Description
This Cheesy Chicken Fajita Casserole is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines tender seasoned chicken breasts, sautéed bell peppers, and onions topped with melted cheese. Baked to perfection, it’s a comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 ½ pounds (680 g) chicken breasts, skinless and boneless
- 2 tablespoons fajita seasoning
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Vegetables
- 2 medium bell peppers, cut into strips
- 1 medium yellow onion, sliced
Toppings
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- Fresh chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to fully preheat before beginning the recipe.
- Season the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish. Sprinkle the fajita seasoning over them, then drizzle with vegetable oil. Use your hands or a spoon to evenly coat all sides of the chicken with the seasoning and oil.
- Add vegetables: Arrange the sliced bell peppers and onions on top of the seasoned chicken in the baking dish. Lightly sprinkle a little more fajita seasoning over the vegetables to enhance their flavor.
- Top with cheese: Evenly spread the shredded cheese over the chicken and vegetables, covering the entire surface to create a rich and cheesy topping.
- Bake the casserole: Place the baking dish uncovered into the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Serve and garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro to add a fresh, herbaceous note before serving hot.
Notes
- You can use any combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese or your favorite melting cheese blend.
- To check chicken doneness, use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) internally for safety.
- For added spice, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the peppers and onions.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- For a lower-fat option, reduce cheese quantity or use a low-fat cheese alternative.
