Cheesy Baked Chicken Fajitas are a delightful twist on classic fajitas, combining juicy chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and onions in a cheesy, flavorful bake. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, as it’s easy to throw together and bake in a single dish. Plus, the oven does all the work, filling your kitchen with mouth-watering aromas while you wait. Serve these cheesy fajitas with tortillas, over rice, or on a salad for a delicious meal that’s adaptable to any occasion. It’s a quick, tasty dinner option that packs both flavor and nutrition in each bite.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Cheesy Baked Chicken Fajitas:

• 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced – Tender and lean protein for the dish.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Adds a hint of richness and prevents sticking.
• 2 bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), sliced – Colorful peppers for sweetness and crunch.
• 1 large onion, sliced – Adds depth and savory flavor.
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained – For a touch of acidity and spice.
• 1 packet fajita seasoning mix – The primary flavor boost, with a mix of spices.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the overall flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika – Adds warmth and a mild smokiness.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Melty and sharp, pairs perfectly with fajita flavors.
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese – Mild, creamy, and complements the cheddar.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional) – For garnish and a fresh pop of color.
• 1/4 cup sour cream (optional for topping) – Adds creaminess and tang.

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold all the ingredients (an 8×12 or 9×13 dish works well).

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables

1. Thinly slice the chicken breast and place it in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and drained diced tomatoes with green chilies to the bowl with the chicken.

Step 3: Season the Mixture

1. Sprinkle the fajita seasoning mix over the chicken and vegetables, followed by the garlic powder and paprika.
2. Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture and toss everything together until well coated with the spices and oil. Make sure all pieces are evenly seasoned.

Step 4: Arrange in the Baking Dish

1. Spread the seasoned chicken and vegetable mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
2. Cover the baking dish with foil to prevent the chicken and vegetables from drying out and place it in the preheated oven.

Step 5: Bake

1. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
2. Remove the foil from the dish, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly over the top.

Step 6: Melt the Cheese

1. Return the dish to the oven (uncovered) for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
2. For a golden cheese topping, broil on high for 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh chopped cilantro, if desired.
2. Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream on each serving and warm tortillas on the side.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving, based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 300
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 5g
• Sodium: 500mg

Note: Nutrition may vary based on specific brands and portions used.

FAQs:

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes! Chicken thighs work well in this recipe, adding extra juiciness. Ensure they are sliced thin for even cooking.

2. Can I substitute the cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to use other melting cheeses like Colby, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a spicy kick.

3. Is this dish spicy?
The level of spice depends on the fajita seasoning and diced tomatoes with green chilies. For a milder version, use regular diced tomatoes without chilies.

4. Can I add more vegetables?
Of course! Mushrooms, zucchini, or corn would be great additions and add even more texture and flavor.

5. How can I serve these fajitas?
Serve them in tortillas, over rice, or on a salad for a complete meal. Garnishes like guacamole, salsa, or extra sour cream make delicious additions.

Tips for Making the Perfect Cheesy Baked Chicken Fajitas:

1. Cut Evenly: For even cooking, make sure the chicken and vegetables are sliced to similar thickness.
2. Don’t Skip the Oil: Adding a bit of oil helps to keep everything moist and flavorful.
3. Use Fresh Cheeses: For the best melting texture, shred the cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded cheese.
4. Broil for Extra Flavor: Broiling at the end gives the cheese a bubbly, golden brown finish, making it even more appetizing.
5. Customize the Seasoning: If you like bolder flavors, add extra chili powder, cumin, or even a pinch of cayenne to the seasoning mix.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors often improve the next day as they meld together.

Freezing: You can freeze the baked chicken fajitas for up to 2 months. Let them cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, though the cheese may not be as melty as when freshly baked.

Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Add an extra 5 minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Conclusion:

Cheesy Baked Chicken Fajitas are a fantastic way to bring bold Tex-Mex flavors to your table with minimal effort. With juicy chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a layer of gooey cheese, this dish is a satisfying meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, it’s easy to prepare, customizable, and sure to please. Try this recipe the next time you’re craving a delicious, fuss-free fajita experience – it’ll quickly become a regular in your meal rotation!