Introduction

When I first made this Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken for my family, I was a bit hesitant. Would the combination of cream cheese, salsa, and fajita seasoning really come together to create the kind of comforting, flavorful meal I envisioned? Well, I didn’t need to worry. The dish was an instant hit, with my family asking for seconds. The creamy, cheesy topping combined with the tender chicken and colorful bell peppers was the perfect balance of flavors. I loved how simple it was to prepare, yet it tasted like something I’d spent hours crafting. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or entertaining guests, this recipe never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken

Deliciously Creamy: The cream cheese and salsa mixture creates a rich, creamy layer that perfectly complements the tender chicken.
Full of Flavor: The fajita seasoning, paired with the bell peppers and cheese, adds a wonderful depth of flavor without being overpowering.
Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, this dish is ready in under an hour—perfect for busy nights.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the combination of cheesy goodness and savory chicken.
Customizable: You can easily add extras like onions, jalapeños, or other veggies to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

4-5 thinly sliced chicken breasts (about 2 lbs)
8 oz softened cream cheese
1/3 cup salsa
1/2 (1 oz) packet of fajita seasoning
2 large bell peppers, sliced
1-2 cups shredded cheese (Mexican blend or cheddar)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or a small amount of olive oil.

Step 2: Arrange the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Make sure they are spread out in a single layer for even cooking.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, salsa, and fajita seasoning.
Stir well until the mixture is smooth and all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, ensuring each piece is fully covered.

Step 5: Add the Bell Peppers

Arrange the sliced bell peppers on top of the cream cheese mixture. You can use any color of bell pepper, but a mix of red, green, and yellow peppers adds a vibrant pop to the dish.

Step 6: Add the Shredded Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the bell peppers and cream cheese mixture.
If you’re using large or thick chicken breasts, you might want to add the cheese halfway through the cooking time to prevent it from burning.

Step 7: Bake the Dish

Bake the casserole, uncovered, in the center rack of the preheated oven for 20-45 minutes.
The cooking time will vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken breasts. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 8: Serve

Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serve the cheesy baked fajita chicken on its own or alongside your favorite sides like Spanish rice, cauliflower rice, or warm tortillas.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: Approximately 400-450 calories (based on serving size and cheese used)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30-45 minutes
Total Time: 40-55 minutes

How to Serve

This cheesy baked fajita chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with various sides. Here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:

Serve with Rice: Spanish rice, cauliflower rice, or cilantro-lime rice are all excellent options to complement the creamy, cheesy chicken.
Add Tortillas: Warm tortillas can be used to scoop up the chicken or serve as a side for wrapping the chicken.
Side Salad: A fresh salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the dish.
Guacamole and Salsa: Add some homemade guacamole or a tangy salsa for extra flavor.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like zucchini, squash, or asparagus would pair beautifully with this dish for added texture and nutrients.

Additional Tips

Use Thinly Sliced Chicken: Thinly sliced chicken breasts cook faster and are more tender, so they’re perfect for this recipe.
Make it Spicy: If you like spice, consider adding a chopped jalapeño to the cream cheese mixture or use spicy salsa.
Make It Ahead: You can prep the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just be sure to bake it within 24 hours for the best results.
Add More Veggies: If you want to sneak in some more veggies, add onions, mushrooms, or even zucchini to the bell peppers.
Check Chicken Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken has reached 165°F internally for safe consumption.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. If using frozen, the baking time may increase.

2. What if I don’t have fajita seasoning?
You can easily make your own fajita seasoning with a mix of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work just as well and will add more flavor and juiciness to the dish.

4. Is this recipe low-carb?
This dish is fairly low-carb, especially if you serve it with a low-carb side like cauliflower rice or enjoy it on its own.

5. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute the shredded cheese with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or any other cheese you prefer.

6. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

7. Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

8. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free cream cheese and a dairy-free shredded cheese blend to make this recipe dairy-free.

9. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers for up to 2-3 months. Reheat in the oven until fully warmed.

10. Can I add other toppings to the casserole?
Yes, you can top it with sour cream, guacamole, or fresh cilantro for added flavor.

Conclusion

Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy goodness and savory chicken, making it a crowd-pleaser for all occasions. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe delivers on flavor and simplicity. The rich cream cheese salsa topping and melted cheese create a comforting, satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Add your own twist by incorporating more veggies, spicing it up, or pairing it with your favorite sides, and you’ll have a new favorite dish in no time!