Skillet Shrimp Fajitas are a fun and tasty way to enjoy dinner! Juicy shrimp sizzle with colorful peppers and onions, all seasoned to perfection for a burst of flavor.
This dish is quick to make, perfect for busy nights or when you want to impress friends. Just toss everything in a skillet, and enjoy wrapped in warm tortillas. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Medium shrimp is best for this recipe because they cook quickly and are easy to eat. If you’re allergic or don’t like shrimp, consider using chicken breast or tofu instead.
Olive Oil: It adds richness to the shrimp. You could substitute it with avocado oil or even a bit of coconut oil for a different flavor.
Spices (Chili Powder, Cumin, Paprika): These spices give the dish a Tex-Mex flavor. If you’re looking for more heat, add cayenne pepper! For milder spices, use smoked paprika or paprika with a lower heat level.
Bell Peppers: Red and green peppers provide sweetness and color. Feel free to swap them for yellow or orange peppers, or even use zucchini or mushrooms for a twist.
Avocado: It adds creaminess. If you don’t have avocado, try sour cream or Greek yogurt as a topping instead.
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly Without Overcooking?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky since they can easily become rubbery if overcooked. Here’s how to ensure they’re perfectly cooked:
- Marinate shrimp briefly (15-20 minutes). This enhances flavor but prevents mushiness.
- Cook shrimp in a hot skillet. Aim for medium-high heat to ensure they sear nicely.
- Watch closely as they turn pink and opaque, usually 2-3 minutes per side. Remove them just before they look completely cooked; residual heat will finish them off.
How to Make Skillet Shrimp Fajitas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Vegetables:
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
For Serving:
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Lime wedges
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
- Tortillas (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 35-40 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 20 minutes marinating the shrimp and then cook everything in about 15-20 minutes. It’s a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Shrimp:
In a medium bowl, place the peeled and deveined shrimp. Add the olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the shrimp are well-coated. Let them marinate for about 15-20 minutes while you prepare the vegetables.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the marinated shrimp. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed, then toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables become tender and have a slight char.
4. Combine and Heat Through:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Mix everything together until it’s heated through—this should take just 1-2 minutes. Give it a taste and adjust any seasonings if needed!
5. Serve It Up:
Remove the skillet from heat. Serve the shrimp and veggies with slices of avocado and lime wedges on the side. You can also sprinkle fresh cilantro on top if you like! Don’t forget the warm tortillas for making your delicious fajitas.
6. Enjoy!
Assemble your fajitas by placing the shrimp and veggies in the tortillas, adding your favorite toppings, and enjoy a tasty homemade meal!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp before marinating. You can quickly thaw shrimp by placing them in a sealed bag and submerging in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before marinating.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you like a little heat, try adding some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the shrimp marinade. You can also serve with a spicy salsa or hot sauce on the side for an extra kick!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the shrimp marinade and slice the vegetables in advance. Store the shrimp in the refrigerator for no more than 24 hours before cooking, and keep the veggies in a separate airtight container. However, for the freshest taste, it’s best to cook it right before serving!
How to Store Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also enjoy it cold in a salad or as a filling in a wrap!
