🌶️🍗 Fajita Chicken Casserole (Mediterranean-Style)

A vibrant, one-pan bake with bold spices, colorful vegetables & wholesome ingredients

This Fajita Chicken Casserole brings together the smoky flavors of classic fajitas with Mediterranean principles — extra virgin olive oil, plenty of vegetables, lean protein, and balanced seasoning. Inspired by the flavors of Mexico fajitas and adapted with Mediterranean ingredients, this dish is hearty, family-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights.

It’s naturally gluten-free, protein-rich, and can easily be made low-carb.


🌿 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • One-pan meal

  • High-protein & veggie-packed

  • Meal-prep friendly

  • Customizable heat level

  • Family favorite comfort food


🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

For the Chicken & Vegetables:

  • 500g boneless skinless chicken breast, sliced

  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced

  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced

  • 1 large onion, sliced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

  • Juice of ½ lime

  • Salt & black pepper to taste

Fajita Spice Blend:

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin

  • 1 teaspoon chili powder

  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano

  • ½ teaspoon ground coriander

  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne (optional)

Creamy Layer:

  • ¾ cup Greek yogurt

  • 100g cream cheese (softened)

  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack

  • ¼ cup crumbled feta (Mediterranean twist)

Garnish:

  • Fresh cilantro or parsley

  • Avocado slices

  • Cherry tomatoes

  • Extra squeeze of lime


👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Preheat

Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a large bowl, toss chicken with olive oil, garlic, lime juice, and fajita spices.

Step 3: Assemble

  1. Spread sliced peppers and onions in a baking dish.

  2. Layer seasoned chicken on top.

  3. In a separate bowl, mix Greek yogurt, cream cheese, and half the shredded cheese.

  4. Spread creamy mixture evenly over the chicken.

  5. Sprinkle remaining shredded cheese and feta on top.

Step 4: Bake

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and cheese is bubbly.

Step 5: Rest & Garnish

Let rest 5 minutes. Garnish with herbs, avocado, and tomatoes.


🥗 Mediterranean Health Benefits

  • Olive oil → heart-healthy fats

  • Bell peppers → high in vitamin C & antioxidants

  • Greek yogurt → protein & gut-friendly probiotics

  • Lean chicken → high-quality protein

  • Herbs & spices → anti-inflammatory properties

Balanced, satisfying, and nourishing.


🌟 Serving Ideas

Serve with:

  • Warm whole wheat pita

  • Brown rice or quinoa

  • Cauliflower rice (low-carb option)

  • Fresh cucumber-tomato salad


🔄 Variations

  • Add black beans for extra fiber

  • Make it dairy-light by skipping cream cheese

  • Use chicken thighs for juicier texture

  • Add sliced mushrooms or zucchini


❓ Q & A

Q1: Can I prepare this ahead?

Yes! Assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready.

Q2: Can I make it low-carb?

Absolutely — serve over cauliflower rice or eat on its own.

Q3: Can I freeze it?

Yes, freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before cooking.

Q4: How do I prevent dry chicken?

Avoid overbaking and slice chicken evenly for uniform cooking.

Q5: Can I make it spicier?

Add jalapeños or increase cayenne and chili powder.


🌶️ Pro Tip

For extra smoky flavor, broil for the last 2–3 minutes to lightly char the top — just like sizzling fajitas!

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