Keto Chicken Fajita Casserole – A Cheesy, Flavorful Dinner

Turn your favorite fajitas into a low-carb, cheesy delight with this Keto Chicken Fajita Casserole! Packed with juicy chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and Mexican spices, this dish is an easy, family-friendly dinner that satisfies your Tex-Mex cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Low-Carb & High-Protein: All the fajita flavor without the tortillas.
• One-Pan Wonder: Easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights.
• Cheesy Comfort: A satisfying, hearty meal loaded with cheese.

My Personal Experience

I’ve always loved fajitas, but finding a keto-friendly version was a challenge—until I discovered this casserole! It has all the flavors I love, from the smoky spices to the melted cheese, but skips the carbs. The best part is how easy it is to throw together. My whole family enjoyed it, even those not following a keto diet!

Ingredients & Substitutions

• Chicken Breast: Boneless and skinless, but thighs work too for juicier meat.
• Bell Peppers: Use a mix of red, green, and yellow for a pop of color.
• Onion: Adds sweetness; skip if avoiding carbs strictly.
• Mexican Seasoning: A blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic, and onion powder. Use a store-bought fajita mix if preferred.
• Cream Cheese: Adds creaminess to the casserole.
• Shredded Cheese: Cheddar or a Mexican blend works best. Monterey Jack is a great alternative.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing the veggies and chicken.
• Lime Juice: Adds freshness and a zesty kick.

How to Make Keto Chicken Fajita Casserole

1. Prep the Chicken and Veggies:
   • Slice chicken breasts, bell peppers, and onions into thin strips.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add chicken strips and cook until golden and cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, and Mexican seasoning. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the Veggies:
   • In the same skillet, sauté bell peppers and onions until tender.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, layer the cooked chicken and veggies. Spread softened cream cheese on top, then sprinkle with shredded cheese.
5. Bake:
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • Squeeze fresh lime juice over the casserole and garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve hot with keto-friendly sides like cauliflower rice or a simple salad.

Essential Equipment You’ll Need for This Recipe

1. Skillet: To cook the chicken and sauté the vegetables.
2. Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For slicing the chicken, bell peppers, and onion.
3. Baking Dish (9×13 inches): For assembling and baking the casserole.
4. Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) for baking the dish.
5. Mixing Spoon or Spatula: For stirring and spreading the ingredients.
6. Measuring Spoons: To measure the spices and lime juice accurately.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Fajita Casserole

• Marinate the Chicken: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lime juice and spices for 30 minutes before cooking.
• Add Heat: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Use Pre-Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken makes this dish even quicker.

Storing and Reheating

• Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Common Questions and Helpful Answers

• Can I use ground chicken instead of strips? Yes, ground chicken works well and makes prep even easier.
• What other cheeses can I use? Pepper Jack, Colby, or Mozzarella are great alternatives.
• Can I add more vegetables? Absolutely! Mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach would be tasty additions.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

• Calories: ~320
• Fat: 20g
• Protein: 28g
• Net Carbs: 4g

Did you try this recipe? We’d love to hear your feedback in the comments below! Be sure to follow us on Facebook for more tasty keto recipes and inspiration!