In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, finding the time to prepare a delicious and satisfying meal can be a challenge. However, with the right recipe, you can enjoy a mouth - watering dinner in no time. One such recipe is the hands - off chicken fajita, a classic Mexican dish that can be on your table in just over 30 minutes. And all you need to add is a side of guacamole for that extra zing!

Let's start with the ingredients. For the chicken fajitas, you'll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts. These are not only lean but also cook quickly, making them perfect for a weeknight meal. You'll also need a variety of colorful bell peppers - red, green, and yellow. The different colors not only add visual appeal but also bring a range of flavors and nutrients to the dish. Onions are another essential ingredient, adding a sweet and savory note.

To season the chicken and vegetables, you'll want to create a simple yet flavorful spice blend. Combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat. This spice blend is the heart of the fajita flavor, giving it that authentic Mexican kick.

Now, let's move on to the cooking process. First, cut the chicken breasts into thin strips. Place them in a large bowl and sprinkle the spice blend over them. Toss the chicken to ensure that each piece is evenly coated with the spices. Next, cut the bell peppers and onions into thin slices.

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Arrange the seasoned chicken strips on the baking sheet, leaving some space between each piece. Then, scatter the bell pepper and onion slices around the chicken. Drizzle a little olive oil over the chicken and vegetables to help them cook evenly and get a nice, crispy exterior.

Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and let it cook for about 20 - 25 minutes. You'll know the chicken is done when it's no longer pink in the center and the vegetables are tender and slightly charred around the edges. While the chicken and vegetables are cooking, you can start preparing the guacamole.

Making guacamole is incredibly easy. All you need are ripe avocados, lime juice, diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Cut the avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh into a bowl. Mash the avocados with a fork until they reach your desired consistency - some people like it chunky, while others prefer it smooth. Add the lime juice, which not only adds flavor but also helps prevent the avocados from turning brown. Then, stir in the diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, and salt. Mix everything well and set it aside.

Once the chicken and vegetables are cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Warm up some tortillas in the microwave or on a dry skillet for a few seconds. To assemble the fajitas, place a few strips of chicken and some bell pepper and onion slices on each tortilla. Top it off with a generous spoonful of guacamole. Fold the tortilla over the filling, and you have a delicious chicken fajita ready to eat.

This chicken fajita recipe is not only quick and easy but also highly customizable. If you're not a fan of chicken, you can use beef or shrimp instead. You can also adjust the spice level according to your taste preferences. Add more cayenne pepper if you like it spicy, or leave it out if you prefer a milder flavor.

So, the next time you're short on time but still want to enjoy a delicious home - cooked meal, give this hands - off chicken fajita recipe a try. With its bold flavors and quick cooking time, it's sure to become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. And don't forget the guacamole - it's the perfect finishing touch to this Mexican feast!