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Cheesy Fajita Baked Chicken Recipe

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4.1 from 15 reviews

This Cheesy Fajita Baked Chicken recipe is a simple, one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. It features thinly sliced chicken breasts layered with a creamy blend of cream cheese, salsa, and fajita seasoning, topped with colorful bell peppers and melted shredded cheese. Baked to perfection, it’s a healthy, low-carb, budget-friendly dish that’s sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 45 thinly sliced chicken breasts (about 2 lbs)

Cheese Mixture

  • 8 oz softened cream cheese
  • 1/3 cup salsa
  • 1/2 (1 oz) packet fajita seasoning

Toppings

  • 2 large bell peppers, sliced
  • 12 cups shredded cheese (Mexican blend, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the chicken from sticking.
  2. Arrange the Chicken: Place the thinly sliced chicken breasts evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, salsa, and fajita seasoning packet. Mix until well blended and creamy.
  4. Layer the Mixture: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chicken breasts to ensure every piece is covered with flavor.
  5. Add Vegetables and Cheese: Top the coated chicken with the sliced bell peppers and then sprinkle your choice of shredded cheese on top. (For large, thick chicken breasts, add the cheese halfway through baking to avoid burning.)
  6. Bake: Place the baking dish uncovered on the center rack of your oven. Bake for 20 to 45 minutes, adjusting time based on the thickness of your chicken breasts, until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  7. Serve: Serve the cheesy fajita chicken on its own, with Spanish rice, cauliflower rice, or wrapped in tortillas for a complete meal.

Notes

  • For easier serving or if using tortillas, cut the chicken into bite-sized strips before baking. This will reduce the baking time.
  • Store-bought fajita seasoning packets often contain added sugar; making your own seasoning with chili powder, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and cumin can lower carb content.
  • Adding sliced onions with the bell peppers is a delicious option if your family enjoys them.
  • You can customize the shredded cheese by using pepper jack, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend, depending on your taste preferences.