Save to Pinterest Shrimp and chickpea sheet pan fajitas make weeknight dinners vibrant and simple. This recipe combines tender shrimp and hearty chickpeas roasted with sweet bell peppers and onions, all coated in a zesty, smoky marinade. Everything cooks together on a single pan for easy prep and cleanup, and tucking the filling into warm tortillas turns every bite into a fiesta.
When I discovered how the roasted chickpeas soak up all the spices, these fajitas instantly became a staple at our house. Sheet pan meals always feel like a weeknight win, and the whole family dives in as soon as the tray hits the table.
Ingredients
- Large raw shrimp peeled and deveined: Fresh shrimp gives the best texture and flavor Choose firm shrimp that smells clean and slightly sweet
- Canned chickpeas drained and rinsed: They add protein and a hearty bite Go for low sodium if possible and check for smooth skins
- Red and yellow bell peppers sliced: Bright color and natural sweetness Pick firm shiny peppers with tight skin for best crunch
- Red onion sliced: Adds sweetness and depth to the roasted mix Look for onions that feel heavy and have papery skin
- Olive oil: Helps coat everything for even roasting Cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil gives added richness
- Chili powder and smoked paprika: Deliver warmth and smokiness Opt for a high-quality chili powder blend and true Spanish smoked paprika
- Ground cumin garlic powder and onion powder: Layer on flavor and savory notes For freshest taste buy spices whole and grind as needed
- Sea salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings that let the fresh ingredients shine Use flaky sea salt for extra crunch if you like
- Juice of fresh lime: Brings bright acidity Look for limes that feel heavy and give slightly when pressed
- Small flour or corn tortillas warmed: Make a delicious wrap Go with soft flour for pliability or choose certified gluten free corn for dietary needs
- Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish: These freshen and brighten every serving Snip cilantro just before serving for peak flavor
- Optional toppings Avocado salsa or dairy free sour cream: Let everyone add their favorites Ripe avocados with pebbly skin are perfect for slicing
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 220 degrees Celsius or 425 degrees Fahrenheit and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper This high heat is key for caramelizing the vegetables and cooking shrimp quickly
- Make the Marinade:
- In a large mixing bowl whisk together olive oil chili powder smoked paprika cumin garlic powder onion powder sea salt black pepper and fresh lime juice Mix until emulsified and aromatic so every bite will pop with flavor
- Toss the Proteins and Veggies:
- Add the shrimp chickpeas sliced bell peppers and red onion to the bowl Make sure to toss thoroughly so everything is evenly coated with the marinade The vibrant color is a sign of good coverage
- Spread on the Baking Sheet:
- Turn out the mixture onto the prepared tray Arrange it in a single even layer so nothing steams and every piece has a chance to roast and caramelize For best results avoid crowding
- Roast to Perfection:
- Place the tray in the hot oven and roast for 10 minutes Stir gently then continue roasting for another 7 to 10 minutes until the shrimp are pink and opaque and the vegetables are tender and lightly charred Watch closely at the end to prevent overcooking
- Warm the Tortillas:
- While the filling finishes heating gently warm your tortillas on a skillet or directly over a low flame stacked and wrapped in a clean towel to keep them soft
- Assemble and Serve:
- Pile the roasted shrimp chickpeas and veggies into warm tortillas Top with chopped cilantro a squeeze of lime and any extras you love Serve everything family style for customization at the table
Save to Pinterest This recipe is all about big flavors for minimal effort My kids love the colorful peppers and I always sneak a few freshly roasted chickpeas as soon as the pan comes out of the oven It reminds me of weeknights when my whole family gathers at the kitchen counter assembling their own fajitas
Storage Tips
After the meal let leftovers cool then store the shrimp veggie mixture in an airtight container in the fridge It stays fresh for up to three days Reheat gently so the shrimp stays tender I like to rewarm it in a skillet for the best texture Avoid microwaving tortillas as they can get tough instead wrap them in a damp towel and steam for a few seconds
Ingredient Swaps and Substitutions
Span out the flavor or work with what you have in your pantry You can swap shrimp for chicken thighs or tofu and use any mix of bell peppers Add zucchini or sliced mushrooms for extra vegetables Smoked paprika is lovely here but if needed use regular paprika plus a pinch of chipotle powder
Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions
Set out bowls of chunky guacamole or fresh pico de gallo for dipping I sometimes add pickled jalapenos for a tangy kick A simple side of seasoned black beans rounds out the meal nicely For a crowd make a double batch on two trays and let everyone build their own fajitas buffet style
Fajitas Across Cultures
Fajitas have their roots in Tex Mex tradition originally made with grilled meats and onions sizzled on cast iron This sheet pan version brings the same spirit but with the convenience of oven roasting Eating with your hands wrapped in a tortilla feels festive no matter the day
Save to Pinterest One pan plus easy prep ensures this colorful dish will save your night again and again
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I make this with chicken instead of shrimp?
Yes, sliced chicken breast is a great substitute for shrimp and roasts well alongside chickpeas and vegetables.
- → How do I keep the shrimp tender?
Roast just until shrimp turn opaque, about 17–20 minutes total. Overcooking can make them rubbery.
- → What tortillas work best for this dish?
Both small flour or corn tortillas pair well. Use certified gluten-free corn tortillas if needed.
- → Are there vegan options for this meal?
Omit the shrimp and add extra chickpeas or substitute with sliced mushrooms or tofu for a plant-based version.
- → What toppings complement these fajitas?
Great options include fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, lime wedges, salsa, pico de gallo, or dairy-free sour cream.
- → Can this dish be made in advance?
The filling can be roasted hours ahead; gently reheat and serve with fresh garnishes and warmed tortillas.