Easy & Healthy Chicken Fajita Bake
A delicious and healthy low-carb chicken fajita bake, perfect for an easy weeknight dinner. This flavorful casserole is packed with wholesome ingredients like chicken, bell peppers, and onions, all brought together with a creamy, cheesy fajita sauce.
Equipment
- Casserole Dish
- Large Frying Pan
- Large mixing bowl
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 10 pieces)
- 1 large red bell pepper seeded and thinly sliced
- 1 large onion peeled and thinly sliced
Sauce & Seasoning
- 8 ounces light cream cheese softened
- 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheddar-jack blend)
- 1.5 tablespoons fajita seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste (optional)
- Cooking spray or olive oil 1 tablespoon if using olive oil (for sautéing vegetables)
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken thighs in a casserole dish, cover tightly with foil, and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until cooked through (internal temperature reaches 160°F). Let the chicken cool slightly, then shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces. Drain any excess liquid from the dish.
- 2. Sauté the Veggies: While the chicken bakes, lightly coat a large frying pan with cooking spray or a touch of olive oil. Add the sliced red bell pepper and onion. Cook over medium-low heat for about 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are beautifully golden, tender, and slightly caramelized. Let them cool slightly.
- 3. Combine the Flavors: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened light cream cheese, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, and the fajita seasoning. Add the shredded chicken and the sautéed bell pepper and onion. Gently mix everything until well combined. Season with salt and pepper if desired.
- 4. Assemble and Bake: Transfer this vibrant mixture back into the same casserole dish you used for the chicken. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Bake for another 25-30 minutes at 350°F (175°C), until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
Notes
Nutrition Information per serving (8 servings):
- Calories: 393.5 kcal
- Total Carbs: 4.5 g
- Net Carbs: 3.7 g
- Fats: 25 g
- Protein: 36.4 g
- Fiber: 0.8 g (calculated as Total Carbs - Net Carbs)
