How to Make Fajitas at Home for Under $2

Key Takeaway:

Learn how to prepare delicious fajitas at home, packed with flavor and all the traditional fixings, for less than $2 per serving.

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If you love fajitas but hate the price tag at restaurants, why not make them at home for a fraction of the cost? Here’s how you can create a fantastic fajita meal that’s budget-friendly and bursting with Tex-Mex flavors.

What Makes Up a Fajita Meal?

To recreate the perfect fajita experience at home, you’ll need the following components:

• Meat: Marinated chicken thighs grilled to perfection.
• Vegetables: Colorful bell peppers and onions, sautéed to tender-crisp.
• Beans: Flavorful pinto beans cooked with chorizo for richness.
• Rice: Mexican-style rice with a smoky chipotle flavor.
• Tortillas: Essential for wrapping up all the delicious ingredients.
• Optional Extras: Cheese, guacamole, or pico de gallo (depending on your preference and budget).

Recipe Steps:

1. Mexican Rice:

• Rinse and drain basmati rice.
• Sauté garlic, then add chipotle powder, cumin, and rice. Toast lightly.
• Transfer to a rice cooker with crushed tomatoes and chicken stock. Cook until done.

1. Papa’s Beans (Pinto Beans with Chorizo):

• Char tomatoes, peel, dice, and set aside.
• Cook chorizo until browned, then add onions, jalapeños (or bell pepper), and garlic.
• Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken stock, and drained pinto beans. Simmer until flavors meld.

1. Grilled Chicken Thighs:

• Flatten chicken thighs, season generously with chipotle powder, cumin, cinnamon, and salt.
• Grill over medium-high heat until fully cooked and slightly charred. Let rest before slicing.

1. Fajita Vegetables:

• Sauté sliced onions and bell peppers until caramelized, then add garlic at the end for flavor.

1. Assembly:

• Heat tortillas and layer with beans, rice, grilled chicken, fajita vegetables, and optional toppings like cheese or guacamole.
• Fold and enjoy your homemade fajitas!

Cost Calculation:

• Total Cost per Serving: Approximately $1.90

Taste and Quality:

By making fajitas at home, you control the ingredients and flavors, ensuring a delicious meal that rivals any restaurant dish. Each component contributes to a satisfying Tex-Mex experience without the hefty bill.

Conclusion:

Creating restaurant-style fajitas on a budget is achievable with a little preparation and attention to detail. Enjoy the flavors of Mexico without overspending, and customize your fajitas to suit your taste preferences.

Now, dig into homemade fajitas that are as affordable as they are flavorful!