Pinch of Wellness

  • Breakfast
  • Main Entrees
  • Side Dishes
  • Snacks
  • Desserts
  • Wellness
menu icon
go to homepage
search icon
Homepage link
  • Recipe Index
  • Summer
  • About
  • Contact
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
  • ×
    Home » Recipes » Fall

    Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas

    Published: Mar 17, 2020 · Modified: Feb 28, 2023 by Ashlee Welter · This post may contain affiliate links · This blog generates income via ads · 8 Comments

    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

    Instant pot chicken fajitas are spicy, flavorful and easy to make! Tender chicken breast is combined with peppers and onions plus a perfect amount of Mexican seasoning for an easy and delicious meal. This meal takes less than 30 minutes to make!

    chicken fajitas in the instant pot

    These instant pot chicken fajitas are the perfect easy dinner recipe! It's one of those meals that is perfect for when you want to eat a home cooked meal but don't feel like cooking. All you have to do is put the ingredients in the instant pot, push start and let it cook!

    The fajitas pair perfectly with a side of this spinach caprese salad or these delicious sweet potato fries! I also like to make a big batch of homemade salsa or mango corn salsa to serve on top of the fajitas.

    Jump to:
    • What Makes These The Best Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas? 
    • Ingredients Needed
    • Step by Step Instructions
    • Serving Suggestions
    • Best Toppings for Instant Pot Fajitas
    • Expert Tips
    • Frequently Asked Questions
    • Leftovers
    • Are These Fajitas Healthy?
    • More Easy Dinner Recipes
    • Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas

    What Makes These The Best Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas? 

    These IP (Instant Pot) Chicken Fajitas are a bit different than most instant pot fajita recipes. One of the biggest differences is that the chicken is seasoned and cooked in the instant pot first, and then the peppers and onions are added to the instant pot for the last two minutes.

    Adding the peppers and onions after the chicken cooks prevents them from becoming soggy and overly mushy, while still allowing the juices of the onions to saturate the chicken and create a delicious flavor profile . If you think about your typical fajitas served at Mexican Restaurant, most times the peppers and onions are tender, but still have a bit of a crunch to them. This recipe mimics that style of cooking. 

    Additionally, these are the best instant pot chicken fajitas due to the rich and bold flavor profile that is created with such minimal seasoning. The only seasoning needed is a packet of taco seasoning. This seasoning covers the raw chicken, and when cooked, creates the perfect flavor. 

    Ingredients Needed

    ingredients for instant pot fajitas
    • Chicken breast: boneless, skinless chicken breasts are needed, as you will be slicing these into strips that are about ¾ inch wide by 2 inch long. This can be subbed with chicken tenders or chicken thighs.
    • Taco seasoning: use the standard taco seasoning from grocery stores. Choose a reduced sodium option if watching salt intake. Here's a homemade taco seasoning recipe if preferred!
    • Olive oil: used to mix with the taco seasoning. Choose a light version as it has a mild flavor. Sub canola oil if desired. 
    • Peppers: red, yellow or orange peppers work best because they have a sweeter flavor. Green peppers tend to be more bitter, but they will also work. Use either 3-4 bell peppers or a small bag of mini peppers! 
    • Onion: white onion is recommended as this adds the best flavor. If prefered to use a purple onion, note this will result in a slightly sweeter product.

    Step by Step Instructions

    Slice peppers into small strips (slices should be about ¼ inch wide by 1.5-inch long). Repeat with the onion. Set aside. 

    bell pepper strips

    Slice chicken into strips that are about ¾ inch wide by 2 in long. In a small bowl, combine olive oil and taco seasoning. Mix with a fork until combined. 

    Expert Tip: It is easier to slice chicken that is just slightly frozen. Stick it in the freezer for about 30 minutes before cutting. Be sure to cut against the grain or muscle fibers.

    how to cut chicken for fajitas

    Place the metal insert into the bottom of the instant pot (this is an important step to keep the fajitas from sticking to the bottom). Layer the sliced chicken over the top of the metal insert (layer in the opposite direction of the insert so they don’t fall through). 

    Spread the oil and taco seasoning mixture evenly over chicken. Move chicken around so that all pieces are evenly coated. Add the water. 

    Close valve on instant pot and set to cook for 10 minutes. Once done cooking, do a quick release and add peppers/onions. Do this very quickly so IP remains hot and chicken doesn’t overcook. 

