Description
Sizzling Mexican-inspired fajita chicken breasts casserole brings zesty southwestern flavors to dinner tables with bold spices and cheesy goodness. Hearty comfort meets restaurant-quality cuisine, promising delicious satisfaction for spice lovers seeking quick and satisfying meal solutions.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
Vegetables and Fresh Ingredients:
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
Dairy and Cheese:
- ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Other Liquid Ingredients:
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions
- Ignite the oven to a toasty 375F (190C), creating the perfect warm environment for culinary magic.
- Lovingly coat a 9×13-inch baking vessel with a light layer of cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Massage the chicken breasts with a fragrant blend of olive oil and a symphony of spices: salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cumin, ensuring every inch is thoroughly seasoned.
- Nestle the spice-laden chicken into the prepared baking dish, creating a flavorful foundation.
- Awaken a skillet over medium-high heat, drizzling with olive oil to create a sizzling stage for vegetables.
- Toss bell peppers, onions, and minced garlic into the hot pan, dancing and softening for 3-4 minutes until they release their vibrant aromas.
- Artfully scatter the caramelized fajita vegetables across the waiting chicken, creating a colorful landscape.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together a creamy elixir of sour cream, cream cheese, cheddar, mozzarella, chicken broth, zesty lime juice, taco seasoning, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes until silky smooth.
- Cascade the luxurious sauce evenly over the chicken and vegetables, ensuring complete coverage.
- Shower the top with an additional layer of shredded cheese for extra indulgence.
- Slide the casserole into the preheated oven, allowing it to bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the chicken reaches a perfect internal temperature of 165F (75C) and the cheese transforms into a bubbly golden blanket.
- Extract the dish from the oven and grant it a 5-minute rest to settle and meld flavors.
- Crown the creation with a vibrant garnish of freshly chopped cilantro and delicate jalapeño slices.
- Present alongside fluffy rice, warm tortillas, or a crisp salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Customize spice levels by adjusting red pepper flakes and chili powder for heat-sensitive palates.
- Ensure chicken remains juicy by avoiding overcooking and checking internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
- Substitute dairy ingredients with dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream and vegan cheese for lactose-intolerant or plant-based diets.
- Prep vegetables and seasonings ahead of time to streamline cooking process and reduce overall meal preparation time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg