Name: Sheet Pan Chicken Sausage Fajitas
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 (12 ounce) chicken sausage (sliced); 2 small red bell peppers (seeded and thinly sliced); 2 small orange bell peppers (seeded and thinly sliced); 2 small yellow bell peppers (seeded and thinly sliced); 1 small red onion (peeled and thinly sliced); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons cornstarch; 2 teaspoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon cumin; ½ teaspoon oregano; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); 12 (6-inch) flour tortillas (lightly steamed); ½ cup minced cilantro; ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese

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When I think about cozy weeknight dinners, Sheet Pan Chicken Sausage Fajitas immediately comes to my mind. It’s that perfect blend of flavors, colors, and textures that can brighten up any mundane evening. The ease of tossing everything onto a sheet pan makes it a go-to for busy nights when you want something hearty without a lot of fuss. I remember the first time I made these; I was looking for a simple yet satisfying meal that my family would love. The aroma of the sizzling chicken sausage and vibrant bell peppers filled the kitchen, instantly creating a homely atmosphere. Each bite was bursting with zesty flavors, and I knew I had stumbled upon something special.

Gathering around the table, we couldn’t help but chat excitedly about our day while enjoying the colorful tortillas filled with a savory mix. Every bite was a delicious reminder of how food brings people together. The versatility of these fajitas is also a major plus—they’re not just for dinner! My friends and I have enjoyed them during casual gatherings, and they’ve always been a hit, disappearing faster than I can say ‘fajitas.’ Plus, the cleanup is a breeze! With just one pan to wash, I can indulge in the post-meal relaxation instead of dreading the kitchen mess!

So if you’re looking to impress someone special or just want to enjoy a comforting meal yourself, the Sheet Pan Chicken Sausage Fajitas might just be your new favorite recipe. You’ll find that it’s not just about the food; it’s about the memories you create while eating it!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
35 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
20 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free

Fat:
14 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Whisk, Oven, Peeler, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon, Baking Sheet

Why This Sheet Pan Chicken Sausage Fajitas Is So Good

Convenience at Its Best

One of the best things about Sheet Pan Chicken Sausage Fajitas is how easy they are to prepare. Simply slice the ingredients, toss them together, and let the oven do the work. It’s a fantastic way to put a wholesome meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen.

Flavor-Packed Goodness

The combination of chicken sausage and roasted bell peppers creates an explosion of flavors. Each bite is a delicious mix of savory and sweet, complemented by the spices that bring everything together nicely. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Colorful & Vibrant

Food should be a feast for the eyes too! The variety of colorful bell peppers and onions not only adds flavor but also looks appealing on the plate. It’s a dish that makes you want to dig in right away, and it’s perfect for entertaining guests.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a fun gathering with friends, these fajitas fit right in. They’re great for game nights or just a cozy meal at home. You can even serve them in a buffet style, allowing everyone to customize their own tortillas!

Healthy and Wholesome

With plenty of vegetables and lean protein, Sheet Pan Chicken Sausage Fajitas are a nutritious option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. You can feel good about serving them to your loved ones, and they’re a great way to sneak in those veggies!

Easy Cleanup

Let’s be honest, after a long day, the last thing you want is a mountain of dishes. The beauty of this recipe is that everything cooks on one sheet pan. Once dinner is over, just a quick wash-up, and you’re done!

Recipe Ingredients for Sheet Pan Chicken Sausage Fajitas

The ingredients for Sheet Pan Chicken Sausage Fajitas are thoughtfully chosen to complement each other perfectly. The harmony of flavors from the chicken sausage and assorted bell peppers creates a satisfying dish, making it a delightful option for any meal.

2 (12 ounce) packages chicken sausage, sliced
The star ingredient, offering a savory base with a hint of spice.
2 small red bell peppers, seeded and thinly sliced
Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant color to the mix.
2 small orange bell peppers, seeded and thinly sliced
A sweeter alternative that balances out the savory flavors.
2 small yellow bell peppers, seeded and thinly sliced
Brings a sunny hue and mild sweetness to the dish.
1 small red onion, peeled and thinly sliced
Provides a tangy depth and aromatic flavor.
2 tablespoons olive oil
Helps to coat the vegetables and meats, ensuring crisp edges.
2 teaspoons cornstarch
Aids in achieving a slight crispness on the sausage and veggies.
2 teaspoons chili powder
Infuses warmth and depth with a kick of spice.
1 teaspoon kosher salt
Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Adds a subtle smokiness that elevates the overall taste.
½ teaspoon cumin
Brings an earthy depth, making the dish more complex.
½ teaspoon oregano
A classic herb that complements the other spices beautifully.
½ teaspoon garlic powder
A hint of garlic flavor without overpowering the dish.
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
Packs a punch for those who enjoy an extra kick.
12 (6-inch) flour tortillas, lightly steamed
The perfect vessel for holding all the delicious ingredients.
½ cup minced cilantro
Adds freshness and a pop of flavor to each bite.
½ cup crumbled cotija cheese
Offers a creamy richness that ties the whole dish together.

