Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken

Ingredients:

Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Arrange the Chicken: Evenly Place the chicken breasts at the baking dish’s bottom.
Mix the Topping: In a medium bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, salsa, and fajita seasoning until smooth.
Top the Chicken: Spread the cream cheese mixture over the chicken breasts, fully covering each.
Add Bell Peppers: Layer the sliced bell peppers on top of the cream cheese mixture.
Cheese it Up: Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the bell peppers, covering the dish evenly. Add the cheese halfway through cooking to prevent burning if using thicker chicken breasts.
Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 20-45 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Rest and Serve: Once cooked, allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken with sides like Spanish rice, cauliflower rice, or tortillas.

Marinate for Extra Flavor: Marinate the chicken in lime juice, olive oil, and fajita seasoning for 30 minutes before baking.
Roast the Peppers: Pre-roast the bell peppers for 10 minutes to enhance their sweetness and add a caramelized flavor.
Mix Up the Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a blend for a unique flavor profile.
Add a Kick: Incorporate jalapeños or green chilies into the cream cheese mixture for a spicy twist.
Garnish with Freshness: Top with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, green onions, or avocado slices after baking for added freshness and texture.
Serve with Homemade Salsa: Complement your dish with a homemade salsa of fresh tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, cilantro, and lime juice.
Experiment with Sides: Try serving with black bean and corn salad, quinoa pilaf, or grilled vegetables for a nutritious meal.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

How do I make this dish spicier?

What sides pair well with this dish?

Can I freeze leftovers?

How do I prevent the cheese from burning?

Add the cheese halfway through baking or cover with foil if it browns too quickly.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Tenderize the Chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices offer a more vibrant flavor than pre-ground ones.
High-Quality Cream Cheese: Opt for full-fat cream cheese for a richer texture.
Balance Creaminess: If the cream cheese mixture is too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to thin it out.
Prevent Dryness: Use thin chicken breasts and monitor cooking time closely to avoid overcooking.
Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add onions, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra veggies.
Make It Smoky: Add smoked paprika or chipotle powder to the seasoning for a smoky flavor.