If you love sizzling, flavor-packed Tex-Mex meals, then chicken and beef fajitas are probably on your favorites list. These juicy, seasoned strips of meat served in warm tortillas with vibrant toppings are perfect for lunch, dinner, or even festive gatherings. But one question always comes up: What goes with beef and chicken fajitas? Whether you’re hosting a dinner or cooking for yourself, finding the perfect sides, marinades, and sauces is the key to making your fajita night unforgettable.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything from the best fajita marinades and cooking tips to delicious sides, toppings, and healthy swaps—so you’ll never be stuck wondering what to pair with your fajitas again.
What Are Chicken and Beef Fajitas?
Fajitas are a Tex-Mex classic that originated from northern Mexico and southern Texas. Traditionally made using skirt steak, the term “fajita” comes from the Spanish word faja, meaning “strip” or “belt”—referring to the cut of meat.
Today, fajitas are much more versatile, often made with beef, chicken, or both combined. The combination of chicken and beef fajitas brings the best of both worlds—juicy, tender chicken with bold, beefy flavor. This mix is often referred to as “mixed fajitas” on restaurant menus.
What Cut of Meat is Used for Fajitas?
For beef, common cuts include:
- Skirt steak (traditional)
- Flank steak
- Sirloin
For chicken:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best.
Are fajitas chicken or beef?
Both! Fajitas can be made with either chicken or beef—or a mix of the two. It depends on your taste and dietary preference.
Can You Cook Chicken and Beef Fajitas Together?
Yes, you absolutely can—but there are a few safety and flavor tips to follow.
Is It Safe to Mix Chicken and Beef?
While it’s safe to cook both meats in the same pan or grill, they must be handled carefully to avoid cross-contamination. Cook them to proper internal temperatures:
- Chicken: 165°F (74°C)
- Beef: 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare
Should You Cook Them Together?
If you’re using a cast iron skillet or grill, start by cooking beef first (since it takes longer to develop flavor), then cook chicken separately. Once done, combine them for a beautiful fajita mix.
Can you marinate chicken with beef?
Yes, but it’s better to marinate them in separate bags to avoid flavor imbalance or over-marination.
Best Marinade for Chicken and Beef Fajitas
A killer marinade can make or break your fajitas. The good news? Beef and chicken can share a similar base, with some slight tweaks.
Classic Fajita Marinade (For Both Meats)
Here’s a base recipe for 1 lb of meat:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp chili powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
Let your meat marinate for at least 2 hours (preferably overnight) in the refrigerator.
Want It Milder?
To make mild fajita seasoning, simply reduce the chili powder and skip jalapeños or cayenne.
Pro Tip:
Always pat your meat dry before cooking to get that nice sear on a hot cast iron skillet.
Do you marinate fajita meat?
Absolutely. A marinade infuses flavor and keeps the meat tender.
Cooking Tips for Cast Iron Fajitas
Nothing beats the sizzle and char you get from a cast iron skillet or grill pan. Here’s how to get the most out of it:
Heat it Hot
Preheat your skillet for at least 5 minutes. It should be smoking hot before the meat touches it.
Oil the Pan
A light coating of oil (canola or avocado oil) helps prevent sticking and promotes a crispy texture.
Do you use oil for chicken fajitas?
Yes—but go light. Too much oil can make them soggy.
What Cooks First?
- Cook beef first until browned and tender.
- Then cook chicken until fully done.
- Finally, sauté bell peppers and onions in the same pan with leftover marinade drippings.
What Vegetables Go in Fajitas?
When you think of fajitas, colorful, sizzling vegetables come to mind just as much as the meat. Vegetables not only add crunch and texture, but they also balance out the richness of chicken and beef fajitas.
Most Common Vegetables for Fajitas:
- Bell peppers (green, red, yellow, orange – for sweetness & color)
- Onions (white or red, sliced thin)
- Mushrooms (optional, great with steak)
- Zucchini or squash (for a summer twist)
How to Cut Vegetables for Fajitas
- Slice them into thin strips so they cook evenly and fast.
- Cook them after the meat in the same skillet to soak up flavor.
How to jazz up fajitas?
Use smoked paprika, lime zest, or chipotle sauce for extra depth. Roasted corn or jalapeños can also elevate the entire dish.
