Name: Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 4 min
Total time: 14 min
Ingredients: 2 teaspoons Chili powder; 1 teaspoon Ground cumin; 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon Kosher salt; ½ teaspoon Garlic powder; ½ teaspoon Onion powder; ⅛ teaspoon Cayenne pepper (optional); 2 pounds Boneless skinless chicken breasts (or chicken tenders); ½ to ¾ cup Low-sodium chicken stock; 1 large Yellow or white onion (thinly sliced); 3 large Bell peppers (thinly sliced); 3 cloves Minced garlic; 2 medium Limes (zest and juice)

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There’s something undeniably satisfying about a plate of Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas. As I sit down to enjoy my meal, I can’t help but think back to those bustling weeknights when dinner was often a scramble. This recipe has become my go-to for busy evenings, allowing me to whip up a flavorful dinner without the fuss. The vibrant colors of the bell peppers and the tantalizing aroma of spices fill my kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table.

When I first discovered this method, I was amazed at how the Instant Pot efficiently cooks the chicken while infusing it with the smoky and spicy flavors of the seasoning. The recipe is not just about cooking; it’s about creating a moment. I often make these fajitas for family gatherings or when I want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The simplicity of tossing the ingredients in the pot and letting the magic happen is what makes this dish so appealing.

As each bite of the chicken and sautéed peppers bursts with flavor, I’m reminded of the warmth of home-cooked meals and the joy of sharing food with loved ones. Whether served in warm tortillas or over rice, Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas is a dish that brings everyone together, making it a staple in my home.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
14 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
4 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
35 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Electric Pressure Cooker (6 or 8 quart)

Why This Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas Is a Winner

It’s Quick and Easy

One of the best things about Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas is how quick and easy it is to prepare. In just a matter of minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table. The pressure cooking method significantly reduces cooking time while enhancing the flavors, which makes it ideal for those busy weeknights.

Full of Flavor

The combination of spices in this dish truly elevates the flavor profile. From the warmth of chili powder to the earthiness of cumin, each spice plays a role in creating a satisfying taste experience. You can also adjust the seasoning to suit your palate, whether you prefer it mild or with an extra kick.

Customizable

Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas is incredibly customizable; you can easily switch up the vegetables or proteins to suit your taste. Feel free to add more bell peppers, include zucchini, or even use shrimp instead of chicken. This flexibility means you’ll never get bored with the recipe!

Healthy Option

This dish is a health-conscious choice packed with lean protein and colorful vegetables. You can enjoy a hearty portion without the guilt, making it perfect for anyone looking to eat healthier or adhere to a balanced diet.

Perfect for Gatherings

Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual get-together, Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas are a hit. Serve them with tortillas, rice, or a fresh salad, and watch as everyone digs in. The communal style of serving makes it a great way to connect over a meal.

Easy Cleanup

Thanks to the all-in-one cooking method of the Instant Pot, cleanup is a breeze. You won’t have multiple pots and pans to wash afterward, leaving you with more time to relax and enjoy your meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas

Cooking with fresh, vibrant ingredients is key to creating a flavorful dish. For Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas, we focus on bold spices and colorful vegetables that not only taste great but also contribute to the overall appeal of the meal. Each ingredient plays a vital role in building layers of flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or chicken tenders
½ to ¾ cup low-sodium chicken stock
1 large yellow or white onion, thinly sliced
3 large bell peppers, thinly sliced
3 cloves minced garlic
2 medium limes, zest and juice

Putting Together Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas

Bringing together the flavors for Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas is exciting! You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create this fabulous dish in your Instant Pot. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a meal that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Start by preparing the fajita seasoning. In a small bowl, combine 2 teaspoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, and ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper. Mix well to blend all the spices together.
Next, take 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts and trim any excess fat. Slice the chicken into ½-inch thick strips, ensuring they are long and thin for even cooking. Once sliced, sprinkle half of the fajita seasoning mixture over the chicken and toss to coat evenly with the spices.
Now, add ½ cup of chicken stock to the inner pot of your Instant Pot. If you’re using a larger model, you can increase this to ¾ cup. The liquid will help create the pressure needed for cooking.
Carefully add the seasoned chicken to the inner pot. Then, layer on top the slices of 1 large yellow or white onion, followed by the 3 large bell peppers that you’ve sliced. Finally, sprinkle the remaining fajita seasoning over the top of the onion and peppers. This layering helps to distribute the flavors evenly.
Seal the Instant Pot, ensuring that the vent knob is set to sealed. Select the pressure cook or manual button and set the cooking time to 4 minutes on high pressure. This quick cook time allows the chicken to remain juicy while absorbing all the flavors from the spices.
When the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for about 10 minutes. This gentle release will help keep the chicken tender and flavorful, so resist the urge to quick release.
Once the pressure has released, carefully open the lid and use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked chicken, onions, and peppers into a serving bowl. The ingredients will be beautifully cooked and fragrant from the spices.
Add the zest and juice of 2 medium limes to the bowl. Toss everything together gently to coat the chicken and vegetables with the lime’s bright flavor. This addition adds a refreshing finish to the dish.
Serve your delicious fajita mixture as desired on warm tortillas, over rice, or with your favorite toppings such as sour cream or avocado. Enjoy this easy and flavorful meal with family and friends!

