There is nothing quite like the sound of a sizzling platter of fajitas making its way to your table at a local cantina. Now, you can bring that festive restaurant energy right into your own kitchen with this vibrant, smoke-infused recipe. Whether you prefer tender chicken or juicy skirt steak, the secret lies in a zesty lime and garlic marinade that ensures every single bite is bursting with bright, bold flavors.

Recipe Details

  • Yields: 4
  • Prep Time: 20 min
  • Cook Time: 15 min
  • Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup + 1/2 tsp Lime Juice, divided
  • 3 Tbsp Olive Oil, divided
  • 4 cloves Garlic, crushed
  • 3 tsp Soy Sauce, divided
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Liquid Smoke
  • 1/2 tsp Cayenne Pepper
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
  • 1 lb Chicken Breasts or Skirt Steak, bones/skin removed
  • 2 Tbsp Water
  • 1 large Spanish Onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 each Green, Red, and Yellow Bell Pepper, thinly sliced

Instructions

  1. In a container that can be sealed, whisk together 1/4 cup of the lime juice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, the crushed garlic, 2 teaspoons of the soy sauce, salt, liquid smoke, and both types of pepper. Place your choice of meat into the mixture, ensuring it is well-coated, then cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for a minimum of 2 hours or even overnight for the best flavor.
  2. In a separate small bowl, stir together the water, the remaining 1 teaspoon of soy sauce, the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of lime juice, and a small pinch of salt and pepper. Set this liquid aside for later.
  3. Prepare your grill over a medium-high flame. Cook the marinated meat for approximately 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until it is fully cooked through.
  4. Once the meat is finished, slice it into thin, even strips. Set the meat aside in a warm place to maintain its temperature.
  5. Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and the colorful bell peppers, sautéing them until they are beautifully browned. Remove the skillet from the heat and pour the reserved water and lime juice mixture over the hot vegetables.
  6. Combine the sliced meat with the sautéed onions and peppers, tossing everything together to incorporate the juices.

Tips for Success

To create a complete feast, serve these sizzling fajitas with a stack of warm tortillas. You can offer a variety of classic toppings so everyone can customize their own, such as fresh pico de gallo, shredded cheese, cool sour cream, and homemade guacamole.

Gather your family around the table and enjoy this vibrant, smoky meal that brings the best of the grill to your dinner plate.