Name: Easy Baked Chicken Fajitas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts ((about 3-4 chicken breasts)); 1 tbsp taco or fajita seasoning ((try making your own for a gluten-free option)); 1.5 sweet bell peppers ((sliced; mix and match colors like green, red, orange, and yellow)); 1 medium sweet yellow onion ((sliced)); 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese ((shredded)); 1 tbsp chopped cilantro ((for garnish, optional))

Who doesn’t love a good fajita? The vibrant colors and irresistible flavors make them a staple at any gathering. But what if I told you that you could whip up a delicious tray of Easy Baked Chicken Fajitas with minimal effort? This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of baking time, you’ll have mouthwatering fajitas that are sure to please everyone at the table. Let’s dive into the details of this easy-to-make dish that packs a flavorful punch!

Why Cooks Rave About It

Easy Baked Chicken Fajitas are a game-changer for anyone who loves quick, flavorful meals. Here are just a few reasons why this recipe is a favorite:

– **Simplicity**: With just a few ingredients, this dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
– **Flavorful**: The homemade fajita seasoning brings a burst of flavor that elevates the chicken and vegetables.
– **Versatile**: You can customize the veggies to your liking, making it easy to cater to different tastes or dietary preferences.
– **One-pan meal**: Minimal clean-up is required since everything bakes together on a single sheet pan.

Ingredients at a Glance

To create your Easy Baked Chicken Fajitas, you will need the following ingredients:

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3-4 chicken breasts)
1 tbsp taco or fajita seasoning (try making your own for a gluten-free option)
1 1/2 sweet bell peppers, sliced (mix and match colors like green, red, orange, and yellow)
1 medium sweet yellow onion, sliced
8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 tbsp chopped cilantro for garnish, optional

Prep & Cook Tools

Before you get started, gather the following tools to make your cooking experience seamless:

Sheet Pan: A large sheet pan will help evenly cook the chicken and vegetables.
Cutting Board and Knife: For slicing the bell peppers and onion.
Mixing Bowl: To combine the chicken with the seasoning.
Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is cooked to perfection.

Cooking Easy Baked Chicken Fajitas: The Process

Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps for your Easy Baked Chicken Fajitas.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your fajitas bake evenly and come out perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Sprinkle the taco or fajita seasoning evenly over the chicken. Make sure to coat it well for full flavor. If you’re using homemade seasoning, check out this great recipe for an easy mix.

Step 3: Slice the Veggies

While the chicken is absorbing the flavors, slice your sweet bell peppers and onion. Aim for uniform slices to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Arrange on the Sheet Pan

Spread the seasoned chicken breasts in the center of the sheet pan. Surround the chicken with the sliced bell peppers and onions. This allows the juices from the chicken to flavor the vegetables as they cook.

Step 5: Bake

Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you want to add cheese, sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese on top during the last 5 minutes of baking.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the sheet pan from the oven. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired. Serve with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.

Make It Year-Round

Easy Baked Chicken Fajitas are not just for a summer cookout! Here are some ideas to make this dish a year-round favorite:

Use seasonal vegetables like zucchini or corn in the fall.
Try swapping chicken for shrimp or beef for a different twist.
Pair with a fresh salad in the spring to lighten things up.
Enjoy them with cozy sides like rice or beans in the winter.

Mistakes Even Pros Make

Even seasoned cooks can stumble when making Easy Baked Chicken Fajitas. Here are a few common pitfalls to avoid:

Using cold chicken straight from the fridge can lead to uneven cooking.
Not seasoning the chicken well enough can result in bland fajitas.
Overcrowding the sheet pan can cause steaming instead of roasting.
Skipping the resting time for the chicken can lead to dry meat.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

Want to prep ahead? These fajitas are freezer-friendly! Here’s how to do it:

Marinate the chicken with seasoning and veggies in a freezer bag.
Label the bag with the date and contents before freezing.
When you’re ready to cook, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Questions People Ask

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but it’s best to thaw the chicken first for even cooking. If you’re in a hurry, you can bake it straight from frozen; just increase the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes.

What can I serve with Easy Baked Chicken Fajitas?

These fajitas pair well with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with rice, beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover fajitas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with a mix of your favorite vegetables or tofu, and adjust the seasoning as needed.

If you love Easy Baked Chicken Fajitas, you might also enjoy these reader favorites:

See You at the Table

With its vibrant colors and delectable flavors, Easy Baked Chicken Fajitas are sure to become a staple in your household. This dish not only makes for a quick weeknight dinner but also offers the opportunity to get creative with your favorite toppings and sides. So gather your loved ones around the table, serve up these delicious fajitas, and enjoy a meal filled with flavor, fun, and togetherness!