Short Description

Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken is a mouthwatering, flavor-packed dish that combines the bold spices of fajitas with juicy chicken breasts and a generous layer of melted cheese. This easy, oven-baked recipe brings all the delicious flavors of a sizzling fajita skillet without the hassle, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. Serve it with rice, tortillas, or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make – Everything is baked in one dish, requiring minimal effort and cleanup.
Packed with Flavor – A bold blend of fajita seasoning infuses the chicken with a smoky, spicy taste.
Cheesy Goodness – A generous layer of melted cheese makes this dish incredibly indulgent.
Healthy & Nutritious – Lean chicken breasts provide protein, while bell peppers and onions add vitamins and fiber.
Versatile – Serve it as is, with rice, in a tortilla, or on a salad.

Ingredients

chicken breasts
bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)
onion
shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
olive oil
fajita seasoning
garlic powder
onion powder
chili powder
cumin
paprika
salt
pepper
lime juice
cilantro (for garnish)

Directions

Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Chicken – Place the chicken breasts in a greased baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
Season the Chicken – In a small bowl, mix fajita seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning mixture over the chicken breasts evenly.
Add the Vegetables – Slice the bell peppers and onions into thin strips and spread them around the chicken in the baking dish.
Bake the Chicken – Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is nearly cooked through.
Add the Cheese – Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the chicken, and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve – Drizzle with lime juice, sprinkle with fresh cilantro, and serve hot.

Variations

Spicy Kick – Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Dairy-Free – Use dairy-free cheese alternatives or omit cheese altogether.
Different Proteins – Swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or sliced steak.
Low-Carb Option – Serve with cauliflower rice instead of regular rice or tortillas.
Creamy Twist – Add a dollop of sour cream or avocado slices before serving.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the chicken and veggies ahead and store them in the fridge until ready to bake.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend work best for this dish.

Can I use pre-made fajita seasoning?

Absolutely! Store-bought seasoning works fine if you’re short on time.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free fajita seasoning.

Can I cook this in a skillet instead?

Yes, you can cook it on the stovetop over medium heat until the chicken is cooked through, then add cheese and cover until melted.

What sides go well with this dish?

Rice, tortillas, black beans, or a fresh salad are great options.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness but may require a slightly longer cooking time.

How do I make this recipe keto-friendly?

Skip the onions and serve with cauliflower rice or low-carb tortillas.

Can I make this in an air fryer?

Yes! Cook at 375°F for about 20 minutes, then add cheese and cook for another 5 minutes.

Conclusion

Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken is an easy, flavorful, and satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights. With its bold fajita spices, juicy chicken, and gooey melted cheese, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you serve it with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad, this dish is a delicious and versatile addition to your meal rotation. Try it today and enjoy a hassle-free, homemade Mexican-inspired meal!

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