Things Worth Knowing

Pressure Cooking Tip: Always ensure that the vent is sealed properly to create the necessary pressure for cooking; this will help the chicken stay moist.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to use any combination of bell peppers you like, such as red, yellow, and green, for a colorful presentation.
Serving Options: These fajitas can be served not only in tortillas but also over rice or in salads for a delicious meal.
Storage Advice: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time Accuracy: Ensure that the chicken is thinly sliced to guarantee even cooking during the pressure cooking process.

Tips and Tricks about Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas

When it comes to making Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas, I’ve picked up some helpful tips along the way that can enhance your cooking experience. These tips will help you achieve the best results while saving time and effort.

Storage: Store leftover cooled fajita mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help maintain the flavors and freshness for your next meal.
Freezing: You can freeze the cooked fajita mixture in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Pairing: Serve these fajitas with a side of refried beans or Mexican rice for a complete meal that will satisfy all appetites.
Tortilla Type: Use flour or corn tortillas based on your preference, and warm them up before serving to enhance their flavor and texture.
Garnish Options: Consider adding toppings such as fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a squeeze of lime for added flavor and freshness.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas, there are numerous delightful ways to present this dish. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more enjoyable:

Wrap Them Up: Serve the fajitas wrapped in warm tortillas for a handheld meal that’s perfect for casual dining.
Over Rice: For those who prefer a heartier meal, serve the fajita mixture over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice.
With Sides: Accompany the fajitas with sides like guacamole, salsa, or refried beans for a complete Mexican-inspired feast.
Lunch Boxes: These fajitas make for excellent leftovers, perfect for packing in lunch boxes for work or school.
Family Style: Serve the fajita filling in a large bowl with tortillas on the side, allowing everyone to create their own wraps at the table.
Fresh Salads: Pair with a light salad for a refreshing contrast to the warm and spicy flavors of the fajitas.

FAQ

Yes, you can use frozen chicken for Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas. Just keep in mind that you will need to increase the cooking time. Typically, you should pressure cook for around 10 minutes instead of 4. Remember to allow for natural pressure release to ensure the chicken cooks thoroughly and remains juicy.

There are many delicious options to serve with Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas. You can serve them with warm tortillas, Mexican rice, or a fresh salad. Additionally, toppings like avocado slices, pico de gallo, or sour cream can enhance the flavors and provide a delightful texture contrast.

If you want to add more heat to your Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas, consider increasing the amount of cayenne pepper in the seasoning or adding sliced jalapeños to the mix. You can also serve with a spicy salsa or hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy an extra kick!

Absolutely! Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas are excellent for meal prepping. You can prepare a batch and store it in portioned containers in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it easy to grab a healthy meal when you’re short on time. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stove.

Conclusion

The beauty of Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas lies in their simplicity and versatility. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a meal that’s bursting with flavor. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; you’ll not only enjoy a delicious dinner but also create wonderful memories around the table with family and friends.

Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas

The ultimate comfort food that’s quick and full of flavor! These Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas are perfect for a busy weeknight, delivering tender chicken and vibrant vegetables in under 30 minutes. Make them tonight and satisfy your cravings!

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 4

Total Time 14

Course Dinner

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 4 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

Electric Pressure Cooker (6 or 8 quart)

Ingredients

2 teaspoons Chili powder
1 teaspoon Ground cumin
1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
1 teaspoon Kosher salt
½ teaspoon Garlic powder
½ teaspoon Onion powder
⅛ teaspoon Cayenne pepper optional
2 pounds Boneless skinless chicken breasts or chicken tenders
½ to ¾ cup Low-sodium chicken stock
1 large Yellow or white onion thinly sliced
3 large Bell peppers thinly sliced
3 cloves Minced garlic
2 medium Limes zest and juice

Instructions

Prepare the fajita seasoning by combining 2 teaspoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, and ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper in a small bowl.
Trim any fat from 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts and then slice into ½-inch thick strips, lengthwise (long, thin strips). Sprinkle ½ the fajita seasoning mixture over the chicken and toss to coat evenly with the spice mixture.
Add the chicken stock to the inner pot, using ½ cup for a 3 or 6-quart Instant Pot or ¾ cup for an 8-quart model.
Add the seasoned chicken to the inner pot. Top with the 1 large yellow or white onion (sliced), 3 large bell peppers (sliced), and 3 cloves minced garlic. Sprinkle the remaining fajita seasoning over the pepper and onions.
Seal the instant pot, being sure the vent knob is pointed to sealed or the lid is locked. Using the pressure cook or manual button, set the cooking time to 4 minutes on High Pressure.
Once cooking time is finished, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes.
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the chicken, onions, and peppers from the inner pot to a serving bowl. Add the zest and juice of 2 medium limes and toss to coat.
Serve the fajita mixture as desired on warmed tortillas or over rice with your favorite toppings.

Notes

Tip 1: For this recipe, you will only need to use ½ cup for a 3 or 6-quart Instant Pot or ¾ cup for an 8-quart model.
Tip 2: Use store-bought or homemade fajita seasoning, which is the blend of spices provided in the recipe card.
Tip 3: I recommend using either boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips, or chicken tenders.
Tip 4: Use any combination of bell peppers you like, such as red, yellow, and/or green.
Tip 5: Store leftover cooled fajita mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.