Description
This Fajita Stuffed Chicken recipe features tender boneless chicken breasts filled with sautéed bell peppers, onions, and melted Monterey Jack cheese. The chicken is seasoned with taco spices, seared for a golden crust, then baked to juicy perfection. Serve with lime wedges and your favorite Mexican-inspired toppings for a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables & Protein
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 16-20 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Seasonings & Fats
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Serving
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat and Sauté Vegetables: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Heat the olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat, then add the diced bell pepper and onion. Cook the vegetables until they are softened and lightly browned, which builds great flavor. Remove the skillet from heat and set aside.
- Prepare Chicken: Butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing horizontally through the side to create a pocket for the filling. Season both sides of each chicken breast evenly with the taco seasoning for that classic fajita flavor.
- Stuff and Sear: Spoon the sautéed bell pepper and onion mixture along with shredded Monterey Jack cheese into the pockets of each chicken breast. Use toothpicks if needed to secure the filling. Add a little more olive oil to the skillet if necessary, and sear the stuffed chicken breasts on both sides until nicely browned, locking in the flavors and giving a beautiful crust.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet with the seared stuffed chicken breasts to the preheated oven. Bake for 15 to 25 minutes until the chicken is completely cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring the chicken is juicy and safe to eat.
- Serve: Remove toothpicks carefully, serve the stuffed chicken hot with lime wedges on the side. Add your favorite toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or pico de gallo to complement and enhance the flavors.
Notes
- If you don’t have a cast-iron skillet, a regular oven-safe skillet or baking dish will work for baking the chicken.
- Butterflying the chicken breasts helps them cook evenly and makes stuffing easier.
- For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of taco seasoning or choose a mild blend.
- Allow the cooked chicken to rest a few minutes before serving to keep it juicy.
- Serve with rice, beans, or a fresh salad to make a full meal.
