Chipotle-Style Fajita Veggies: Easy Homemade Recipe for Flavorful Bowls & Tacos

Unlock the secret to irresistible, tender-crisp fajita vegetables right in your own kitchen! This incredibly simple recipe allows you to make chipotle-inspired Fajita Veggies in less than 15 minutes. They are the ultimate addition to your homemade burrito bowls, tacos, nachos, salads, and so much more, bringing that authentic Tex-Mex flavor straight to your table.

What Exactly Are Fajita Veggies at Chipotle?

At their core, Chipotle’s famous fajita veggies are a surprisingly straightforward blend of just a few key ingredients: bell peppers, onions, oregano, oil, and salt. The magic really lies in the cooking method and that signature touch of dried oregano, which elevates the humble vegetables into something truly special.

While Chipotle predominantly uses green bell peppers to achieve their distinctive look and slightly bitter-sweet flavor profile, this recipe is incredibly flexible. Feel free to use any color of bell pepper – red, yellow, or orange – for a delicious variation or a vibrant pop of color in your dish. Each color offers a slightly different sweetness level, so experiment to find your favorite!

For years, I attempted to recreate these delightful fajita vegetables at home, but my efforts always felt like they were missing that authentic “Chipotle” zing. It wasn’t until I stumbled upon their ingredient list on the Chipotle website that I discovered their secret weapon: dried oregano. Adding this herb changed everything, perfectly capturing that elusive flavor I had been chasing. It’s amazing how such a simple ingredient can make such a profound difference.

I bet you, like me, had no idea how easy these were to master in your own kitchen. It truly is one of those recipes that makes you wonder why you didn’t try it sooner!

Why You’ll Love Making These Homemade Chipotle Fajita Veggies

Beyond the undeniable deliciousness and the satisfaction of recreating a restaurant favorite, there are several compelling reasons to add this homemade fajita veggie recipe to your regular rotation:

• Unbeatable Flavor: That signature Chipotle taste is genuinely easy to achieve with just a few ingredients and the right technique. The oregano is key!
• Incredibly Quick: From chopping to serving, these veggies are ready in under 15 minutes. It’s the perfect last-minute addition to any meal.
• Healthier Option: When you make them at home, you have full control over the amount of oil and salt, allowing you to tailor them to your dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor. They are naturally vegan, gluten-free, and packed with nutrients.
• Cost-Effective: Buying bell peppers and an onion is far more economical than constantly adding extra fajita veggies to your takeout orders.
• Versatile: While they shine in burrito bowls and tacos, these veggies are a fantastic base for countless other dishes, adding flavor and texture wherever they go.
• Simple Ingredients: You likely already have most of these pantry staples on hand, making this a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.

How to Make Homemade Chipotle-Style Fajita Veggies

Making these flavorful fajita vegetables is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for perfectly tender-crisp results every time:

Step 1: Prepare Your Vegetables

Begin by thinly slicing one large red onion and two green bell peppers into thick, uniform strips. The thicker cut is crucial here; it helps the vegetables maintain a satisfying crunch and prevents them from becoming mushy during cooking. Aim for strips that are roughly 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick for the best texture, mimicking that perfect bite you get at Chipotle. While green bell peppers are traditional for that authentic Chipotle look and flavor, don’t hesitate to use red, yellow, or orange bell peppers for added sweetness and color.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

Place a large skillet (a cast-iron skillet works wonders for an even cook and slight char) over medium heat and add the olive oil. Allow the oil to heat up until it shimmers slightly – this ensures the vegetables start cooking immediately and get that lovely tender-crisp texture without becoming greasy.

Step 3: Add Veggies and Seasonings

Carefully add the sliced red onion and bell peppers to the hot skillet. Sprinkle in the salt and, most importantly, the dried oregano. Stir everything together thoroughly, making sure the vegetables are well-coated with the oil and spices. Even distribution is key for consistent flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Sauté to Tender-Crisp Perfection

Sauté the fajita veggies for approximately 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’re looking for a “tender-crisp” texture – the vegetables should be slightly softened but still retain a pleasant bite, with some light charring around the edges for added flavor. Overcooking can lead to soggy veggies, so keep a close eye on them. Once they reach your desired consistency, remove the skillet from the heat and serve immediately to enjoy them at their best.