The Method for Sheet Pan Chicken Sausage Fajitas

Cooking Sheet Pan Chicken Sausage Fajitas is as straightforward as it gets. Just follow these simple steps for a flavorful dish that’s sure to impress everyone around the table.

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. This is important to ensure that the cooking process starts right and helps achieve that lovely roasted finish.
Line two rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper. This makes for easy cleanup and prevents sticking, allowing the ingredients to roast beautifully.
In a large bowl, combine the sliced chicken sausage, bell peppers, onion, and olive oil. Make sure everything is evenly distributed. The olive oil will help the veggies roast and develop flavor.
In a separate, smaller bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, chili powder, kosher salt, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, garlic powder, and optional cayenne pepper. This spice mix is what gives the fajitas their unique flavor profile.
Sprinkle the spice mix over the sausage and peppers. Stir everything together to ensure that the sausage and veggies are evenly coated with the spices. You want every bite to be packed with flavor!
Distribute half of the mixture onto each lined baking sheet. Spread them out into a thin layer to promote even roasting. Crowding the pan can cause steaming instead of roasting, which isn’t what you want.
Bake for about 15 minutes. Be sure to stir halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning. You’re looking for a golden brown color on the edges, which indicates that the sausage and veggies are perfectly cooked.
If you want an even browner color, feel free to put the trays under the broiler for a few minutes at the end, but keep a close eye on them! Things can burn quickly under the broiler.
Once done, remove the trays from the oven. Serve the roasted mixture on the flour tortillas, topped with a sprinkle of cilantro and cotija cheese. You can also add any other toppings you love!

Things Worth Knowing

Using parchment paper not only makes cleanup easier but also helps in achieving a nice crisp on your vegetables and sausage.
Feel free to customize your veggies. Adding some zucchini or mushrooms can bring additional flavors and textures.
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken sausage in spices for a couple of hours before cooking. The flavors will intensify!
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator.

Tips and Tricks about Sheet Pan Chicken Sausage Fajitas

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your fajitas turn out perfectly delicious every time!

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick meal.
Freezing: You can freeze the cooked fajitas for up to two months. Just ensure they’re in a freezer-safe container to maintain their texture.
Pairing: Serve these fajitas with a side of guacamole or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Meal Prep: Prepare the vegetables and slice the sausage ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator to make cooking even quicker on busy nights!
Customizing: Feel free to add other toppings like sour cream, avocado, or jalapeños to suit your taste preferences.

Perfect Matches for Sheet Pan Chicken Sausage Fajitas

When it comes to enjoying your Sheet Pan Chicken Sausage Fajitas, there are plenty of delicious options to consider. Here are some great pairings that will enhance your meal experience:

Guacamole: A creamy and rich addition that pairs beautifully with the spiced sausage and crunchy veggies.
Mexican Rice: Serve alongside fluffy Mexican rice to soak up any extra flavors from the fajitas.
Fresh Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad can balance the heartiness of the fajitas, making for a lighter meal option.
Fruit Salsa: A sweet and tangy fruit salsa can add a vibrant flavor twist, complementing the savory notes of the fajitas.
Chips and Salsa: Don’t forget the classic pairing of tortilla chips and salsa for a fun appetizer or side.
Casual Gatherings: These fajitas are perfect for parties. Set up a build-your-own fajita station for guests to enjoy!

FAQ

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for chicken sausage, you can easily swap in your favorite type of sausage. Just keep in mind that different sausages may have varying levels of spice and flavor, so adjust your seasoning accordingly. If you prefer a vegetarian option, there are also plant-based sausages available that work beautifully with this recipe.

Fajitas are versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. You might consider pairing them with guacamole, sour cream, or a refreshing salad. If you’re looking for something heartier, Mexican rice or refried beans make great accompaniments. You can even create a fajita bar, allowing everyone to customize their toppings and sides!

Leftover Sheet Pan Chicken Sausage Fajitas can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat them, simply reheat in the oven or microwave. For longer storage, consider freezing them for up to two months. Just ensure they’re in a freezer-safe container to maintain their quality.

Yes, you can definitely prep the ingredients in advance! Slice the vegetables and sausage the night before and store them in the refrigerator. You can also make the spice mix ahead of time. When you’re ready to cook, simply toss everything together and bake. This makes it super convenient for busy weeknights!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Sheet Pan Chicken Sausage Fajitas stand out as a delicious option for any meal. The easy preparation and vibrant flavors make it a family favorite that you’ll want to make again and again. I encourage you to try this recipe for your next dinner. It’s simple, full of flavor, and sure to bring smiles around the table!