Healthy and Easy Chicken Fajita Pita Recipe
Welcome, foodies, to my latest culinary creation: the Chicken Fajita Pita recipe! Are you ready to indulge in a burst of savory and zesty flavors that will tingle your taste buds? Look no further than this dish that combines the sizzling sensation of fajitas and the softness of pita bread.
If you’re looking for a meal that is quick and easy to make, but also jam-packed with nutrients, then this recipe is perfect for you. In just under thirty minutes, you’ll have a meal that is not only satisfying but also healthy! Using lean boneless, skinless chicken breasts and plenty of vegetables like onions, yellow bell peppers, and red bell peppers, this dish is high in protein and vitamins.
Whether you’re cooking for oneself or feeding a crowd, this recipe will be sure to impress your guests. The fresh sizzle from the skillet combined with the warm pockets of pita bursting with flavor will make for an unforgettable dining experience.
So go ahead and give it a try – elevate your palate with this delicious Chicken Fajita Pita recipe. Get cooking and let’s start making memories around the dinner table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you a fan of chicken fajitas but tired of the same old routine? Let me introduce you to my twist on this classic dish: the Chicken Fajita Pita. This recipe is a mashup of your favorite fajita flavors tucked neatly into a warm pita pocket, making it the perfect on-the-go meal.
One reason you’ll love this recipe is its adaptability. Not a fan of pitas? No problem, simply use tortillas instead. Want to make it into a breakfast dish? Add some scrambled eggs and top it off with some hearty salsa. This recipe also meets dietary restrictions as it can be modified for vegetarians or made gluten-free by substituting the pita for a GF-friendly option.
This recipe is also incredibly easy to make. With only a few simple steps, you can have restaurant-quality fajitas right in your own home. Plus, each serving packs in 400 calories, so you can indulge without feeling guilty.
But what truly sets this recipe apart is its flavor. Tender grilled chicken is paired with colorful peppers and onions that are seasoned to perfection with a blend of spices and low-sodium soy sauce. The lovely citrusy tang from the lime juice is perfectly balanced with the sweetness of roasted bell peppers.
With every bite, the flavor explosion will take your taste buds on a journey like never before. And if that’s not enough, feel free to customize your creation by adding some shredded cheddar cheese, lettuce or homemade roasted salsa on top.
Overall, this Chicken Fajita Pita recipe is an innovative way to elevate your traditional fajita dinner routine. Its quick prep time, versatility, health benefits and delicious flavors will leave you wanting more and keeping you coming back for seconds (and thirds). Trust me; this is one recipe you don’t want to miss out on!
Ingredient List
Before we start cooking, let’s make sure we have everything we need. For this Chicken Fajita Pita Recipe, here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound), sliced into strips
- 1 large onion and 1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 teaspoons fajita seasoning
- 4 pita bread pockets (6-inch), halved
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, lettuce, chopped tomato, roasted salsa
Now that we have everything ready let’s keep moving to the next section where I’ll show you why you’ll love this recipe.
The Recipe How-To
Now let’s dive right into the most exciting part of this article – the recipe! I assure you that this Chicken Fajita Pita recipe is going to blow your mind! So, gear up and preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) because we’re about to get started.
Ingredients:
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 medium-sized onion, sliced
- 2 medium-sized bell peppers, sliced
- 2 tbsp. of olive oil, divided
- 2 tsp. of fajita seasoning
- 4 pita pockets
- Shredded cheddar cheese or lettuce, for topping (optional)
- Roasted salsa or any of your favorite dip, for serving
Instructions:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add one tablespoon of olive oil. When the oil is hot enough, add the sliced onion and cook for around 3-4 minutes until slightly soft.
- Next, add the sliced bell peppers and continue cooking for another five to six minutes. Once the vegetables have softened a bit, remove them from the heat and place them in a separate dish.
- Using the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil, followed by chicken breasts that have been cut into thin strips. Cook each side for three to four minutes on high heat or until they are no longer pink and are nicely browned.
- Add the fajita seasoning to the cooked chicken and allow it cook for an additional minute or two so that all flavors blend in nicely.
- Assemble the fajita pitas by stuffing each pita with slices of grilled steak and sautéed onion and pepper mixture; adding shredded cheddar cheese or lettuce is totally optional.
- Serve hot with your favorite roasted salsa or dip.
The Chicken Fajita Pitas are a complete delight to tuck into after a long day at work or when you are craving something tasty yet healthy. You can be as creative as you want with toppings which makes it perfect for family dinners or hosting small food gatherings. Share this recipe with your friends so they too can relish in its goodness!