Serving Suggestions for Your Homemade Fajita Veggies

From start to finish, these delectable fajita veggies are ready in a mere 15 minutes, making them an ideal component for quick and flavorful meals. Their versatility is truly unmatched, making them a fantastic addition to almost any meal. Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy them:

• Burrito Bowls: This is our absolute favorite! We regularly create homemade burrito bowls for dinner. Pair these veggies with a base of cauliflower rice or traditional rice, roasted sweet potatoes, creamy guacamole, fresh cherry tomatoes, savory black beans, crispy tofu, or your favorite protein.
• Tacos and Wraps: Pile them high into warm tortillas with your choice of fillings for a quick and satisfying taco night.
• Nachos: Scatter them over a bed of crispy tortilla chips with melted cheese and other toppings for an ultimate snack or appetizer.
• Salads: Add a burst of flavor and texture to any green salad. They’re especially good in a Mexican-inspired salad.
• Omelets and Scrambles: Incorporate them into your breakfast eggs for a healthy and hearty start to your day.
• Side Dish: Serve them alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish as a vibrant and nutritious side.
• Quesadillas: Layer them inside quesadillas with cheese for a cheesy, veggie-packed delight.

While I typically use a skillet to achieve that perfect sauté, these fajita veggies would also be absolutely fantastic grilled if you have access to an outdoor grill. The smoky char from grilling would add another layer of incredible flavor!

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

These homemade fajita veggies are fantastic for meal prepping! You can make a larger batch at the beginning of the week and have them ready to add to various meals.

• Storage: Allow the cooked fajita veggies to cool completely. Transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat the veggies in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through. This helps to maintain their tender-crisp texture. You can also microwave them, though they might lose some of their crispness.
• Freezing: While technically possible, freezing may alter the texture of the bell peppers and onions, making them softer upon thawing. If you choose to freeze, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 1-2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a hot skillet.

Final Thoughts: Your New Go-To Side Dish

These homemade Chipotle-style fajita veggies are more than just a side dish; they’re a versatile flavor booster that can transform simple meals into something truly exciting. Their quick preparation time, simple ingredients, and incredible taste make them an absolute must-try for anyone who loves fresh, vibrant flavors and easy cooking. Whether you’re assembling a gourmet burrito bowl or simply looking for a healthy, delicious accompaniment, these fajita vegetables will not disappoint. Get ready to impress your taste buds and those of your family and friends with this fantastic copycat recipe!

4.78 from 9 votes

Fajita Veggies (Chipotle Copycat)

By:

Joy Shull

Just like chipotle fajita veggies recipe that you can make at home. Vegan, gluten free and tastes just like the dish at the popular restaurant chain!

Prep:

5 minutes
mins

Cook:

8 minutes
mins

Total:

13 minutes
mins

Servings:
6

Save Recipe
Saved!
Pin Recipe
Rate Recipe
Print Recipe

Ingredients 

• 
  ▢
  
  
  1
  large red onion,
  sliced

• 
  ▢
  
  
  2
  green bell peppers,
  sliced

• 
  ▢
  
  
  3
  tablespoons
  olive oil

• 
  ▢
  
  
  1
  teaspoon
  dried oregano

• 
  ▢
  
  
  1/2
  teaspoon
  salt

Instructions 

• Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Add the sliced red onion, bell pepper, oregano, and salt and stir to combine.
• Cook the fajita veggies for 8 – 10 minutes, until tender crisp. Remove from the heat and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories:
78
kcal

,

Carbohydrates:
4
g

,

Protein:
1
g

,

Fat:
7
g

,

Saturated Fat:
1
g

,

Polyunsaturated Fat:
1
g

,

Monounsaturated Fat:
5
g

,

Sodium:
196
mg

,

Potassium:
100
mg

,

Fiber:
1
g

,

Sugar:
2
g

,

Vitamin A:
153
IU

,

Vitamin C:
33
mg

,

Calcium:
14
mg

,

Iron:
0.3
mg

Like this recipe? Rate and comment below!