Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken Recipe: A Flavor-Packed Family Favorite

Looking for a dinner that’s hearty, flavorful, and comforting without being complicated? This Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken Recipe brings together juicy chicken breasts, vibrant bell peppers, fajita seasoning, and a golden layer of melty cheese in one irresistible dish. Whether you’re feeding a busy family on a weeknight or looking for a low-effort weekend dinner, this recipe satisfies every craving for savory, cheesy, Mexican-inspired comfort.

Let’s be honest—some meals are just guaranteed crowd-pleasers. This one hits all the right notes: zesty, creamy, colorful, and ready in under an hour. Plus, it all comes together in a single pan for easy cleanup. Get ready to bring this fajita-style baked chicken with cheese into your regular rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold, vibrant flavors from the fajita spices and sautéed vegetables.
• One-pan convenience saves you cleanup time.
• Ready in just 40–45 minutes, perfect for weeknights.
• Kid-approved: Cheesy, juicy, and not too spicy.
• Low-carb option without sacrificing flavor.
• Customizable: Use different veggies or proteins.
• Budget-friendly with pantry-staple ingredients.
• Freezer-friendly for make-ahead meals.

Ingredients

Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Use thighs for juicier results.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps seasoning stick and adds richness.
• 1 packet (1 oz) fajita seasoning – Or make your own with cumin, chili powder, paprika, garlic, and oregano.

Veggies

• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced – Adds sweetness and color.
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced – For that signature fajita flavor.
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced – Slightly sweet and sharp.

Additional

• 1½ cups shredded Mexican blend or cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully and adds creamy texture.
• Nonstick spray – Keeps everything from sticking.
• Fresh cilantro (optional) – For garnish and freshness.

Substitutions:

• Cheese: Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a kick.
• Vegetables: Add zucchini, mushrooms, or poblano peppers.
• Protein: Swap chicken for turkey cutlets or tofu for a vegetarian twist.

How to Make Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken

1. Preheat Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.

2. Season Chicken

Rub each chicken breast with olive oil, then coat evenly with fajita seasoning. Lay them side by side in the baking dish.

3. Add Veggies

Scatter the sliced bell peppers and onions over and around the chicken. This helps infuse the chicken with flavor as it bakes.

4. Bake Covered

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes. You’re looking for the chicken to reach about 155°F internally.

5. Add Cheese and Finish Baking

Uncover the dish, sprinkle cheese generously over everything, and return to the oven. Bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden.

6. Garnish and Serve

Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro if desired.

Pro Tips for Success

How do you make baked fajita chicken with cheese?

Use high-quality fajita seasoning and don’t skip the olive oil—it helps the chicken stay moist. Covering the dish during the first half of baking ensures juicy meat, and uncovering for the cheese gives you that golden finish.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving if overcooked.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes! Just ensure your fajita seasoning is sugar-free and skip serving with rice or tortillas.

Best Ways to Serve It

• With warm tortillas or over a bed of rice
• On top of a fresh green salad
• As a stuffing for fajita wraps or burritos
• Alongside black beans and corn salsa

👉 Try pairing with Mexican Street Corn Salad or Cilantro Lime Rice!

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)

• Calories: 340
• Protein: 36g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbs: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 720mg

Storage & Leftovers

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze portions for up to 3 months. Reheat in oven at 350°F until warmed through.
• Reheat: Microwave with a damp paper towel or reheat covered in the oven.

FAQs

What cheese works best for fajita chicken casserole?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend all work beautifully. Choose based on how spicy or creamy you prefer.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble everything and refrigerate. When ready, bake as directed.

What vegetables go well in a cheesy fajita chicken recipe?

Zucchini, mushrooms, poblano peppers, corn, or even spinach.

How long do I bake fajita chicken?

Bake covered for 25–30 minutes, then uncovered with cheese for 10 minutes.

Can I freeze baked fajita chicken?

Definitely. Let it cool, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the seasoning.
• Creamy Version: Add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese before baking.
• Tex-Mex Style: Include black beans, corn, and top with avocado after baking.
• Vegetarian Option: Use seasoned tofu or a mix of hearty veggies like mushrooms and zucchini.
• Low-Sodium: Make your own seasoning mix to control salt levels.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken Recipe is everything you want in a satisfying, easy-to-make meal. It’s packed with flavor, nourishing, family-friendly, and flexible for all kinds of dietary needs. Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or a weeknight rush, this recipe has your back.

Print