Name: One Pan Cheesy Fajita Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds chicken cut into chunks; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 cup bell pepper, cut into small pieces; 1/2 cup onion, cut into small pieces; 2 jalapeños, seeded and diced; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1/3 cup chicken broth; 2 ounces cream cheese; 1 cup cheddar, divided

Introduction to One Pan Cheesy Fajita Chicken

Are you on the lookout for an easy weeknight dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor? Look no further than One Pan Cheesy Fajita Chicken! This dish brings together tender chunks of chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and a creamy cheese sauce, all made in a single skillet. It’s the ultimate recipe for busy young professionals who want to whip up something quick yet satisfying.

What makes One Pan Cheesy Fajita Chicken a must-try?

Simplicity with Big Flavor: You only need one pan, which means less cleanup while still enjoying a hearty, delicious meal. The spices like cumin and chili powder work together to create that authentic fajita flavor, enticing your taste buds.
Perfect for Meal Prepping: With just 25 minutes from prep to table, this dish is ideal for meal prepping. Easily portion it out for lunches and dinners throughout the week. Plus, it's low in carbs, making it a great option for those watching their intake.
Customizable and Versatile: Feel free to toss in any leftover veggies or switch up the proteins. Add some avocado or fresh cilantro as a garnish to elevate the dish even further.

Ready to dive into this delicious recipe? Your future self will thank you for trying this mouthwatering one-pan wonder! For more exciting meal ideas, check out The Kitchn and explore their easy weeknight recipes.

Ingredients for One Pan Cheesy Fajita Chicken

Chicken and seasoning ingredients

To get started on your one pan cheesy fajita chicken, you’ll need about 1.5 pounds of chicken, cut into bite-sized chunks. For that bold flavor, don’t forget to season your chicken with 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, and a blend of ½ teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. These spices will create a mouth-watering base for your dish!

Veggies for extra flavor

Adding a rainbow of vegetables not only enhances the dish's visual appeal but also boosts its nutritional value. Gather 1 tablespoon of butter, 1 cup of bell peppers (chopped), ½ cup of onion (diced), and 2 diced jalapeños—these will bring a delightful crunch and spice to your plate.

Creamy cheese sauce components

Lastly, the magic creamy cheese sauce that ties everything together includes ¼ cup of heavy cream, ⅓ cup of chicken broth, 2 ounces of cream cheese, and 1 cup of cheddar cheese, with half set aside for topping. The result? A rich, cheesy goodness that your family will love!

For more tasty cheese sauce tips, check out this guide.

Step-by-step Preparation for One Pan Cheesy Fajita Chicken

Cooking can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially on busy weeknights. But fear not! Making this one pan cheesy fajita chicken is not only quick but also a delightful way to meet your family’s craving for flavor. With minimal cleanup and every bite filled with goodness, let’s break down the steps to make this delicious dish!

Prep the chicken and spices

To start, gather your ingredients. You’ll need about 1.5 pounds of chicken, cut into bite-sized chunks. In a bowl, mix together the spices: 1 teaspoon each of cumin and chili powder, along with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This spice blend packs a real punch! Once mixed, sprinkle it evenly over the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well-coated. This is where the magic begins—your chicken will be bursting with flavor as it cooks!

Cook the chicken until browned

Next, heat up a large skillet over medium heat. A non-stick option works wonders, but if you have a well-seasoned cast iron skillet, use it! Add a light spray of nonstick spray or up to 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the pan is hot, it’s time to sear your chicken. Cook the chicken for about 2-3 minutes on each side until it’s beautifully browned. Don’t rush this step; that golden color adds fantastic depth to the dish.

Add the veggies to the pan

Now comes the best part—introducing colorful veggies! Toss in 1 cup of bell peppers (any colors you love), ½ cup of chopped onions, and if you’re feeling adventurous, 2 diced jalapeños for a touch of spice. Cook these with the chicken for about 5 minutes until the veggies start to soften. They’ll absorb the chicken’s flavors, elevating your one pan cheesy fajita chicken to new heights!

Make the creamy cheese sauce

Once your chicken and veggies are cooking away, it's time for the ultimate cheesy moment. In the same skillet, pour in ¼ cup of heavy cream and ⅓ cup of chicken broth. Add 2 ounces of cream cheese and half of your 1-cup stash of cheddar, stirring over medium-low heat. Let this simmer until the sauce thickens into a creamy dream. This cheese sauce is the secret to making every bite irresistible!

Combine everything and let simmer

Finally, return the chicken and veggies to the skillet, making sure they're enveloped in that luscious sauce. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar on top and cover the skillet with a lid. Let it simmer on low for about 6-8 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Trust me; your patience will be rewarded when you serve this comforting dish.

Feel free to garnish with your favorite taco toppings—think avocado, fresh tomatoes, or even chopped cilantro. There you have it! A comforting and mouth-watering one pan cheesy fajita chicken that embodies the spirit of quick and delicious home cooking.

