Description
This Cheesy Chicken Fajita Casserole is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish combining tender seasoned chicken breasts with colorful bell peppers and onions, topped with a melty cheese blend. Baked to perfection, it offers a delicious, comforting meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 ½ pounds (680 g) chicken breasts, skinless and boneless
- 2 tablespoons fajita seasoning
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Vegetables and Toppings
- 2 medium bell peppers, cut into strips
- 1 medium yellow onion, sliced
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- Fresh chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the casserole.
- Season Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and evenly coat them with 2 tablespoons of fajita seasoning. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over the chicken and spread the seasoning and oil thoroughly using your hands or a spoon.
- Add Vegetables: Arrange the sliced bell peppers and yellow onion on top of the seasoned chicken in the baking dish. Sprinkle a little extra fajita seasoning over the vegetables to enhance their flavor.
- Top with Cheese: Evenly spread 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend) over the chicken and vegetables, covering the surface completely for a cheesy finish.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish uncovered in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest briefly. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving hot.
Notes
- Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- You can use any combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese for best flavor.
- Feel free to add other fajita vegetables such as sliced jalapeños or mushrooms if desired.
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of fajita seasoning or add cayenne pepper.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.