If you have ever wished to replicate the vibrant, smoky, and perfectly seasoned flavor of Chipotle’s fajita veggies right at home, then you are in for a treat. This Fajita Veggies Recipe (Chipotle Copycat) Recipe captures that very essence with a colorful medley of bell peppers and onions, all sautéed to tender-crisp perfection with a bold blend of spices. It’s quick, unbelievably easy, and will instantly elevate any taco night or burrito bowl you’re craving. Trust me, once you make this, you’ll wonder why you ever bought pre-packaged fajita veggies!
Ingredients You’ll Need
All you need for this Fajita Veggies Recipe (Chipotle Copycat) Recipe are a few simple, fresh ingredients. Each component plays a special role: the bell peppers add a vibrant color and sweet crunch, the onion brings depth and a slight bite, and the spices deliver that unmistakable smoky, earthy profile that makes this dish stand out.
- 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, and green): Choose fresh, firm peppers to ensure a great mix of color and sweetness.
- 1 red onion: Adds a mild pungency and caramelizes beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil: A high smoke point oil that helps the veggies char without burning.
- 2 garlic cloves (finely minced): Provides aromatic richness to take the flavors over the top.
- ½ teaspoon chili powder: The key to a warm, smoky depth in the seasoning blend.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Adds earthiness and a hint of sweetness.
- ½ teaspoon cumin: Brings a nutty, slightly peppery warmth.
- ¼ teaspoon oregano: A subtle herbal note for balance.
- 1 teaspoon salt (to taste): Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon pepper (to taste): Provides a gentle heat and sharpness.
How to Make Fajita Veggies Recipe (Chipotle Copycat) Recipe
Step 1: Cut the Veggies
Start by thinly slicing your red, yellow, and green bell peppers along with the red onion. The goal is to create strips that cook evenly and look beautiful when served. Keep the slices uniform for consistent texture throughout the dish.
Step 2: Heat the Garlic and Oil
Warm up the avocado oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering hot. This ensures a quick sear that locks in flavor and produces a slight char on the veggies, which is essential for authenticity in this fajita experience.
Step 3: Sauté the Peppers and Onions with Spices
Now it’s time to add the thinly sliced peppers and onions straight into the hot oil. Sprinkle in the chili powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper right away for maximum flavor infusion. Let the veggies cook for about 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, but also allowing them to sit undisturbed for short bursts to get that delicious char without burning. Keeping an eye on them here is key!
Step 4: Add Garlic at the End
During the last minute of cooking, push the peppers and onions aside in the pan, creating a little open space. Add the finely minced garlic and cook it for approximately 30 seconds until fragrant. This method prevents the garlic from burning while delivering its rich aroma throughout the dish.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Give everything a good mix to marry the garlic with the rest of the veggies, then take the pan off the heat. Your fajita veggies are now ready to be enjoyed as the star of your meal or a vibrant sidekick. Let’s move on to some delicious ways you can serve them!
How to Serve Fajita Veggies Recipe (Chipotle Copycat) Recipe
Garnishes
Top these sizzling fajita veggies with fresh lime wedges for a burst of citrus, chopped cilantro for a fresh herbal note, or a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco if you want a creamy contrast. These little extras elevate the already fantastic flavors.
Side Dishes
Pair this Fajita Veggies Recipe (Chipotle Copycat) Recipe with Mexican rice, warm flour or corn tortillas, black beans, or even a tangy guacamole to round out your meal. The veggies’ smoky spices complement these sides perfectly for a well-balanced Mexican-inspired feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Use these fajita veggies to stuff burritos, as a topping for nachos, or even layered onto a toasted sandwich. The smoky, seasoned veggie mix adds excitement and a fresh punch to many dishes beyond tacos!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover fajita veggies in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them an excellent component for quick lunches or easy additions to meals during the week.
Freezing
While freezing fajita veggies is possible, keep in mind the texture may soften slightly when thawed. Place cooled veggies in a freezer-safe container or bag, pressing out any excess air, and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating
For the best taste and texture, reheat leftovers in a hot skillet over medium heat to revive the char and warmth. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the fresh, sautéed quality of the peppers and onions.
FAQs
Can I use other oils instead of avocado oil?
Absolutely! While avocado oil is preferred for its high smoke point and mild flavor, you can use other neutral oils like vegetable or canola oil. Just avoid olive oil as it has a lower smoke point and may burn quickly during high-heat cooking.
What if I don’t have a cast iron skillet?
No worries! Any heavy-bottomed pan or non-stick skillet will do the job. Just make sure it can get hot enough to sear the veggies properly. A cast iron pan, however, naturally holds heat well and adds a lovely char.
Can I make this recipe vegan and gluten-free?
This Fajita Veggies Recipe (Chipotle Copycat) Recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it perfect for almost any diet. Just make sure to pair it with compliant sides and toppings if you’re catering to specific dietary needs.
How spicy is this recipe?
The spice level is mild and smoky but not overly hot. You can always adjust the chili powder or add fresh jalapeños if you prefer more heat. It’s easy to tailor!
Can I add other vegetables to this fajita recipe?
Definitely! Mushrooms, zucchini, or sliced jalapeños work well. Just keep cooking times in mind so everything finishes evenly without becoming mushy.
Final Thoughts
Making the Fajita Veggies Recipe (Chipotle Copycat) Recipe at home is a joy and a game changer for homemade Mexican meals. It’s fresh, flavorful, and super adaptable to whatever you have on hand. I highly encourage you to try this recipe and bring some of that beloved Chipotle magic right into your own kitchen. Once you do, I bet it’ll become a regular on your dinner table too!
Print
Fajita Veggies Recipe (Chipotle Copycat) Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Chipotle copycat fajita veggies recipe features vibrant bell peppers and red onions sautéed to perfection with a blend of smoky spices and garlic. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a flavorful and versatile vegetable side or filling perfect for tacos, burrito bowls, or enjoying on its own.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, and green)
- 1 red onion
Seasonings & Oil
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 2 garlic cloves (finely minced)
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ¼ teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Cut the Veggies: Thinly slice the bell peppers and red onion into strips, preparing them for sautéing.
- Heat the Garlic: Heat avocado oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it’s sizzling hot, which should take a few minutes.
- Cook the Peppers and Onions: Add the sliced peppers and onion to the skillet along with chili powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally. For added char, let the veggies sit undisturbed for a minute or two before stirring, but watch closely to avoid burning.
- Sauté the Garlic: During the last minute of cooking, move the veggies aside to an open area of the pan and add the finely minced garlic. Cook the garlic for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
- Serve the Fajita Veggies: Mix the garlic and veggies together, remove the skillet from heat, and serve the flavorful fajita veggies on tacos, burrito bowls, or enjoy them as a standalone dish.
Notes
- Use a cast iron skillet for best heat retention and flavor development.
- Adjust salt and spices to suit your taste preferences.
- For more charred veggies, do not stir too frequently but monitor to prevent burning.
- These fajita veggies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for added brightness.