    Set the IP to cook for another 3 minutes once peppers and onions are added. Once the timer goes off, do a quick release. 

    Remove from IP immediately. Use a slotted spoon to scoop out chicken and peppers if there is a lot of liquid in the bottom. Serve with corn tortillas or white tortillas .

    Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas

    Serving Suggestions

    Instant pot fajitas can be eaten plain, or served in a variety of different ways:  

    • Serve them wrapped in warm corn or flour tortillas. This is the most classic way to serve fajitas.
    • Create a rice bowl. Serve the fajitas on top of the rice and drizzle with avocado crema.
    • Serve as a salad. The fajitas are the perfect topping for a salad. You can use mixed greens or romaine lettuce as a base and then top with the fajitas and your favorite salad toppings.
    • Nachos: For a fun twist, you can use the fajitas as a topping for nachos. Just layer tortilla chips with cheese, black beans, jalapenos, and the fajita mixture, then heat until the cheese is melted.

    Best Toppings for Instant Pot Fajitas

    • Avocado Slices or Avocado Crema
    • Fresh Salsa, Mango Corn Salsa or Peach Habanero Salsa
    • Sour Cream
    • Pico de Galo
    • Jalapeños
    • Cilantro
    healthy Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas on corn tortillas

    Expert Tips

    • Mix the taco seasoning with the olive oil. If you don’t, the taco seasoning will clump together on the chicken. 
    • Use the metal rack or spray the bottom of the instant pot to avoid extreme sticking
    • Don’t cook the peppers, onions and chicken all at once. Wait to add the peppers and onions for best quality! 
    • Make sure you put the plastic seal on the IP prior to cooking

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Should I use Fresh or Frozen Chicken?

    Chicken can be cooked from the thawed or frozen state. The directions for this recipe are based on cooking chicken that has been entirely defrosted. If using frozen chicken, the cooking time of the instant pot will increase by a few minutes.    

    How should chicken be cut for fajitas?

    Slice the chicken into strips that are about ¾ inch wide by 2 inches long. It’s ok if not all strips are perfect or the same size! 

    Can I use frozen vegetables?

    These chicken fajitas can easily be made with frozen sliced peppers and onions. Be sure to heat the frozen vegetables in the microwave and drain excess water first. Once the chicken is finished cooking, add the veggies to the chicken mixture and let sit for 10 minutes to absorb all flavors.

    Should I cut the chicken before cooking it?

    Yes! This helps the flavors disperse more intensely throughout the chicken!

    easy instant Pot Chicken Fajitas

    Leftovers

    Store the leftover fajitas in an air tight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

    To freeze fajitas after cooking: Place fajitas in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Defrost in the refrigerator for a day before serving. Consider placing it in smaller sized bags if you are only wanting to defrost enough product for 1-2 days.

    Are These Fajitas Healthy?

    • These fajitas are a great source of protein. One serving (which is about ⅙th of the total finished recipe) contains 17 grams of protein. The protein source is a lean protein, which doesn’t add a lot of extra fat. 
    • Chicken fajitas made in the instant pot are healthier than if made by frying over a stove with oil.
    • Instant Pot fajitas are also a good source of veggies, which come from the peppers and onions. 
    • The taco seasoning does add extra sodium - use a low sodium and salt free version of taco seasoning if concerned about salt intake
    • Overall, this is a healthy meal option! To make this a balanced meal, consider adding some brown rice to the side or serving with a whole wheat tortilla. You may also serve with fresh fruit on the side.

    More Easy Dinner Recipes

    • chicken taco bake
      Chicken Taco Bake
    • Mexican Meatballs
      Mexican Meatballs
    • spicy adobo chicken
      Spicy Adobo Chicken
    • fish tacos with mango salsa
      Fish Tacos with Mango Salsa
    Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas on corn tortillas

    Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas

    Ashlee Welter
    Instant Pot chicken fajitas can be made in less than 30 minutes! This easy, weeknight meal is perfect for the whole family.
    5 from 1 vote
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 10 minutes mins
    Cook Time 20 minutes mins
    Total Time 30 minutes mins
    Course dinner, Main Course
    Cuisine Mexican
    Servings 6 servings
    Calories 316 kcal

