Looking to spice up your healthy eating routine? Look no further than this mouthwatering recipe for Grilled Chicken and Vegetable Fajitas! Made with tender, flavorful chicken and a colorful array of vegetables, this Weight Watchers-friendly dish is not only delicious, but also guilt-free. With just the right amount of seasoning and a sizzle on the grill, these fajitas are sure to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation. Get ready to enjoy the flavors of a Mexican fiesta without compromising your wellness goals!
Ingredients
Chicken breast
To make these delicious grilled chicken and vegetable fajitas, you will need some chicken breast. Chicken breast is lean and packed with protein, making it a perfect choice for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Mixed bell peppers
Mixed bell peppers not only add a burst of color to your fajitas but also provide a variety of nutrients. They are a great source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber.
Red onion
Red onions add a hint of sweetness and a beautiful color to your fajitas. They are also rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties.
Zucchini and Yellow squash
Zucchini and yellow squash are low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals. They add a nice crunch to your fajitas and offer a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.
Lime
Lime juice is used in both the marinade and as a garnish for your fajitas. It adds a refreshing citrus flavor and enhances the taste of the other ingredients.
Olive oil
Olive oil is a healthier alternative to other cooking oils. It is rich in monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce bad cholesterol levels.
WW-friendly tortillas
To keep this recipe WW-friendly, opt for whole wheat tortillas. They are high in fiber and lower in calories compared to regular tortillas, making them a smart choice for a balanced diet.
Cilantro
Cilantro adds a bright and fresh flavor to your fajitas. It is also a good source of vitamins A and K, as well as antioxidants.
Spices (cumin, paprika, garlic powder, chili powder)
These spices add depth and flavor to your fajitas. Cumin adds a warm and earthy taste, paprika brings smokiness, garlic powder adds a savory note, and chili powder provides a pleasant kick.
Salt and pepper
Salt and pepper are essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste of your dish. Use them to add a pinch of flavor to your fajitas.
Marinade
Lime juice
Lime juice is the star ingredient of the marinade. It adds a tangy and refreshing taste to your chicken and veggies.
Olive oil
Olive oil helps to coat the chicken and veggies, ensuring they cook evenly and have a delicious flavor.
Spices (cumin, paprika, garlic powder, chili powder)
The spices in the marinade infuse the chicken and veggies with robust and aromatic flavors. They complement the lime juice and olive oil perfectly.
Salt and pepper
These basic seasonings help to bring out the flavors of all the other ingredients in the marinade, creating a well-balanced and tasty dish.
Instructions
Prepare the vegetables
Start by preparing the vegetables for your fajitas. Slice the mixed bell peppers into thin strips, finely chop the red onion, and cut the zucchini and yellow squash into similar-sized strips. This will ensure that they cook evenly on the grill.
Slice the chicken breast
Next, slice the chicken breast into thin strips. By cutting the chicken into smaller pieces, it will cook faster and be easier to eat in the fajitas.
Prepare the marinade
In a bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, spices (cumin, paprika, garlic powder, chili powder), salt, and pepper. This marinade will help to tenderize the chicken and infuse it with delicious flavors.
Marinate the chicken and veggies
Place the sliced chicken and prepared vegetables into a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken and veggies, ensuring they are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the ingredients.
Preheat the grill
While the chicken and veggies are marinating, preheat the grill to medium heat. This will ensure that the fajitas cook evenly and develop a nice grilled flavor.
Grill the chicken and veggies
Once the grill is preheated, carefully place the marinated chicken and veggies onto the grill grates. Cook them for about 4-6 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender-crisp. Make sure to turn the chicken and veggies occasionally for even cooking.
Warm the tortillas
While the chicken and veggies are grilling, warm the WW-friendly tortillas. You can either wrap them in foil and place them on the grill for a few minutes or heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side. This will make the tortillas soft and pliable, perfect for rolling your fajitas.
Assemble your fajitas
Once the chicken and veggies are cooked, remove them from the grill. Begin assembling your fajitas by laying a tortilla flat on a plate. Place a portion of the grilled chicken and veggies onto the tortilla and fold it tightly, securing the filling inside. Repeat this process for the remaining tortillas and filling.
Garnish and enjoy
Finally, garnish your fajitas with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice. The cilantro adds a burst of freshness, while the lime juice enhances the flavors. Now, it’s time to enjoy your delicious and healthy grilled chicken and vegetable fajitas!
Nutritional Information
Calories
The exact calorie count will depend on the specific ingredients and quantities used. However, this WW-friendly recipe is designed to be a lighter option compared to traditional fajitas, providing a satisfying meal without excessive calories.
Protein
Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, which helps to support muscle growth and repair.
Total fat
The use of olive oil and lean chicken breast helps to keep the overall fat content of these fajitas relatively low.
Carbohydrates
The vegetables and tortillas in this recipe provide carbohydrates, which are an important energy source.
Fiber
The inclusion of whole wheat tortillas and vegetables ensures a good amount of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps to keep you feeling full.
Sugar
This recipe does not contain added sugar. The natural sugars in the vegetables add a touch of sweetness without overwhelming the overall flavors.
Sodium
The sodium content can be adjusted to taste. Using spices in the marinade can help reduce the need for additional salt, making this recipe a healthier choice.
Tips and Variations
Use whole wheat tortillas for added fiber
If you’re looking to increase your fiber intake, opt for whole wheat tortillas. They provide more fiber and can help keep you feeling fuller for longer.
Add sliced avocado for a creamier texture
For a creamy twist, add some sliced avocado to your fajitas. Avocado is rich in healthy fats and adds a luscious texture to the dish.
Swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option
If you prefer seafood or are following a vegetarian diet, consider swapping the chicken for shrimp or tofu. Both options can be marinated and grilled to perfection, providing a delicious alternative protein.
Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice on top before serving
To enhance the citrus flavors, squeeze a bit of fresh lime juice on top of your assembled fajitas before serving. This simple touch adds a burst of tanginess and brightens up the dish.
Whether you’re following the WW program or simply looking for a nutritious and tasty meal, these grilled chicken and vegetable fajitas are an excellent choice. Packed with protein, fiber, and a variety of colorful vegetables, they offer a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience. So fire up the grill, prepare the marinade, and get ready to enjoy these flavorful fajitas that are both WW-friendly and delicious!
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