Introduction
Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep. The chicken is seasoned with fajita spices, then baked to perfection and topped with a generous amount of melted cheese. The combination of juicy chicken, spicy fajita seasoning, and gooey cheese is irresistible. Serve it with rice, in tortillas, or alongside your favorite veggies for a complete and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 packet (or 2 tablespoons) fajita seasoning mix
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 bell pepper (sliced)
1 onion (sliced)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend)
Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)
Lime wedges (for serving, optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Season the Chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, then sprinkle with fajita seasoning, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the spices.
Prepare the Vegetables: In a separate bowl, toss the sliced bell pepper and onion with a little olive oil and some salt and pepper.
Bake the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish. Arrange the bell peppers and onions around the chicken. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is fully cooked.
Add Cheese: Remove the dish from the oven. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the chicken breasts and return the dish to the oven. Bake for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges if desired. Serve the cheesy baked fajita chicken with your choice of sides, such as rice, tortillas, or a salad.
Description
This Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken is a perfect balance of bold fajita spices and the richness of melted cheese. The juicy chicken breasts are baked to perfection with vibrant bell peppers and onions, creating a colorful, satisfying meal. Topped with cheddar cheese, it adds a creamy, gooey texture that makes every bite mouthwatering. This dish is simple yet flavorful, perfect for those who love Tex-Mex-inspired flavors.
Tips
Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to add some jalapeños to the mix or sprinkle red pepper flakes over the chicken before baking.
Even Cooking: If the chicken breasts are very thick, consider slicing them in half horizontally to ensure they cook evenly and more quickly.
Cheese Variety: While cheddar works great, you can use Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a Mexican cheese blend for added flavor.
Make Ahead: This dish can be prepped ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply cover the dish with plastic wrap and bake when ready.
Toppings: Add a dollop of sour cream, guacamole, or salsa to elevate the dish even more.
Variations
Chicken Thighs: For a juicier alternative, use bone-in, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. They tend to be more flavorful and tender.
Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and make fajita-style veggies with bell peppers, onions, zucchini, and mushrooms. Add cheese for a vegetarian delight.
Wrap It Up: After baking, slice the chicken and veggies and wrap them in tortillas with some additional cheese, salsa, and sour cream for fajita wraps.
Add Beans: For extra protein and fiber, add black beans or pinto beans to the dish before baking.
Corrections
Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to avoid undercooking. If needed, check the chicken with a meat thermometer.
If you prefer your vegetables to be softer, you can add them to the oven earlier in the cooking process (about 15 minutes before the chicken is done) so they bake along with the chicken.
Enjoy
Now that your Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken is ready, it’s time to enjoy! With its savory fajita seasoning and gooey melted cheese, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether served with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad, this meal is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings for something delicious and comforting. Enjoy!