Easy One-Skillet Keto Chicken Fajita Casserole (Creamy & Flavorful!)
Get ready for a burst of vibrant flavor with this Easy One-Skillet Keto Chicken Fajita Casserole! Tender chicken and colorful bell peppers are sautéed with savory onions, then mixed into a creamy, seasoned sauce before being topped with melty cheddar cheese and baked to bubbly perfection. This comforting, low-carb, high-protein, and naturally gluten-free dish comes together quickly in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze! It’s a delightful addition to your health journey!
Yields: 4-6 servings Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 30-35 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1 to 2-inch pieces (about 1.5-2 lbs)
- 4 medium bell peppers, sliced (vary colors for visual appeal – red, yellow, orange, green)
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1 (1-ounce) packet taco seasoning (KETO NOTE: Ensure no added sugar or starches)
- 1 cup sour cream (full-fat recommended)
- 4 ounces (½ block) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, grated, divided
- Salt and black pepper to taste (optional, if taco seasoning isn’t enough)
Equipment:
- Oven-safe skillet (e.g., cast iron or oven-safe stainless steel, at least 10-12 inches)
- Spatula or tongs
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven & Sauté Chicken: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the cut chicken pieces to the skillet and sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the sliced onion and bell peppers to the same skillet (add a tiny bit more olive oil if needed). Sauté over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Combine & Create Creamy Base: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables.
- Add the taco seasoning, sour cream, and softened cream cheese to the skillet. Stir very well, mixing everything together until the cream cheese is fully incorporated and a creamy sauce coats the chicken and vegetables.
- Top & Bake: Sprinkle the entire contents of the skillet evenly with 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese on top is completely melted and lightly golden brown. If you prefer extra browning, you can broil for the last 1-2 minutes (watch carefully!).
- Serve & Enjoy! Remove the skillet from the oven. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious One-Skillet Chicken Fajita Casserole!
Tips for Success:
- Oven-Safe Skillet: Using a single oven-safe skillet simplifies cleanup significantly. If you don’t have one, transfer the mixture to a casserole dish before baking.
- Keto Taco Seasoning: Many standard taco seasoning packets contain sugar or cornstarch. Look for brands specifically labeled “keto-friendly” or make your own blend with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne.
- Chicken Choice: Chicken thighs tend to stay juicier, but breasts work well too.
- Softened Cream Cheese: Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature to mix smoothly into the sauce without lumps.
- Customization: Top with fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or a dollop of extra sour cream after baking for added flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve this casserole on its own, with a side of keto tortilla chips, or wrapped in large lettuce leaves for an extra low-carb option.
Recipe Analysis & Dietary Classification:
This One-Skillet Chicken Fajita Casserole is a delightful addition to your health journey!
- High Protein: Yes, from the chicken and dairy.
- High Fat: Yes, from the olive oil, chicken thighs (if used), sour cream, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese.
- Low-Carb: Yes, this recipe is very low-carb by using non-starchy vegetables and compliant dairy.
- Keto: Yes, this recipe is keto-friendly, provided the taco seasoning packet is sugar-free and low-carb. All other listed ingredients are suitable for a ketogenic diet.
- Gluten-Free: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Read on How to Prepare Broccoli Cheddar Chips.
