Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is the epitome of convenience, allowing you to enjoy a flavorful, homemade meal with minimal effort. Thanks to the slow cooker, you can simply toss everything in and let it cook while you go about your day. The addition of cream cheese makes these fajitas decadently creamy, while the bell peppers and onions add a delightful crunch and flavor. Plus, serving them over cauliflower rice keeps the meal low-carb, making it ideal for anyone following a keto or low-carb diet.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (fresh or frozen, thawed)
- 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced into strips
- 1 medium sweet onion, sliced into strips
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup salsa
- 8 oz cream cheese, cubed
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and garlic on top of the chicken.
- Pour the salsa over the vegetables and chicken, then add the cubed cream cheese.
- Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper over the ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
- Once the chicken is cooked through and shreds easily with a fork, shred the chicken in the slow cooker and stir everything together.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over the chicken and serve it over cauliflower rice or in a lettuce wrap for a low-carb meal. Top with avocado, cheese, and sour cream for extra flavor.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Cooking time: 3-6 hours in the crockpot (on high or low)
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with tofu or additional vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms for a vegetarian fajita.
- Add Spice: For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce to the crockpot.
- Different Proteins: You can also substitute chicken with boneless skinless chicken thighs or beef for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the fajitas in a microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. If the mixture seems too thick, add a little water or broth to loosen it.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, and always check that the chicken is cooked through before shredding.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add sliced jalapeños or use a spicier salsa to bring more heat to the dish. You can also sprinkle some cayenne pepper into the seasoning.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work well and provide a slightly richer flavor.
Can I freeze the fajitas?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked fajitas in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What can I serve with these fajitas?
Serve them with a side of cilantro lime cauliflower rice, regular rice, or tortilla chips. They also pair well with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.
How do I store the leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can cook the fajitas in an Instant Pot on high pressure for about 15 minutes, then shred the chicken and stir in the cream cheese and seasonings.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it contains no wheat-based ingredients.
How do I make these fajitas low-carb?
Serve the fajitas over cauliflower rice, in lettuce wraps, or in low-carb tortillas for a satisfying, low-carb meal.
Can I use store-bought salsa?
Yes, store-bought salsa works great for this recipe. Just make sure it’s a variety you enjoy!
Conclusion
These Crockpot Chicken Fajitas are a perfect solution for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead. With minimal prep and a delicious, creamy twist, you can enjoy a satisfying and flavorful meal that fits into a low-carb lifestyle. Whether you're enjoying them over cauliflower rice or in a wrap, this easy dish will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Crockpot Chicken Fajitas
These Crockpot Chicken Fajitas are a delicious and effortless low-carb meal. Made with tender slow-cooked chicken, bell peppers, onions, and a creamy blend of salsa and cream cheese, they offer a comforting twist on traditional fajitas. Perfect for meal prepping or busy weeknights, you can serve them over cauliflower rice, in lettuce wraps, or low-carb tortillas for a satisfying and healthy dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-6 hours (depending on slow cooker setting)
- Total Time: 3-6 hours
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner, Low-Carb, Keto
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (fresh or frozen, thawed)
- 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced into strips
- 1 medium sweet onion, sliced into strips
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup salsa
- 8 oz cream cheese, cubed
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic on top of the chicken.
- Pour the salsa over the vegetables and chicken, followed by the cubed cream cheese.
- Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper on top of the ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours.
- Once the chicken is fully cooked and easily shreds with a fork, shred the chicken in the slow cooker and stir everything together.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture, and serve over cauliflower rice or in a lettuce wrap for a low-carb meal. Top with avocado, cheese, and sour cream for extra flavor.
Notes
- Vegetarian Option: Swap out the chicken for tofu or additional veggies like zucchini and mushrooms.
- Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Different Proteins: You can substitute chicken with chicken thighs or beef for a unique flavor profile.