Variations on One Pan Cheesy Fajita Chicken

When it comes to the One Pan Cheesy Fajita Chicken, versatility is key! Here are a couple of delightful variations to make this dish uniquely yours.

Make it spicy with extra jalapeños

If you love that extra kick, toss in a few more jalapeños! Feel free to sauté them with the veggies or sprinkle them on top just before serving. As noted by Food Network, zesty toppings can elevate your dish and make it more exciting.

Add more veggies like zucchini or mushrooms

Enhance your one pan cheesy fajita chicken by incorporating zucchini or mushrooms. These veggies not only complement the dish but also add various textures and flavors. Plus, adding more greens can boost nutritional value! Experiment with what you have on hand—get creative!

With these simple modifications, you can keep your meals engaging and enjoyable. Happy cooking!

Cooking Tips and Notes for One Pan Cheesy Fajita Chicken

Ensuring the chicken stays tender

To keep your chicken juicy and tender in this one pan cheesy fajita chicken, sear it over medium heat until browned, but be careful not to overcook. Using a meat thermometer can help—look for an internal temperature of 165°F. Additionally, allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking will help lock in those delicious juices!

Customizing spice levels to your liking

Feel free to tailor the spice level of your one pan cheesy fajita chicken to suit your taste preferences! If you're a fan of heat, increase the amount of chili powder or add more jalapeños. For a milder flavor, simply reduce the spices or swap out jalapeños for bell peppers. This dish is versatile, making it easy to adjust as you see fit!

For more tips on spice customization, check out this handy guide.

Serving Suggestions for One Pan Cheesy Fajita Chicken

Perfect sides to complement the dish

Pair your one pan cheesy fajita chicken with delightful sides to enhance your meal. Consider serving:

Cauliflower rice: A low-carb alternative that soaks up the cheesy sauce beautifully.
Zucchini noodles: Light and fresh, adding a nice crunch alongside your chicken.
Mexican-style slaw: A tangy, crunchy side to balance the richness of the dish.

Garnishes to elevate presentation

Garnishing can turn a simple dish into a visual masterpiece! For your one pan cheesy fajita chicken, try:

Avocado slices: Creamy and rich, they add a wonderful texture.
Chopped cilantro or parsley: A sprinkle of fresh herbs brightens the plate.
Sour cream: A dollop of tanginess enhances the flavors perfectly.

Elevate your dining experience with these thoughtful touches! For more cooking tips, visit Cooking Light or Serious Eats.

Time Breakdown for One Pan Cheesy Fajita Chicken

Preparation time

In just 10 minutes, you can have everything prepped and ready to go. This includes chopping your veggies and seasoning the chicken—perfect for busy weeknights!

Cooking time

The cooking process takes approximately 15 minutes. Simple steps ensure your one pan cheesy fajita chicken is both flavorful and easy to prepare.

Total time

In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table. This is a fantastic option for those looking to enjoy a homemade dish without spending hours in the kitchen!

For more quick and tasty recipes, check out this guide on weeknight dinners!

Nutritional Facts for One Pan Cheesy Fajita Chicken

Calories per serving
This delectable One Pan Cheesy Fajita Chicken comes in at just 344 calories per serving. It’s a low-calorie option that satisfies both your appetite and your taste buds!

Protein content
Packed with a whopping 34 grams of protein, this dish is perfect for anyone looking to increase their protein intake. Whether you're working out or simply trying to feel fuller longer, this recipe has you covered.

Net carbs and more
With only 4.7 grams of net carbs, this meal fits beautifully into low-carb diets. Additional nutritional benefits include 19.8 grams of fat and a notable 1.4 grams of fiber for digestive health.

For more detailed nutritional insights, consider visiting resources like the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Data Central or the Nutrition Data by SELF.

FAQs about One Pan Cheesy Fajita Chicken

How can I make this dish dairy-free?
If you're looking to enjoy this one pan cheesy fajita chicken without dairy, simply substitute the cream cheese and heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cheese alternative. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor without the dairy, and almond milk can replace heavy cream in the sauce.

Can I use frozen chicken or veggies?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, frozen chicken and vegetables can work just fine. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as frozen ingredients may take a bit longer to heat through. You might consider thawing them beforehand for a quicker cooking process.

What can I serve with this dish?
Pair your one pan cheesy fajita chicken with a side of cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or serve it with your favorite tortilla chips if you want a delightful crunch. A fresh green salad or guacamole can also complement the flavors beautifully. Don't forget to customize it with toppings like diced avocado, cilantro, or green onions!

For more healthy recipes, check out EatingWell or The Kitchn.

Conclusion on One Pan Cheesy Fajita Chicken

You’ll love how straightforward and satisfying this One Pan Cheesy Fajita Chicken recipe is. With vibrant flavors and a creamy cheese sauce, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Embrace this delicious dish and transform your dinners into a flavorful fiesta, with minimal cleanup to boot!