Easy Chicken Fajita Cups Recipe
Introduction
These Easy Chicken Fajita Cups are a flavorful and fun twist on classic fajitas. Packed with seasoned chicken, sautéed peppers, and melted cheese, they make a perfect party appetizer or a simple weeknight meal.

Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 large chicken breast
- 1.9 ounce box of phyllo shells (15 count)
- ½ cup sliced bell peppers
- ¼ cup sliced yellow onions
- ¼ cup refried beans
- Cilantro for garnish
- Shredded cheese for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- Step 2: Thinly slice the chicken breast. In a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, combine the chicken, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the chicken is nearly cooked through.
- Step 3: Add the sliced bell peppers and onions to the skillet. Continue cooking until the onions are caramelized and the peppers are tender. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Step 4: Place the phyllo shells on the prepared baking sheet. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of refried beans into each shell.
- Step 5: Evenly distribute the chicken and vegetable mixture among the phyllo cups. Top each with shredded cheese if desired.
- Step 6: Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the phyllo cups are golden and toasted, and the cheese is melted.
- Step 7: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Tips & Variations
- For added heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes into the chicken mixture while cooking.
- Use a variety of colored bell peppers for a visually appealing dish.
- Substitute refried beans with black beans for a different texture and flavor.
- To make it vegetarian, replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu.
- Serve with sour cream or guacamole for extra creaminess.
Storage
Store any leftover fajita cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as the phyllo cups may become soggy.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare the chicken mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook and season the chicken mixture a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and assemble the fajita cups just before baking for best results.
What if I can’t find phyllo shells?
If phyllo shells aren’t available, you can use mini tortilla cups or even small puff pastry shells as a substitute. Just adjust baking time according to the shell type.
Print
Easy Chicken Fajita Cups Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 15 cups 1x
Description
These Easy Chicken Fajita Cups are a delicious and convenient twist on classic fajitas, using crispy phyllo shells filled with seasoned chicken, sautéed bell peppers and onions, and creamy refried beans. Perfect as a quick appetizer or a fun meal, they combine vibrant fajita flavors with a delightful crunch.
Ingredients
Fajita Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
Fajita Cups
- 1 large chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 1.9 ounce box of Phyllo Shells (15 count)
- ½ cup sliced bell peppers
- ¼ cup sliced yellow onions
- ¼ cup refried beans
- Cilantro for garnish
- Cheese for topping (optional, estimated ½ cup shredded cheese)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set it aside for later use.
- Cook Chicken and Seasoning: Place the thinly sliced chicken breast in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes until it is fully cooked and absorbs the spices.
- Add Vegetables: Add the sliced bell peppers and yellow onions to the skillet with the chicken. Continue cooking until the onions are caramelized and the peppers are tender. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
- Assemble Fajita Cups: In each phyllo shell, spoon approximately 1 teaspoon of refried beans evenly. Next, fill each cup with the cooked chicken and vegetable mixture. Optionally, top each cup with shredded cheese to add a gooey texture after baking.
- Bake: Place the filled phyllo cups on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the phyllo cups are toasted and the cheese has melted.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the cups from the oven and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately to enjoy the crispy texture and warm flavors.
Notes
- To make the dish vegetarian, omit the chicken and add extra bell peppers or mushrooms.
- For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or extra chili powder in the seasoning mix.
- Phyllo shells can be found in the frozen section of most grocery stores and should be handled gently to avoid breakage.
- Leftover fajita cups can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven for best texture retention.
- Cheese is optional but recommended for added flavor and texture. Monterey Jack or cheddar work well.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Keywords: Chicken Fajita Cups, Easy Appetizer, Phyllo Shells, Mexican Recipe, Party Snacks, Chicken Fajitas

