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Cheesy Fajita Smash Tacos for Easy Weeknight Dinners

Updated: 3 days ago

Everyone loves a meal that is crispy, cheesy, juicy, and healthy all at once. These fajita smash tacos combine the best of fajitas and smash tacos into one simple, customizable dinner. They are perfect for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Plus, everyone can build their own taco just the way they like it.


Close-up view of a crispy chicken fajita smash taco topped with melted cheese and roasted peppers
Crispy chicken fajita smash taco with melted cheese and roasted peppers

Ingredients You’ll Need


  • 1 lb ground chicken

  • 1 packet fajita seasoning

  • 3 bell peppers (choose any combination of red, yellow, and green)

  • 1 onion (red, yellow, or white)

  • 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend

  • 4–6 tortillas (Trader Joe’s Carb Savvy tortillas work well for a low-carb option)

  • Oil or cooking spray

  • Toppings like sour cream, avocado, salsa, guacamole, hot sauce, or anything else you love


These ingredients come together to create a meal that is both satisfying and nutritious. Ground chicken keeps it lean and juicy, while the fajita seasoning adds bold flavor. Roasted peppers and onions bring a sweet, smoky touch, and the melted cheese ties everything together.


Step-by-Step Guide to Making Your Smash Tacos


1. Roast the Peppers and Onions

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Slice the bell peppers and onion into thin strips. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for 15 to 20 minutes until they soften and start to caramelize. This roasting step brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to the tacos.


2. Add the Cheese

Once the peppers and onions are roasted, sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese blend over the top. Put the baking sheet back in the oven just long enough for the cheese to melt and become gooey.


3. Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the ground chicken with the fajita seasoning. Mix gently until just combined — overmixing can make the chicken tough. This seasoned chicken will be the crispy, flavorful base of your smash tacos.


4. Form and Smash the Chicken Patties

Lay out your tortillas on a clean surface. Take a handful of the chicken mixture and press it flat onto the center of each tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges. The goal is to create a thin patty that will crisp up nicely when cooked.


5. Cook the Chicken Patties

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and spray it with oil. Place the tortillas chicken-side down in the pan. Cook for about 3 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The tortillas will get crispy, and the chicken will have a nice crust.


6. Assemble Your Tacos

Top each cooked chicken patty with the cheesy roasted peppers and onions. Add your favorite toppings like sour cream, avocado slices, salsa, guacamole, or hot sauce. The combination of textures and flavors makes every bite delicious.


Why These Smash Tacos Work for Weeknights


  • Quick and Easy: The recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. Roasting the veggies and cooking the chicken happen simultaneously, saving time.

  • Customizable: Everyone can build their own taco with their preferred toppings. This makes it great for families or gatherings.

  • Healthy and Balanced: Using ground chicken keeps the protein lean. Roasted veggies add fiber and vitamins. Choosing low-carb tortillas can help keep the meal lighter.

  • Flavorful and Satisfying: The fajita seasoning and melted cheese deliver bold, comforting flavors that feel indulgent without being heavy.


Tips for Making the Best Fajita Smash Tacos


  • Use fresh bell peppers and onions for the best flavor and texture.

  • Don’t skip roasting the veggies — it makes a big difference in taste.

  • Press the chicken mixture firmly but don’t overwork it to keep the patties tender.

  • Use a non-stick skillet or cast iron pan for even cooking and crispiness.

  • Experiment with toppings like pickled jalapeños, fresh cilantro, or lime wedges for extra zing.


These tacos are a great way to bring a little fiesta to your dinner table without the fuss. They balance crispy textures with juicy, cheesy, and fresh elements that everyone will enjoy.


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