by: AdminPosted on:

Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken

Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken is a delicious, easy-to-make meal that brings the flavors of fajitas into a comforting baked dish. Juicy chicken breasts are topped with sautéed peppers, onions, and a generous layer of cheese for a hearty, flavorful dinner. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
  • 1 green bell pepper (sliced)
  • 1 yellow bell pepper (sliced)
  • 1 medium onion (sliced)
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Season the Chicken:

  • In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
  • Rub the seasoning mix evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.

3. Sear the Chicken:

  • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown but not fully cooked through (they’ll finish in the oven). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

4. Cook the Vegetables:

  • In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed and sauté the sliced peppers and onions for 5-6 minutes until softened and slightly charred.
  • Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Remove the skillet from heat.

5. Assemble the Dish:

  • Place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet on top of the sautéed peppers and onions.
  • Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over each chicken breast.

6. Bake:

  • Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Garnish and Serve:

  • Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.
  • Serve the cheesy baked fajita chicken with your favorite sides like rice, tortillas, or a simple green salad.

This Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken is packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and perfect for a weeknight dinner. The combination of juicy chicken, melted cheese, and flavorful peppers makes it a crowd-pleaser every time!