    Ingredients
      

    • 5 medium raw chicken breasts (about 4 pounds raw)
    • 3 tablespoon olive oil
    • ¼ cup water
    • 1 package taco seasoning
    • 4 medium bell peppers any color
    • 1 medium white onion

    Instructions
     

    • Slice peppers and onions into thin strips (about ¼ inch wide by 1 inch long). Set aside.
    • Slice chicken breast into thin strips (about ¾ inch wide by 2 inches long).
    • Place metal rack in bottom of instant pot. Layer chicken on top of metal rack.
    • In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, water and taco seasoning. Pour over the chicken breast.
    • Place lid on instant pot, set valve to sealing position and set as manual cook time to 7 minutes.
    • Once 7 minutes is up, do a quick release and open lid.
    • Add the sliced peppers and onions, close lid, set valve to sealing position and reset manual cook time to 3 minutes.
    • Once 3 minutes is complete, do a quick release and open lid.
    • Remove meat and veggies from Instant Pot using a slotted spoon. Serve on tortillas or over rice.

    Notes

    Tip: freeze the chicken for 30 minutes before cutting. It is easier to cut slightly frozen chicken. 

    Nutrition

    Calories: 316kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 41g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 0.02g | Cholesterol: 121mg | Sodium: 694mg | Potassium: 891mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 5g
    Tried this recipe?Mention @pinchofwellness or tag #pinchofwellness!

    More Fall

    • honey chipotle wings
      Honey Chipotle Wings
    • gluten free dairy free banana bread
      Gluten Free Dairy Free Banana Bread
    • healthy-white-chicken-chili
      Healthy White Chicken Chili (Crockpot or Stovetop)
    • The-Best-Baked-Oranges
      The Best Oven Baked Oranges

    Comments

    1. Adriana says

      September 17, 2022 at 7:14 pm

      5 stars
      I made these with steak and it was great!

      Reply
      • Ashlee Welter says

        September 18, 2022 at 10:32 am

        Sounds amazing!

        Reply
    5 from 1 vote

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    ashlee welter pinch of wellness

    Hi, I'm Ashlee! I'm a Registered Dietitian with over 12 years of experience in nutrition, cooking, and health! I am an expert in developing gluten free and healthy recipes!

    More about me!

    as featured in

    Top Healthy Recipes

    • salmon buddha bowls with teriyaki sauce
      Teriyaki Salmon Bowl
    • low-carb-philly-cheesesteak-skillet
      Healthy Philly Cheesesteak Skillet (Low Carb)
    • air-fryer-buffalo-cauliflower wings
      Air Fryer Cauliflower Bites
    • air-fryer-buffalo-chicken-tenders
      Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders
    • gluten-free-sweet-and-sour-chicken
      Healthy Gluten Free Sweet and Sour Chicken
    • Healthy Spaghetti Sauce
      Healthy Spaghetti Sauce
    • Skinny Spinach Artichoke Dip
      Healthy Spinach Artichoke Dip
    • BBQ Chicken Sweet Potatoes
      BBQ Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

    Spring Favorites

    • honey chipotle wings
      Honey Chipotle Wings
    • Chicken Burrito Skillet
      Chicken Burrito Skillet
    • Healthy Chicken Burritos
      Healthy Chicken Burritos
    • buffalo-chicken-rice-bowls-8
      Buffalo Chicken Rice Bowls

    Popular

    • immunity shot
      Homemade Immunity Shots
    • Chili flakes on a blue background
      Chili Flakes vs. Red Pepper Flakes
    • grilled chicken breasts on a wood cutting board
      Chicken vs. Tofu (A Nutritional Comparison
    • recipes with frozen cherries
      Recipes with Frozen Cherries

    Work With Me!

    As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

    Footer

    as featured in footer 360x200
    • About Me
    • Accessibility

    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms and Conditions
    • Disclosure
    • Contact
    • Work With Me

    As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

    Copyright © 2024 Pinch of Wellness LLC

    This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Cookie settingsACCEPT
    Privacy & Cookies Policy

    Privacy Overview

    This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
    Necessary
    Always Enabled
    Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
    Non-necessary
    Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
    SAVE & ACCEPT

    Rate This Recipe

    Your vote:




    A rating is required
    A name is required
    An email is required

    Recipe Ratings without Comment

    Something went wrong. Please try again.