Description

Craving a vibrant, Tex-Mex feast that’s bursting with flavor and requires minimal effort? Slow Cooker Chicken Fajitas are your answer! This zesty recipe transforms tender chicken breasts into juicy, spiced perfection, paired with colorful bell peppers and onions, all cooked effortlessly in a slow cooker

Ingredients

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (1.5 lbs):
- Why it’s important: Lean, tender protein that shreds easily and absorbs the spices.
- Substitutions: Chicken thighs for juicier meat, or tofu/portobello mushrooms for vegetarian (adjust cooking time to 4–5 hours on low for tofu).
Bell Pepper (1, sliced, red, yellow, or green):
- Why it’s important: Adds sweet, colorful crunch and balances the dish’s flavors.
- Substitutions: Any color bell pepper, poblano peppers for smokiness, or zucchini for variety.
Onion (1, sliced):
- Why it’s important: Brings sweet, savory depth that complements the spices.
- Substitutions: Red, yellow, or white onion, shallots, or 1 tsp onion powder.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced):
- Why it’s important: Infuses the dish with warm, aromatic flavor.
- Substitutions: ¾ tsp garlic powder or 1.5 tsp garlic paste.
Chili Powder (1 tbsp):
- Why it’s important: Provides smoky, mildly spicy flavor central to fajitas.
- Substitutions: Ancho chili powder, chipotle powder for heat, or a taco seasoning blend.
Cumin (1 tsp):
- Why it’s important: Adds earthy, warm depth typical of Tex-Mex cuisine.
- Substitutions: Ground coriander or extra chili powder.
Paprika (1 tsp):
- Why it’s important: Brings mild sweetness and vibrant color.
- Substitutions: Smoked paprika for smokiness or cayenne for extra heat.
Salt and Pepper (to taste):
- Why it’s important: Enhances the flavors of the chicken and vegetables.
Lime Juice (Juice of 1 lime):
- Why it’s important: Adds bright, tangy freshness to balance the spices.
- Substitutions: Lemon juice, 2 tbsp bottled lime juice, or a splash of vinegar.
Tortillas (for serving):
- Why it’s important: The classic vessel for fajitas, perfect for wrapping the filling.
- Substitutions: Corn tortillas (gluten-free), flour tortillas, or lettuce wraps for low-carb.
Optional Toppings (avocado, salsa, sour cream, cilantro):
- Why it’s important: Adds creaminess, freshness, or heat for a customized experience.
- Substitutions: Guacamole, pico de gallo, Greek yogurt, or pickled jalapeños.

Tip: Use fresh, firm bell peppers for the best texture, and choose a chili powder with good flavor, as it’s a key seasoning.

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Instructions

Step 1: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

In the slow cooker, combine 1 sliced bell pepper, 1 sliced onion, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp paprika, a pinch of salt and pepper, and the juice of 1 lime.
Add 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, nestling them into the vegetable and spice mixture.
Stir gently to coat the chicken and veggies evenly with the seasonings.
Tip: Lightly grease the slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through (165°F/74°C internally) and the vegetables are tender.
Check doneness at the lower end of the time to avoid overcooking, as slow cookers vary.
Tip: Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain consistent heat.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker using tongs and transfer to a cutting board or bowl.
Shred the chicken with two forks.
Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to mix with the vegetables and juices for maximum flavor.
Tip: If the mixture is too wet, cook uncovered on high for 10–15 minutes to reduce liquid.

Step 4: Serve

Warm tortillas in the microwave (wrapped in a damp towel for 20–30 seconds) or on a skillet for a slightly charred flavor.
Spoon the chicken and vegetable mixture into the center of each tortilla.
Add optional toppings like avocado slices, salsa, sour cream, or chopped cilantro.
Serve hot, ideally with a side of Mexican rice or a simple salad.
Tip: Fold or roll tortillas tightly to keep the filling secure, and serve with extra lime wedges for a fresh squeeze.