dive into these zesty shrimp tacos marinated in a tangy blend of tequila, lime juice, and spices. Serve with avocado slices, cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime for a refreshing twist.

Grilled Chicken Quesadillas: These quesadillas are packed with juicy grilled chicken, bell peppers, and onions. Melted Mexican cheese binds it all together in a crispy flour tortilla. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

Citrus Marinated Steak Fajitas: Savor the flavors of steak fajitas marinated in a citrusy blend of orange juice, lime juice, and spices. Cooked with bell peppers and onions, these fajitas are a hearty and flavorful option.

Spicy Chicken Tacos: Kick up the heat with these spicy chicken tacos. Marinated in a blend of cayenne, lime juice, and cumin, the chicken is grilled to perfection and served with sour cream, avocado, and cilantro.

Vegetarian Fajitas: For a meat-free option, try these vegetarian fajitas loaded with portobello mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions. Serve with flour tortillas, Mexican cheese, and a dollop of sour cream.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Margarita Chicken Fajitas

Appetizers:

Stuffed Jalapeños: Kick off your meal with these spicy jalapeños stuffed with a creamy blend of cheese and bacon. The jalapeños are roasted to perfection, giving them a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the rich filling. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of freshness. These are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Shrimp Ceviche: Delight your guests with a refreshing shrimp ceviche. This dish features succulent shrimp marinated in citrus juices, mixed with diced tomatoes, red onions, and cilantro. The tangy marinade not only cooks the shrimp but also infuses it with vibrant flavors. Serve with tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast, making it a perfect start to your meal.

Desserts:

Churros with Chocolate Sauce: Imagine ending your meal with crispy churros dipped in a rich, velvety chocolate sauce. The churros are golden and crunchy on the outside, yet soft and fluffy on the inside. The chocolate sauce adds a decadent touch, making each bite a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. Serve them warm, dusted with a generous amount of cinnamon sugar, and watch your guests' faces light up with joy.

Tres Leches Cake: Picture a moist and airy tres leches cake soaked in a luscious blend of three milks: evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream. This cake is topped with a light and fluffy whipped cream, adding a creamy layer that perfectly complements the rich, milky base. Garnish with fresh berries or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra burst of flavor and color. It's a delightful way to end any meal, leaving your guests satisfied and impressed.

Why trust this Margarita Chicken Fajitas Recipe:

This recipe combines the zesty flavors of tequila, lime juice, and orange juice to create a mouthwatering marinade that infuses the chicken with vibrant taste. The addition of fresh bell peppers, portabello mushrooms, and onions ensures a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Topped with creamy avocado slices, tangy sour cream, and a sprinkle of Mexican cheese, these fajitas are a fiesta in every bite. Trust this recipe for its balanced blend of spices and fresh ingredients, making it a surefire hit for any meal.

Share your thoughts on the Margarita Chicken Fajitas recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out!

FAQ:

How long should I marinate the chicken?

I recommend marinating the chicken for at least 1 hour, but if you have the time, letting it sit for up to 8 hours will really enhance the flavors.

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

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

What can I use if I don't have tequila?

If you don't have tequila, you can use a bit more lime juice or even a splash of apple cider vinegar. It won't be exactly the same, but it will still taste great.

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 check if the juices run clear and there's no pink inside.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and vegetables ahead of time and store them in the fridge. When you're ready to eat, just reheat everything in a pan and serve with fresh tortillas and toppings.