Easy Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken Recipe for Flavorful Fiesta Nights

My latest culinary adventure with this cheesy baked fajita chicken has totally revolutionized weeknight dinners for our household.

Colorful bell peppers and zesty seasonings create a mouthwatering combination that makes everyone rush to the table.

Tender chicken breasts get coated in a magical blend of spices that sing with flavor.

Melted cheese adds an irresistible layer of comfort that takes this dish from simple to spectacular.

Each bite promises a perfect balance of crispy edges and juicy meat that satisfies deep hunger.

Quick prep and minimal cleanup mean you can enjoy a restaurant-worthy meal without the stress of complicated cooking.

Bring this crowd-pleaser to your kitchen and watch how quickly plates get cleaned.

Why Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken Deserves a Spot on Your Menu

• Supercharge Weeknight Dinners: Whip up a mouthwatering meal with minimal effort and maximum flavor, perfect for busy households craving delicious comfort food.
• Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients, adjust spice levels, and play with toppings to create a personalized dish that suits every family member's taste preferences.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup and simple preparation make this recipe a stress-free cooking experience that transforms ordinary chicken into an extraordinary meal.
• Nutrition Meets Deliciousness: Packed with protein, colorful bell peppers, and creamy cheese, this dish offers a balanced and satisfying dinner that keeps everyone happy and well-fed.

Baked Fajita Chicken (Cheesy) Ingredients

• Chicken Breasts: Lean protein base for the fajita dish.
• Cream Cheese: Creamy base for the sauce mixture.
• Salsa: Adds zesty flavor and moisture to the dish.
• Fajita Seasoning: Provides classic Mexican-inspired spice blend.

• Bell Peppers: Colorful and sweet vegetable topping.

• Shredded Cheese: Melty topping that adds extra richness.

• Cilantro, Green Onions, Sour Cream: Fresh finishing touches for added flavor and presentation.

• Cooking Spray or Oil: Prevents sticking and helps with even cooking.

Baked Fajita Chicken Instructions

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F and grab a 9×13-inch baking dish. Give the dish a quick spray with cooking oil to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Create the Flavor Base

• Softened cream cheese
• Tangy salsa
• Fajita seasoning

Whisk these ingredients until they form a smooth, creamy mixture that will make your taste buds dance.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken Canvas

Lay out chicken breasts in a single layer across the prepared baking dish. If the chicken is thick, consider slicing it thinner to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.

Step 4: Spread the Deliciousness

Generously coat the chicken with the cream cheese mixture, making sure every inch is covered. This will create a mouthwatering sauce that infuses the chicken with incredible flavor.

Step 5: Add Colorful Toppings

• Vibrant bell peppers
• Shredded cheese

Pro tip: If your chicken is particularly thick, add the cheese halfway through cooking to prevent burning.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 20-45 minutes, depending on chicken thickness. The dish is ready when the chicken reaches 165°F internally and the cheese turns golden and bubbly.

Step 7: Final Touches and Serving

• Fresh cilantro
• Chopped green onions
• A dollop of sour cream (optional)

Serve with Spanish rice, cauliflower rice, or wrap in warm tortillas for a complete meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!

Tips for Nailing That Cheesy Fajita Chicken Dinner

• Slice Chicken Uniformly: Cut chicken breasts into even, thin slices to ensure consistent cooking and prevent dry or undercooked sections.
• Swap Cream Cheese Wisely: Use low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt for a lighter version that maintains creamy texture and tangy flavor.
• Choose Fresh Peppers: Select crisp, bright-colored bell peppers to add vibrant flavor and maximize nutritional value in the dish.
• Control Cheese Melting: Sprinkle cheese in the last 10-15 minutes of baking to prevent burning and achieve perfect golden, bubbly topping.
• Temperature Check Matters: Always use a meat thermometer to confirm chicken reaches 165°F, guaranteeing safe and juicy results every time.

Keeping Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken Fresh

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Cool the dish completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Wrap tightly in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until thoroughly warmed to 165°F.
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Transfer to a baking dish, cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes, removing foil in the last 5 minutes to crisp the cheese topping.

Sides That Fit Baked Fajita Chicken

• Pair with Zesty Margarita: Blend tequila, lime juice, and triple sec to complement the spicy fajita flavors and cut through the creamy cheese.
• Serve with Cilantro Lime Rice: Create a bright, tangy side dish that echoes the salsa and fajita seasoning in the main recipe, adding freshness to the cheesy chicken.
• Match with Crisp Mexican Slaw: Prepare a light, crunchy coleslaw with lime and jalapeño to balance the rich, creamy texture of the baked chicken and provide a refreshing contrast.
• Enhance with Cool Avocado Crema: Whip up a smooth avocado sauce to drizzle over the dish, adding a creamy, cooling element that harmonizes with the spicy and cheesy components.

Fajita Chicken Dinner Styles

• Low-Carb Chicken Fiesta: Replace bell peppers with zucchini slices and use cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice for a keto-friendly version.
• Dairy-Free Friendly: Swap cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of shredded cheese for lactose-intolerant individuals.
• Spicy Southwest Upgrade: Add diced jalapeños, increase fajita seasoning, and mix in chipotle peppers for an extra kick of heat and complex flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or black beans, maintaining the same creamy sauce and vegetable layers for a plant-based alternative.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs or tenders. Just adjust cooking time based on the cut’s thickness and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

• Is this recipe spicy?

The spice level depends on the salsa and fajita seasoning you choose. Use mild salsa and seasoning for a less spicy version, or hot varieties for more kick.

• How can I make this dish healthier?

Opt for low-fat cream cheese, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and choose a low-sodium fajita seasoning. Load up on extra bell peppers for more nutrients.

• Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Assemble the dish and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the refrigerator.

Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken Recipe

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4.7 from 33 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 5 1x

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Description

Savor zesty cheesy baked fajita chicken that delivers a fiesta of Mexican-inspired flavors in one spectacular dish. Peppers, onions, and juicy chicken meld together with melted cheese, creating a mouthwatering meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Proteins:

• 4–5 chicken breasts, thinly sliced (about 2 pounds / 907 grams)

Dairy Components:

• 8 ounces (227 grams) cream cheese, softened
• 1–2 cups shredded cheese (Mexican blend or cheddar)

Vegetables and Seasonings:

• 2 large bell peppers, sliced (mixed colors)
• 1/3 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot)
• 1/2 packet fajita seasoning (about 1 ounce / 28 grams)

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh cilantro
• Sliced green onions
• Sour cream
• Guacamole

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven environment by heating to 375°F (190°C) and coating a 9×13-inch baking dish with a light layer of cooking spray or oil.
2. Arrange chicken breasts in a uniform, single layer across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, ensuring even coverage.
3. Create a creamy flavor base by blending softened cream cheese with salsa and fajita seasoning in a mixing bowl until the mixture achieves a smooth, consistent texture.
4. Distribute the cream cheese mixture carefully and evenly over the chicken, making sure to cover the entire surface with a uniform layer.
5. Strategically place sliced bell peppers across the top of the cream cheese-covered chicken, creating a colorful vegetable layer.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the peppers, ensuring complete coverage for maximum flavor and melting potential.
7. Position the baking dish on the center oven rack and cook uncovered for 20-45 minutes, monitoring the chicken’s internal temperature until it reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Watch for visual cues of doneness, including melted, bubbly cheese and fully cooked chicken.
9. Remove from the oven and allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes, enabling flavors to settle and temperatures to equalize.
10. Enhance the presentation by garnishing with fresh cilantro, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream.
11. Serve independently or pair with Spanish rice, cauliflower rice, or warm tortillas for a complete and satisfying meal.

Notes

• Slice chicken breasts evenly to ensure uniform cooking and prevent dry or undercooked sections.
• Choose a salsa with robust flavors that complement the fajita seasoning for maximum taste depth.
• Sprinkle cheese in layers or midway through baking to achieve perfect golden-brown, bubbling coverage without burning.
• Swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt to reduce fat, use dairy-free cheese alternatives for lactose-intolerant diets, or replace chicken with tofu for vegetarian options.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5
• Calories: 211
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 530 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 5 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 22 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg