10 Tasty Sides That Pair Perfectly with Chicken Fajitas

Chicken fajitas are a staple of Tex-Mex cuisine – strips of juicy chicken breast seasoned with chili powder and other spices, then quickly grilled or sauteed with bell peppers and onions. When you bite into a warm flour tortilla stuffed with these flavorful fillings, the combination of savory chicken, sweet onions, and slightly charred veggies is simply delicious.

But what are some tasty side dishes that can complement chicken fajitas and make your Mexican feast complete? Here are 10 flavorful sides that pair wonderfully with classic chicken fajitas:

1. Spanish Rice

Spanish rice is a staple side dish in Mexican cooking, with its hallmark flavors of tomato, garlic, and onions. Sautéeing the rice with these aromatic ingredients gives it a reddish color and infuses it with flavor. Spanish rice goes great with chicken fajitas, soaking up any extra juices while providing a neutral base that doesn’t overpower the other ingredients. Make sure to season your Spanish rice with cumin, chili powder, cilantro, and lime juice to tie it together with the Mexican seasonings used on the fajitas.

2. Refried Beans

Warm creamy refried beans are another excellent accompaniment for chicken fajitas. Their smooth mildly spicy flavor complements the chicken and veggies perfectly. Plus, refried beans add protein and fiber to help make your fajitas a balanced meal. To quickly prepare refried beans, sautée onion and garlic in oil, then mash pinto beans with the onion mixture. Season to taste with cumin, cayenne, and salt. The beans’ texture contrasts nicely with the fajitas’ crunch.

3. Guacamole

No Mexican meal feels complete without some creamy, green guacamole. The cool avocado base pairs nicely with spicy chicken fajitas. For basic guac, simply mash ripe avocados with lime juice, diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and salt. Spice it up with minced jalapenos or serranos if you want an extra kick. Guacamole’s rich texture and bright flavors are a refreshing contrast to the fajitas.

4. Pico de Gallo

Also known as salsa fresca, pico de gallo is a simple diced salad of tomatoes, onions, jalapenos cilantro and lime. It adds a fresh, vibrant crunch to balance the fajitas’ warm flavors. Pico de gallo is quick to throw together, yet it packs a tasty punch. The acidity of the tomato and lime cuts through the fajitas’ richness nicely. Adjust the jalapeno to your desired spice level.

5. Corn on the Cob

What’s more classic than corn on the cob alongside Mexican food? Grilled corn brushed with lime-chili butter is an easy vegetable side for chicken fajitas. The sweet corn kernels pair nicely with the fajitas’ seasoning, while the lime butter adds tangy brightness. Grill the corn until slightly charred for a smoky depth of flavor. Slather on spicy mayo made with Mexican crema for extra decadence.

6. Chopped Cabbage Slaw

For a veggie-centric side, try an easy cabbage slaw tossed with cilantro lime dressing Thinly sliced cabbage and carrots give refreshing crunch to contrast the fajitas’ tender textures. Their neutral flavor won’t compete with the highly seasoned chicken and peppers A chili-lime vinaigrette pulls the slaw together with the Mexican flavors. Toss in fresh cilantro for extra flavor.

7. Black Beans

Hearty black beans make a satisfying side for chicken fajitas. Their rich, earthy flavor stands up well to the bold seasonings. Sauté chopped onions, garlic, and bell pepper, then add black beans and broth. Season with cumin, oregano, and chili powder. The beans’ creamy texture paired with crunchy veggies complements the fajitas nicely. They also add valuable protein and fiber.

8. Mexican Street Corn

For a fun twist, try Mexican street corn off the cob as a side for chicken fajitas. The sweet corn mingles deliciously with tangy cotija cheese, spicy mayo, zippy chili powder, and fresh lime. Stir together grilled corn kernels with these flavorful ingredients. The cool, creamy corn balances the hot chicken and peppers perfectly. Garnish with cilantro for a pretty pop of color.

9. Cilantro Lime Rice

Herby cilantro lime rice is a fresher take on Spanish rice. Start by cooking rice in broth and garlic. Then stir in chopped cilantro, lime zest and juice. The vibrant herb and citrus flavors liven up the rice, pairing wonderfully with zesty chicken fajitas. For extra flavor, use chicken broth instead of water. The rice’s mild flavor soaks up juices from the fajitas without overpowering them.

10. Roasted Veggies

Don’t forget the vegetables! Roasted zucchini, squash, peppers, onions, and tomatoes make tasty veggie sides for chicken fajitas. Toss vegetables in olive oil, cumin, chili powder, garlic, and lime juice. Roast at high heat until caramelized. Their blend of sweet and tangy flavors complements the fajitas perfectly. Add any veggies you have on hand for a nutritional boost.

Chicken fajitas have bold Mexican flavor that pairs well with so many sides. Refried beans, Spanish rice, guacamole, and pico de gallo are classic choices. But don’t be afraid to also try fresh veggie sides, herby rice, or sweet corn. With flavorful seasonings like chili powder, cumin, garlic, and lime juice tying everything together, you can’t go wrong with these tasty sides for your next chicken fajitas dinner.

A great side dish for fajitas often includes Mexican rice, refried beans, guacamole, and a fresh corn and black bean salad.