Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken Recipe
This Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or meal prep. It combines tender chicken breasts with classic fajita vegetables, fajita seasoning, and lots of gooey cheese for a mouthwatering, Tex-Mex-inspired meal.
Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
- Chicken breasts: 4 medium-sized (boneless, skinless)
- Bell peppers: 3 (1 red, 1 yellow, 1 green; sliced thinly)
- Onion: 1 large (sliced thinly)
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Fajita seasoning: 2 tablespoons (store-bought or homemade)
- Shredded cheese: 2 cups (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
- Salt and pepper: To taste
- Fresh cilantro: For garnish (optional)
Optional Additions
- Jalapeños: Sliced, for a spicy kick
- Lime juice: Freshly squeezed over the top before serving
- Sour cream or guacamole: For serving
- Tortillas or rice: As a side dish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season Chicken:
- Rub the chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, fajita seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- Prepare Vegetables:
- Toss the sliced bell peppers and onion with the remaining olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a greased baking dish.
- Spread the seasoned vegetables evenly around and on top of the chicken.
- Bake:
- Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Add Cheese:
- Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the chicken and vegetables.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired, and serve hot with rice, tortillas, or your favorite toppings.
Description
This Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken combines the smoky, zesty flavors of fajitas with a creamy, cheesy twist. The tender chicken and colorful, sweet bell peppers pair perfectly, creating a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Tips for Success
- Pound Chicken Evenly: If your chicken breasts are thick, pound them to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly.
- Use Fresh Cheese: For the best melt, shred your cheese from a block instead of using pre-shredded cheese.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in juices.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~350
- Protein: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
Enjoy this comforting, cheesy take on fajitas for a satisfying meal that everyone will love! Let me know if you’d like help with a homemade fajita seasoning recipe or side dish ideas. 🌮