When you’re craving a comforting yet flavorful meal, Cheesy Fajita Chicken Bake is a fantastic choice! I made this for dinner recently, and it was a crowd-pleaser. The combination of seasoned chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and gooey cheese creates a delicious dish that’s easy to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this hearty bake:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced)
1 bell pepper (sliced)
1 onion (sliced)
1 packet fajita seasoning (or homemade)
1 cup salsa
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, toss sliced chicken with olive oil and fajita seasoning until well coated.
Layer the Ingredients: In a baking dish, layer the seasoned chicken, sliced bell pepper, and onion. Pour salsa evenly over the top.
Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly.
Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: Approximately 320
Total Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 30g

Preparation Time

Total Time: 40 minutes
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

Serve hot with tortillas, rice, or a side salad.
Consider topping with avocado or sour cream for added creaminess.
Pair with tortilla chips for a fun crunch.

Additional Tips

Make It Ahead: You can prep the chicken and veggies a day in advance for quicker baking.
Flavor Variations: Add jalapeños for heat or corn for sweetness.
Cheese Options: Try different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a twist.
Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Recipe Variations

Low-Carb Version: Substitute chicken with cauliflower for a vegetarian option.
Southwestern Style: Add black beans and corn for extra texture and flavor.
Creamy Fajita Bake: Stir in cream cheese or sour cream before baking for a creamy texture.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing: This dish freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
Storage: Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to three days in an airtight container.

Special Equipment

Baking dish
Mixing bowl
Aluminum foil

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken?
A1: Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed before preparing.

Q2: How can I make this dish gluten-free?
A2: Check the fajita seasoning for gluten-free ingredients or make your own.

Q3: Can I add more vegetables?
A3: Absolutely! Consider adding zucchini or mushrooms for variety.

Q4: What if I don’t have salsa?
A4: You can use diced tomatoes or make a simple tomato sauce instead.

Q5: Can I grill the chicken instead?
A5: Yes, grill the chicken and then combine with the veggies and cheese for a smoky flavor.

This Cheesy Fajita Chicken Bake is the ultimate comforting meal that brings bold flavors to the table. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious recipe!