Skillet Shrimp Fajitas are packed with flavor and made in just one pan! Juicy shrimp mix with bell peppers and onions, all seasoned perfectly to make your taste buds dance.
These fajitas are super fun to make! I love how quick they come together; just toss everything in the skillet, and you’re set for a tasty dinner. Don’t forget the tortillas—wrap it up and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use large shrimp for the best texture and flavor. If you’re looking for a substitute, chicken breast or tofu works great for a different protein option, though cooking times may vary.
Spices: The blend of chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder gives this dish a delightful flavor. You can try smoked paprika for an extra kick. If you’re sensitive to heat, reduce the chili powder amount.
Bell Peppers: I used red and green bell peppers for sweetness and crunch. You can mix it up with yellow or orange peppers for variety or even use zucchini for a lower-carb option.
Avocado: Slicing avocado adds creaminess. If you’re not a fan, you could try guacamole for flavor or even sour cream as a substitute.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are traditional, but corn tortillas are gluten-free and add a nice texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try whole wheat tortillas.
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky; they cook quickly, and it’s easy to overdo them. To get them just right, follow these simple steps:
- Ensure shrimp are thawed and patted dry before seasoning. This helps the spices stick better.
- Heat your skillet to medium-high before adding shrimp. A hot surface creates a nice sear.
- Cook for only 2-3 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and opaque.
- Remove shrimp from the skillet ASAP; overcooked shrimp turns rubbery—no one likes that!
How to Make Skillet Shrimp Fajitas?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Veggies:
- 1 bell pepper (red), sliced
- 1 bell pepper (green), sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
For Serving:
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Tortillas (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes of cooking time. In just about 25 minutes, you’ll have delicious shrimp fajitas ready to enjoy! Perfect for a quick and tasty meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Shrimp:
In a large bowl, mix the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to toss everything together until the shrimp are well coated. Let them sit and marinate for about 15 minutes while you prep the veggies.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the marinated shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Veggies:
In the same skillet, add the sliced red and green bell peppers along with the onion. Sauté them for about 4-5 minutes until they are tender and have nice char marks. The aroma will be amazing!
4. Combine and Heat Through:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the sautéed veggies. Toss everything together gently and cook for an additional minute to ensure everything is heated through. This will combine all the delicious flavors!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your shrimp fajitas hot, garnished with sliced avocado, lime wedges, and fresh cilantro. Place the shrimp and veggies in tortillas and wrap them up for a delicious meal. Enjoy your tasty fajitas!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just be sure to thaw them completely before marinating. You can thaw shrimp in the fridge overnight or place them in a sealed bag and submerge them in cold water for quick thawing. Pat them dry before seasoning to avoid excess moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Bell Peppers?
If you don’t have bell peppers, feel free to use other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or even corn. Just cut them into similar sized pieces, and remember that cooking times may vary based on what you choose, so keep an eye on them!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover shrimp fajitas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of lime juice for brightness. Avoid microwaving to maintain the shrimp’s texture.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the shrimp with tofu or tempeh and follow the same marinating and cooking steps. Using a variety of vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and eggplant would also add delicious flavors and textures to your fajitas!
