Fajitas with Beef and Chicken – A Flavorful One-Pan Delight
Fajitas are a beloved dish that effortlessly combines the bold flavors of grilled meat, sautéed vegetables, and zesty garnishes wrapped in a soft tortilla. This recipe delivers a vibrant and satisfying meal, perfect for a casual dinner with friends or family. By using a mix of both beef and chicken, you get the best of both worlds, while the colorful peppers and onions add freshness and crunch. Serve with your favorite toppings like guacamole, cheese, and salsa, and you’ve got a complete meal that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients (Serves 8)
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Beef sirloin (Controfiletto di manzo) | 400g |
| Chicken breast (Petto di pollo) | 400g |
| Red bell peppers (Peperoni rossi) | 350g |
| Yellow bell peppers (Peperoni gialli) | 350g |
| White onions (Cipolle bianche) | 250g |
| Lime | 1 |
| Worcestershire sauce | 20g |
| Fresh coriander (Coriandolo) | 10g |
| Ground cumin (Cumino in polvere) | 1 pinch |
| Extra virgin olive oil (Olio extravergine d’oliva) | as needed |
| Salt (Sale fino) | to taste |
| Black pepper (Pepe nero) | to taste |
| Flour tortillas (Tortillas di farina) | 8 |
| Edam cheese (Edamer) | as needed |
| Canned black beans (Fagioli neri precotti) | as needed |
| Mexican tomato salsa (Salsa di pomodori messicana) | as needed |
| Guacamole | as needed |
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Meats
Start by preparing the meats. Slice the beef sirloin into thin strips and then cut those into smaller, bite-sized strips. Do the same with the chicken breast, ensuring each piece is evenly sized for quick cooking.
Transfer the beef and chicken strips to a large bowl or shallow dish. Add finely chopped fresh coriander, a pinch of ground cumin, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Squeeze the juice of one lime over the mixture, then pour in the Worcestershire sauce. Massage the marinade into the meat with your hands, making sure all pieces are well-coated. Once mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and allow the meat to marinate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
While the meat is marinating, prepare the vegetables. Peel and slice the white onion into thin rounds. For the peppers, slice both the red and yellow bell peppers into strips, removing the seeds and white membranes. This colorful combination of vegetables will bring both texture and flavor to the fajitas.
Step 3: Cook the Meat and Vegetables
Once the marinating time has passed, remove the meat from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature. In the meantime, heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to the pan and let it warm up.
Add the onions and bell peppers to the pan, stirring occasionally, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften and the onions become translucent. Once the veggies are tender, increase the heat to high and add the marinated beef and chicken. Cook everything together, stirring frequently, for another 7-10 minutes until the meat is browned and cooked through.
Once cooked, drizzle a little Worcestershire sauce over the mixture to give it an additional burst of flavor. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Step 4: Warm the Tortillas
While the meat and vegetables are cooking, it’s time to warm the tortillas. Heat a large cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the flour tortillas on the skillet, one at a time, warming each for about 30 seconds per side. You want them to be soft and pliable but not crispy.
Step 5: Assemble the Fajitas
Once the filling is ready and the tortillas are warmed, it’s time to assemble your fajitas. Lay each tortilla flat on a plate and spoon a generous amount of the beef and chicken mixture into the center. Top with a few slices of Edam cheese (or any cheese you prefer), a spoonful of Mexican tomato salsa, and a dollop of guacamole for extra creaminess.
Carefully fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, bringing the edges towards the center, and roll it up, leaving the ends open for an authentic fajita wrap.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your homemade fajitas immediately while they’re warm, and enjoy them with extra sides of guacamole, salsa, or even a fresh salad. These fajitas are perfect for a fun family meal, and everyone can customize their wrap with their favorite toppings.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Dietary Fiber | 8g |
| Sugars | 6g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
| Cholesterol | 60mg |
These fajitas offer a balanced meal, packed with protein from the beef and chicken, fiber from the veggies, and healthy fats from the olive oil and guacamole. By using whole wheat tortillas and choosing lean meats, you can make this dish even healthier.
Tips for the Perfect Fajitas
- Marinating time: If you have extra time, marinate the meat for a few hours or overnight in the fridge to intensify the flavors.
- Vegetable variations: You can also add zucchini, mushrooms, or even corn for a unique twist on traditional fajitas.
- Salsa and toppings: For a spicier version, add a few slices of jalapeño or top with a tangy hot sauce.
- Customizing: Fajitas are all about personal preference, so feel free to get creative with your toppings. Sour cream, shredded lettuce, or even pico de gallo would make a great addition.
Whether for a cozy dinner at home or a gathering with friends, these fajitas will certainly be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the vibrant mix of flavors and textures wrapped in a warm tortilla—your taste buds will thank you!
This recipe provides the perfect balance of flavor, color, and nutrition, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. With fresh vegetables, tender meats, and zesty toppings, your fajitas will be the star of the show. Happy cooking!
