I recently made fajita stuffed chicken breasts, and it turned out to be an absolute favorite! The tender chicken breasts were perfectly stuffed with a flavorful combination of sautéed bell peppers, onions, and melted cheddar cheese.

The seasoning blend gave it a delicious, smoky kick that had everyone coming back for more. It’s a dish that’s easy to make, packed with bold flavors, and perfect for a family dinner. Whether you’re looking for something quick or want to impress your guests, this recipe is a must-try.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil, divided: for sautéing and searing
1 large onion, sliced: adds sweetness and depth
2–3 garlic cloves, minced: infuses aromatic flavor
2 medium bell peppers, seeded and sliced: choose any color for variety
4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts: the base of the dish
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: melts beautifully inside the chicken
Fresh parsley, chopped: for garnish
Optional: lime wedges: for a zesty finish

Fajita Seasoning:

1 tablespoon cornstarch: helps thicken and adhere the spices
1 teaspoon chili powder: adds mild heat
1 teaspoon kosher salt: enhances all flavors
1½ teaspoons smoked paprika: for a smoky depth
½ teaspoon onion powder: subtle sweetness
½ teaspoon garlic powder: savory undertone
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): for extra kick
1 teaspoon ground cumin: earthy flavor

Note: This recipe serves 4.

Variations

Dairy-Free: Substitute cheddar with dairy-free cheese alternatives like Daiya or Violife.
Cheese Alternatives: Try provolone, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles.
Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with portobello mushrooms or tofu for a plant-based twist.
Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper to your heat preference or omit for a milder version.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Equipment You Need

Large skillet: for sautéing and searing
Chef’s knife: for slicing vegetables and chicken
Cutting board: to safely chop ingredients
Toothpicks: to secure stuffed chicken
Small bowl: for mixing fajita seasoning

How to Make Fajita-Stuffed Chicken Breast?

Follow these easy steps to create a delicious, flavorful meal.

Step 1: Prepare the Fajita Seasoning

In a small bowl, combine cornstarch, chili powder, salt, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and ground cumin. Mix well to create a uniform seasoning blend. This homemade fajita seasoning will infuse the chicken and vegetables with authentic Tex-Mex flavors.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced onion, sautéing for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened. Add the sliced bell peppers and half of the fajita seasoning mix. Cook for an additional 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare and Stuff the Chicken

Using a sharp knife, cut a lengthwise pocket into each chicken breast, being careful not to slice all the way through. Rub the remaining fajita seasoning evenly over the chicken breasts, both inside and out. Stuff each pocket with the sautéed pepper-onion mixture and a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese. Secure the openings with toothpicks to hold the filling in place.

Step 4: Cook the Stuffed Chicken

In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Add ¼ cup of water to the skillet, cover, and reduce heat to low. Let the chicken cook for an additional 6–8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Serve

Remove the toothpicks from the chicken breasts. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lime wedges on the side for an added burst of freshness. Enjoy your flavorful fajita stuffed chicken breasts!

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for a more robust flavor.
If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add sliced jalapeños to the sautéed vegetables.
For a smoky depth, consider adding a dash of chipotle chili powder to the seasoning mix.
Ensure the chicken breasts are of uniform thickness for even cooking; consider pounding them to an even thickness if necessary.
Let the stuffed chicken breasts rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.

How to Serve Fajita Stuffed Chicken Breast?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside cilantro-lime rice, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables. For a low-carb option, sautéed zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice make excellent accompaniments. Garnish with additional lime wedges and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for added color and flavor.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (1 stuffed chicken breast):

Calories: 356 kcal
Protein: 34 g
Carbohydrates: 14 g
Fat: 18 g

Make Ahead and Storage

Refrigeration: Store any leftover stuffed chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing: Wrap each stuffed chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave on medium heat in 1-minute intervals, checking for doneness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This fajita stuffed chicken breast recipe is a standout for several reasons:

Flavorful: The combination of fajita seasoning, sautéed vegetables, and melted cheese creates a mouthwatering taste experience.
High in Protein: Each serving provides a substantial amount of lean protein, making it a satisfying meal.
Low in Carbs: With minimal carbohydrates, it’s suitable for low-carb and keto diets.
Customizable: Easily adjust the spice level and ingredients to suit your personal preferences.
Meal Prep Friendly: Stores well for leftovers, making it great for meal prepping.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ash Tyrrell