What Goes With Chicken and Beef Fajitas?
Now, let’s talk about what really brings fajitas to life: sides, toppings, and wraps. These complete your meal and allow for endless customization.
Best Side Dishes:
- Mexican Rice – The most classic pairing
- Cilantro Lime Rice – Light, zesty, and fresh
- Refried Beans or Black Beans – Creamy and filling
- Guacamole – Creamy avocado dip with a citrus punch
- Chips & Salsa – Crunchy and perfect for appetizers
- Grilled Corn or Elote – Sweet and smoky corn on the cob
What rice to serve with fajitas?
Cilantro lime rice or Spanish rice are both excellent choices.
Best Toppings:
- Shredded cheese (Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Queso Fresco)
- Sour cream (or Greek yogurt as a healthy option)
- Fresh salsa or pico de gallo
- Lettuce or shredded cabbage
- Sliced jalapeños or pickled onions
- Avocado slices or guac
Do fajitas have cheese?
Cheese is optional but commonly used as a topping in Tex-Mex fajitas.
Is sour cream healthy?
In moderation, yes. Choose light or Greek yogurt alternatives for fewer calories.
Tortilla Choices:
- Flour tortillas – Soft and traditional
- Corn tortillas – Gluten-free, slightly chewier
- Low-carb wraps – Ideal for health-conscious eaters
How to Eat Fajitas Properly
While fajitas are fun and tasty, they can get messy. Here’s how to do it right. How to Wrap Fajitas:
- Warm your tortilla (grill or microwave)
- Add meat and veggies in the center
- Layer on toppings
- Fold the bottom, then the sides
Are fajitas hard or soft?
Traditionally, fajitas are served in soft tortillas.
Is a fajita a taco?
Not exactly. Tacos are typically smaller with more variety in fillings. Fajitas are usually grilled and served deconstructed so you build your own.
Are Fajitas Healthy?
Fajitas can be as healthy—or indulgent—as you want them to be.
Healthier Options:
- Use lean chicken breast
- Opt for whole-wheat tortillas
- Load up on veggies
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream
- Avoid heavy cheeses or limit portion size
Which is healthier, fajitas or quesadillas?
Fajitas tend to be healthier because they’re grilled, not pan-fried, and are lighter on cheese.
FAQs About Chicken and Beef Fajitas
Are fajitas chicken or beef?
Fajitas can be either or both—often called “mixed fajitas” when combined.
Can you mix chicken and steak together?
Yes, just be sure to cook each properly and keep them separated while raw.
What is a mixed fajita?
It’s a combination of both chicken and beef fajitas served together.
Why is it called a fajita?
From the Spanish word faja, meaning “strip” or “belt,” referencing the cut of meat.
What is the fajita effect?
A psychological phenomenon where the sizzling sound and aroma influence perception of flavor. It’s why restaurants serve them on hot skillets!
Are fajitas healthy?
They can be. Stick to lean meats, light toppings, and lots of veggies.
How to eat fajitas properly?
Wrap your fillings in a warm tortilla, fold, and enjoy. Don’t overstuff.
How to cut chicken for fajitas?
Slice thinly against the grain for tender, juicy pieces.
What to put in a fajita?
Meat, peppers, onions, cheese, sour cream, salsa, lettuce, and avocado.
What rice goes best with fajitas?
Cilantro lime or Spanish rice.
How to make mild fajita seasoning?
Reduce chili powder, skip cayenne, and use smoked paprika with cumin.
Is it safe to mix beef and chicken?
Yes, but cook them separately to avoid contamination and flavor issues.
Do you use oil for chicken fajitas?
Yes, a small amount for cooking and searing.
Can you marinate chicken with beef?
It’s better to marinate them separately for balanced flavor.
What cooks first in fajitas?
Start with beef (longer cooking), then chicken, then veggies.
Are fajitas hard or soft?
Soft tortillas are the traditional base for fajitas.
Do fajitas have cheese?
They can, though it’s usually optional.
How to wrap fajitas?
Fold the bottom up first, then roll the sides inward.
What can I use instead of cumin in fajitas?
Try ground coriander, chili powder, or smoked paprika.
How to make salsa sauce?
Chop tomatoes, onions, cilantro, jalapeños, lime juice, and salt. Blend for smooth or leave chunky.