Sauteed Chicken Fajitas

1. Prep

Begin by preparing all your ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process. Have your chicken cut into even bite-size pieces to promote uniform cooking. Slice your garlic, red onion, poblano pepper, and jalapeño, keeping the slices consistent for even cooking and presentation. Measure out your taco seasoning so it's ready to go when you need it. Chop the cilantro and mince the white onion for the garnish, and set aside with lime wedges to be used at the end of the recipe.

2. Sear Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add half of the avocado oil. Once hot, add the chicken pieces with a pinch of salt in a single layer for a good sear. Cook until the chicken is golden and cooked through, which should take about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally. The golden color not only adds flavor but indicates a perfect sear. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Cook Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining avocado oil, followed by the sliced garlic, red onion, poblano, and jalapeño. Sweat the aromatics over medium heat with a pinch of salt until they are softened and the onions are translucent, which provides a sweet, mellow flavor base for your fajitas. This should take about 5-7 minutes. The water released from the vegetables will naturally deglaze your pan. Make sure to scrape up any browned bits from the seared chicken. These browned bits are packed with flavor that will enhance your fajitas.

4. Toast Spices

Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the vegetables and stir to coat evenly. Cook for another minute to allow the spices to toast, which will release their flavors. If the pan gets too dry and the vegetables start to stick, add a splash of water to deglaze.

5. Toast Tortillas

While everything is cooking, heat a cast iron pan over medium heat and toast the tortillas until aromatic and pliable. Keep the tortillas wrapped in a kitchen towel to stay warm and prevent them from drying out.

6. Finishing Ingredients

Return the seared chicken to the skillet with the vegetables and stir to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through. The chicken will absorb some of the flavors from the vegetables and seasoning, making every bite delicious. Taste for seasoning, adjusting with salt and lime juice as needed. Serve with the warm tortillas, lime wedges, minced onion and chopped cilantro.