Baked Chicken Fajita Recipe with Sautéed Peppers and Onions

If you’re looking for a flavorful, wholesome meal that brings the vibrant tastes of Mexican cuisine right to your table, look no further than this Baked Chicken Fajita recipe! With juicy chicken, colorful bell peppers, and sweet onions, this dish is as delightful to the eyes as it is to the palate. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure filled with spice, zest, and comfort.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, and green), sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Juice of 1 lime
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Tortillas (corn or flour) for serving
• Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, shredded cheese

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures a perfectly baked chicken that is moist inside and slightly crispy outside.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15-30 minutes; if time allows, marinating overnight in the fridge can deepen the flavors significantly.

Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables

While the chicken marinates, slice your bell peppers and onion. The combination of colors not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the taste with varying sweetness levels from the different peppers.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken and Vegetables

Place the marinated chicken breasts in a large baking dish. Scatter the sliced bell peppers and onions around the chicken. Drizzle a little more olive oil over the vegetables and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). The vegetables will become tender and caramelized, complementing the chicken beautifully.

Step 5: Serve

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the chicken and serve it with the sautéed peppers and onions, either on warm tortillas or over a bed of rice.

Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and add your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, or salsa. Enjoy the delightful fusion of flavors!

Cooking Tips

• Ingredient Selection: Choose fresh, vibrant vegetables for the best flavor and nutrition. Organic options may enhance the taste and are free from pesticides.
• Spice Level: Adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding jalapeños can bring extra heat for those who love it spicy!
• Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair with a refreshing side salad or Mexican rice to create a complete meal.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Alternatives: For a healthier twist, substitute chicken with turkey or tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use corn tortillas or serve the fajitas over lettuce for a low-carb alternative.
• Vegetarian Fajitas: Skip the chicken entirely and double the amount of peppers and onions, adding mushrooms or zucchini for more depth.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Chicken Fajita recipe with sautéed peppers and onions is not just a meal, it’s an experience. The combination of spices and fresh ingredients brings a fiesta to your kitchen that the whole family can enjoy. Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors and ingredients to make this dish your own.

For more delightful recipes and cooking tips, check out How to Make Perfect Tortillas or Exploring Mexican Cuisine to broaden your culinary horizons.

Ready to bring the flavors of Mexico to your dinner table? Gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!