Description
Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken
Ingredients:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 packet fajita seasoning
1 cup sliced bell peppers
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup pepper jack cheese
Preparation:
Toss chicken in olive oil and fajita seasoning.
Place bell peppers in a skillet, add chicken, and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes.
Add pepper jack cheese, broil for 3-5 minutes, and serve hot.
Description:
Spice up your dinner game with this Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken! Bold flavors, gooey cheese, and a colorful medley of peppers make this dish unforgettable.
#FajitaSkilletDream
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken every time. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure the seasoning sticks. In a large bowl, combine the chicken breasts, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and the entire packet of fajita seasoning. Use your hands to massage the seasoning and oil all over the chicken until evenly coated. Next, slice one large onion and 2-3 bell peppers in various colors into thin strips. Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the peppers and onions for 5-7 minutes until they just begin to soften. Push the vegetables to the edges of the skillet. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the center. Transfer the entire skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove the skillet carefully. Top each chicken breast generously with shredded pepper jack cheese. Switch your oven to broil and return the skillet to the oven for 3-5 minutes, watching closely until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
Serving Suggestions
This flavorful dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it directly from the skillet for a rustic, family-style presentation. For a complete meal, consider these options: a bed of cilantro-lime rice or cauliflower rice to soak up the juices, warm flour or corn tortillas on the side, a fresh avocado salad or a dollop of cool sour cream and guacamole to balance the spice, and a side of black beans or a simple green salad.
How-to Summary
In short: Season chicken with oil and fajita mix. Sauté peppers and onions in an oven-safe skillet. Add chicken to the skillet and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes. Top with cheese and broil for 3-5 minutes until melted and golden. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely. Bone-in, skin-on thighs will add more flavor and require a slightly longer baking time (about 30-35 minutes). Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
What can I use if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet? Simply sauté the vegetables in a regular pan, then transfer everything to a greased baking dish before placing it in the oven.
How can I make this dish less spicy? Substitute the pepper jack cheese for a milder Monterey Jack or mozzarella. You can also use only half the fajita seasoning packet or choose a “mild” variety.
Can I prepare this ahead of time? Yes. You can season the chicken and chop the vegetables up to a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake when ready.
How should I store and reheat leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat or in the microwave to prevent the chicken from drying out.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best results: Do not overcrowd the skillet when sautéing the vegetables, as they will steam instead of caramelize. Do not skip patting the chicken dry, or the seasoning won’t adhere properly. Do not forget to preheat your oven, as this ensures even cooking. Most importantly, do not walk away during the broiling step—the cheese can go from perfectly melted to burnt very quickly.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken is a guaranteed weeknight winner that delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss. It combines juicy, seasoned chicken, tender sweet peppers, and irresistibly gooey cheese in one simple skillet. By following this enhanced guide and tips, you can easily master this crowd-pleasing dish and customize it to your taste. It’s the perfect way to bring restaurant-quality fajita excitement right to your dinner table.