Substitutions and Variations
Are you feeling adventurous in the kitchen? Then it’s time to try something new with your Chicken Fajita Pita Recipe! I, Ehud, am all about experimenting with different flavors and ingredients, and this recipe offers a world of opportunities for customization.
If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can switch it up with beef or steak fajitas instead. Beef fajitas can add a rich meaty taste, while steak fajitas can bring a unique tender flavor that you won’t want to miss out on. Or, if you’re looking for a healthier option, replace the chicken meat with grilled tofu or portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
Feeling spicy? Add some diced jalapenos, chipotle peppers or hot sauce to your Chicken Fajita Pita to give it a little heat. On the other hand, if you prefer milder flavors, swap out spicy ingredients for sweet peppers or sliced mangos. You could even include pineapple chunks for an extra tropical kick!
To add more color and texture to your Chicken Fajita Pita Recipe, feel free to mix and match vegetables. This recipe calls for onions and bell peppers, but you can also add carrots, zucchini squash or even eggplant to the filling mixture – the possibilities are endless! Don’t be afraid to experiment and explore!
And finally, let’s talk about dressing up your fajita pitas. Instead of using shredded cheddar cheese and lettuce as toppings in your recipe, try guacamole, queso fresco cheese, sour cream, or salsa verde. A dollop of Greek yogurt is also a great healthy alternative.
As always, use your intuition when it comes to substitutions and blending flavors. Get adventurous in the kitchen – after all, cooking is all about having fun!
Serving and Pairing
The chicken fajita pita recipe is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of other foods to create a complete and satisfying meal. When it comes to serving, the options are endless!
I love to serve the chicken fajita pitas alongside some roasted salsa, shredded lettuce, and cheddar cheese. The combination of these fresh ingredients with the warm and savory flavors of the fajita pitas is simply divine.
For a heartier meal, you could also serve the fajita pitas with some Spanish rice or black beans on the side. The rich and bold notes of the beans or rice add a nice contrast to the tangy and spicy flavors of the chicken fajita itself.
If you are looking for a lighter option, consider pairing the chicken fajita pita recipe with a simple mixed greens salad. The bright and crisp flavors of the leafy greens complement the smoky and charred notes of the grilled chicken in every bite.
In terms of drinks, I recommend pairing this dish with a refreshing limeade or Margarita cocktail. The citrus notes help cut through the richness of the chicken and balance out its savory flavors. Alternatively, you could also pair this dish with a cold beer or iced-tea during hot summer months.
The versatility of this dish makes it perfect for any occasion – be it for breakfast, lunch or dinner. So next time you are looking for a delicious meal idea that can be served at any time of day, give this chicken fajita pita recipe a try!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Nothing beats the convenience of having a delicious and healthy meal ready to go when you are short on time or simply don’t feel like cooking. With the Chicken Fajita Pita recipe, you can easily prepare most of the components in advance and store them until you are ready to assemble your fajita pitas.
To make the chicken fajita filling ahead of time, simply cook the chicken breasts, onion, and bell peppers according to the recipe instructions. Once ready, transfer the mixture to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use a microwave or a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
The pita bread can also be prepared ahead of time by wrapping them in foil or plastic wrap and storing them at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you prefer a warm and slightly crispy texture, heat them up in a toaster oven for 1-2 minutes before serving.
If you have leftover chicken fajita filling, you can easily transform them into other dishes such as salads or burrito bowls. Simply layer the chicken fajita mixture onto a bed of greens or rice and top with your favorite toppings such as avocado, salsa or shredded cheese.
For those who want to meal prep several servings at once, consider assembling the fajita pitas in advance by placing some chicken fajita filling onto each pita bread and wrapping them tightly in foil or plastic wrap. You can then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, remove from wrapping and heat up the wrapped pitas in the oven at 300°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Whether you’re meal prepping for busy weekdays or entertaining friends and family members, the versatility and convenience of this Chicken Fajita Pita recipe make it an excellent choice for any occasion.
Tips for Perfect Results
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, it is time to cook like a pro. Here are some tips to make sure your chicken fajita pita turns out perfect every time.
Firstly, it’s important to choose the right cut of chicken. For this recipe, I recommend boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook quickly and evenly and are not too heavy on calories. Make sure to slice them into thin strips to allow for even cooking and easy assembly in your pita pockets.
Secondly, don’t overcook your vegetables. Overcooking them will make them mushy and lose their vibrant colors. Instead, sauté them for a few minutes until they are slightly tender but still have a crunch. Resist the temptation to overcrowd the pan as this can steam the vegetables rather than giving them that lovely charred look.
Next, season wisely. A generous amount of fajita seasoning gives these pitas their signature flavor, but don’t be too heavy-handed with it. Too much seasoning can overpower the other flavors in your dish.
Additionally, marinating your chicken breasts beforehand can add extra flavor to your dish. Mix 2 tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce with 1 tablespoon of lime juice and 1 tablespoon of olive oil for a simple yet delicious marinade.
Lastly, for perfectly toasted pita halves, warm them in the oven before assembling your fajita pitas. This step will ensure that the pitas are crispy on the outside but soft and fluffy on the inside.
Follow these simple tips and techniques for a tasty and healthy chicken fajita pita that is sure to be a hit with family and friends alike!
FAQ
Before we adjourn this cooking party, it’s important that I address any questions and queries you may have about this chicken fajita pita recipe. So, in this FAQ section, let’s clear up any doubts or concerns you may have so that you can whip up this delicious dish with confidence and ease. Let’s dive in!
What is in Jack in the Box chicken fajita pita?
One of the popular items from Jack in the Box’s food menu is the Chicken Fajita Pita, which has succulent char-grilled chicken along with shredded cheddar cheese, crispy lettuce, grilled onions, fresh tomatoes, all tucked inside a warm and tender pita bread that provides you with not less than 16 wholesome grams of whole grain. On the side, you get a fire-roasted salsa, and the whole boxful of flavors is available for only $4.99 in the local outlets.
Are fajita pitas healthy?
The grilled chicken fajita pita is a smart choice for those who crave a healthier, yet satisfying option. It has a modest 290 calorie-count and only 7 grams of fat, while packing 27 grams of protein. This makes it an excellent option when compared to other menu items that may contain higher levels of calories and fat.
Is Jack in the Box chicken fajita pita healthy?
If you’re looking for a tasty and nutritious meal on the go, the Chicken Fajita Pita from Jack in the Box is an excellent choice. It features succulent grilled chicken, cheddar cheese, and lettuce, alongside fire-roasted salsa, making it a healthy and satisfying option for a fast meal. Let me walk you through the steps to make a delicious and flavorful Chicken Fajita Pita right in your kitchen.
Do you cut chicken fajita meat before cooking?
To speed up cooking and prevent dryness in your fajitas, it’s best to slice the peppers, onions, and chicken into thin strips. Slicing the chicken against its grain will also enhance its tenderness.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this Chicken Fajita Pita Recipe is a culinary masterpiece that will surely tantalize your taste buds. These pitas are not only delicious, but also easy to make and perfect for lunch or dinner. The combination of juicy chicken, crunchy peppers and onions, and the savory fajita seasoning makes for a winning flavor profile that will have you and your family coming back for more. Whether you’re looking for a quick and healthy meal or just have a craving for some mouth-watering Mexican-style food, this recipe has got you covered.
So why not spice up your meal routine with these scrumptious Chicken Fajita Pitas? Try out different variations, such as adding cheese and lettuce or serving them with roasted salsa on the side. You can also customize your pitas according to your dietary needs by substituting chicken with beef, steak, or even greek chicken.
Remember to store any leftovers properly and follow my tips to ensure the best taste and texture when reheating. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, these Chicken Fajita Pitas are bound to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen!
So head on over to your local grocery store, grab the necessary ingredients, and give this recipe a try! Trust me, it’ll be worth it. And don’t forget to share it with your friends and family — they’ll thank you for it!
Chicken Fajita Pita Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup Italian salad dressing (fat free)
- 1/3 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 3 chicken breast halves, skinned and boned
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 (7 inch) pita bread rounds, halved (or use flour tortillas)
- 1/4 cup ranch salad dressing (or use low-fat yogurt)
- picante sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Italian salad dressing and soy sauce in a medium bowl and add chicken. Cover and chill at least 8 hours. Remove chicken from marinade and reserve.
- Grill chicken over medium heat 10 minutes on each side or until well cooked and light browned. Cut into strips and keep it warm.
- Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a nonstick skillet and place over medium-high heat until hot and add peppers and onion slices. Cook until vegetables are crisp-tender and then add grilled chicken strips.
- Fill pita halves with chicken and vegetables and serve with Ranch salad dressing or yogurt and picante sauce, if you like.