These skillet shrimp fajitas are quick, colorful, and packed with flavor! Fresh shrimp, sizzling peppers, and onions come together for a tasty dinner everyone will love.
Trust me, the kitchen will smell amazing while you’re cooking these! I love serving them with warm tortillas and a sprinkle of lime—so easy and so fun to eat!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp are perfect for this dish. If you’re not a fan of shrimp, you can substitute them with chicken, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Olive Oil: I like to use extra virgin olive oil for its flavor. You can swap it with avocado oil or even vegetable oil if olive oil isn’t your thing.
Spices: The chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika add depth to the shrimp. If you prefer less spice, reduce the chili powder. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works, but you’ll miss that lovely smoky flavor.
Bell Pepper & Onion: Any color of bell pepper works well. You can also throw in other veggies like zucchini or mushrooms to bulk up your fajitas.
Avocado: Fresh avocado adds creaminess. If avocados aren’t ripe, use guacamole or skip it entirely for a lighter option.
Tortillas: Warm flour or corn tortillas are classics. If gluten-free, opt for corn tortillas, or for a low-carb option, lettuce wraps are great!
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp just right is key to keeping them tender. Overcooking makes them tough, so watch your timing closely. Here’s how to nail it:
- Heat your skillet until it’s medium-high; this is crucial for getting that nice sear.
- Add the marinated shrimp in a single layer. Don’t crowd the pan; it helps them cook evenly.
- Cook each side for just 2-3 minutes. Look for the shrimp turning pink and opaque.
- Remove them from heat as soon as they’re done to prevent carryover cooking. They’ll keep cooking a bit from the residual heat.
How to Make Skillet Shrimp Fajitas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp and Spice Mix:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Vegetables:
- 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
For Serving:
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Lime wedges for serving
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
- Flour or corn tortillas for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 10 minutes to cook. In less than 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinating the Shrimp:
Start by placing the peeled and deveined shrimp in a large bowl. Add the olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the shrimp are fully coated in the spices. Let them marinate while you prepare the veggies. This step adds lots of flavor!
2. Cooking the Vegetables:
Next, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the sliced onion and bell pepper. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and have a nice char. When done, remove them from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Cooking the Shrimp:
In the same skillet, add the marinated shrimp. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, watching closely. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them; shrimp can become rubbery if cooked too long!
4. Combining Everything:
Now, it’s time to bring everything together! Add the sautéed vegetables back into the skillet with the shrimp. Toss everything gently until heated through, about 1 more minute. The combination of flavors is going to be amazing!
5. Serving Your Fajitas:
To serve, spoon the shrimp and vegetable mixture onto warm tortillas. Top with slices of avocado, a squeeze of fresh lime juice, and sprinkle some chopped cilantro if you like. Enjoy this vibrant and tasty dish with friends or family!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before marinating. You can thaw shrimp overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for about 20-30 minutes. Pat them dry to get rid of excess moisture before marinating!
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer milder fajitas, you can reduce the amount of chili powder or use a mild taco seasoning instead. For added heat, consider including some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. Adjust according to your taste!
What Should I Do With Leftover Fajita Filling?
Leftover shrimp and vegetable mixture can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving it in fresh tortillas or over rice for a quick meal!
Can I Use Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or even corn for added flavor and texture. Just make sure to slice them thinly so they cook evenly with the bell peppers and onions.
