Name: Slow Cooker Chicken Fajitas Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-491719H55M15S
Total time: PT-491719H55M15S
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips; 3 large bell peppers, sliced; 1 large onion or 2 small onions, sliced; 15 ounces diced tomatoes or salsa; 1/3 cup fajita seasoning blend (see below); Salt & pepper to season the chicken; 3/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth (for Instant Pot only); 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 tablespoon cumin; 1 1/2 teaspoons salt (or more to taste); 1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

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Introduction

Slow Cooker Chicken Fajitas are a hassle-free, flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken strips simmer with vibrant bell peppers, onions, and a blend of spices for an easy Tex-Mex favorite. Serve with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings for a crowd-pleasing dinner.

A white oval plate holds a vibrant chicken fajita dish with three main layers: the bottom layer has cooked green, red, and yellow bell pepper strips mixed with translucent cooked onion slices; the middle layer features well-seasoned brown chicken strips scattered throughout; the top layer includes fresh green cilantro leaves sprinkled on the chicken and veggies, with two lime wedges placed at the top edge and three avocado slices positioned at the bottom right edge of the plate; a bunch of cilantro rests at the bottom left edge. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with part of a beige cloth visible at the top left corner and a white bowl holding tortillas at the top right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
3 large bell peppers, sliced
1 large onion or 2 small onions, sliced
15 ounces diced tomatoes or salsa
1/3 cup fajita seasonings (see below for homemade blend)
Salt & pepper to season the chicken
3/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth (for Instant Pot only)
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon cumin
1 1/2 teaspoons salt (or more)
1 1/2 teaspoons oregano
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Add the chicken, sliced bell peppers, onions, diced tomatoes or salsa, and the fajita seasoning blend to the slow cooker. Stir everything together to combine well.
Step 2: Cook on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours or on LOW for 4 to 6 hours until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Step 3 (Instant Pot): Turn the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Once hot, add a little oil, the sliced onions, and bell peppers. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes until softened.
Step 4 (Instant Pot): Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Add the chicken, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, oregano, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper to the pot. Stir to mix everything together.
Step 5 (Instant Pot): Close the lid, seal the valve, and set to high pressure for 8 minutes. When the cooking time finishes, quick release the pressure carefully before opening the lid.

Tips & Variations

Use a homemade fajita seasoning blend by mixing chili powder, cumin, salt, oregano, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper to control flavors and sodium.
Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Serve with warm flour or corn tortillas, along with toppings like sour cream, guacamole, shredded cheese, or fresh cilantro.
For a smoky flavor, try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the seasoning mix.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. You can also freeze cooked fajitas for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a black slow cooker filled with a mix of cooked chicken strips and sliced bell peppers in green, red, and orange colors, along with slices of white onions. The chicken pieces have a light brown color with a slightly glazed texture, mixed evenly with the vibrantly colored vegetables, all coated in a reddish seasoning or sauce that adds a glossy shine. The inside of the slow cooker has small bits of sauce around the sides. The slow cooker is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and tend to stay juicy. Adjust cooking time slightly if needed, especially in the slow cooker.

How do I make my fajitas less watery?

Drain excess liquid before serving or cook uncovered for the last 15 minutes to reduce moisture. Using thick salsa or diced tomatoes without too much juice can also help prevent sogginess.