Living in the Dominican Republic has taught me to be resourceful in the kitchen. Ingredients are sometimes scarce, and I’ve had to learn to adapt my cooking for sea-level baking challenges and a family of six with different needs. This chicken fajita casserole quickly became one of our family’s go-to meals because it’s low in carbs, packed with flavor, and easy to throw together on a busy weeknight. With two kids still at home and type 2 diabetes to manage, I love that it checks all the boxes—healthy, hearty, and family-approved.
Hearty Layers of Flavor
This chicken fajita casserole stands out with its hearty layers that promise satisfaction with every bite.
Tender pieces of chicken are seasoned perfectly, creating a savory base that complements the vibrant bell peppers and onions.
Each ingredient plays a role in building a comforting dish that will warm you from the inside out.
I remember the first time I made this casserole here in the Dominican Republic—I couldn’t find all the right spices, so I improvised with what I had. The kids still raved about it, and it became a repeat request.
A Colorful Presentation
Visually, this casserole is stunning.
The colorful bell peppers add a delightful pop of color that brightens up the dish, making it appealing not just to the taste buds but also to the eyes.
Garnishing with fresh cilantro adds an extra touch of freshness, inviting you to dig in.
When bell peppers are in season here, the market stalls are overflowing with vibrant reds, yellows, and greens. Using a mix of colors not only makes this dish beautiful but also excites my younger kids to eat more vegetables.
Easy Preparation Steps
Preparing this casserole is a breeze, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Start by cooking the chicken in olive oil and seasoning it with a blend of spices.
Once the chicken is ready, mix in the sliced bell peppers and onions for a quick sauté before transferring everything to a casserole dish.
This has become one of my weeknight lifesavers. Between ministry work and helping with homework, I can get this casserole on the table fast without sacrificing flavor.
Cheesy Delight
The crowning glory of this dish is the melted cheese that bubbles and browns while baking.
As it comes out of the oven, the aroma fills the kitchen, making it hard to resist.
This cheesy topping not only adds flavor but also a creamy texture that enhances each forkful.
One of my boys always tries to sneak into the kitchen while it’s baking just to be the first to scoop up the crispy, browned cheese topping. It’s become a little tradition for him to “taste test” before we serve.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is delightful on its own, but you can elevate the meal with a few extras.
Consider serving it with a dollop of sour cream for an added layer of richness.
Pairing with a fresh salad on the side can also provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, cheesy casserole.
Sometimes I serve it with fresh avocado slices from our backyard tree. It adds a creamy, cool contrast to the spicy, cheesy casserole.
Nutritional Benefits
Designed to fit within a low-carb lifestyle, this dish is both nourishing and satisfying.
With 30 grams of protein and only 8 grams of carbohydrates per serving, it’s an excellent choice for those watching their carb intake.
Enjoy this fulfilling meal without the guilt, knowing it aligns with your dietary goals.
Keto-Friendly Chicken Fajita Casserole
This keto chicken fajita casserole is a savory delight, combining seasoned chicken with bell peppers and onions, all baked together and topped with melted cheese. It’s creamy, zesty, and perfect for a hearty dinner without the carbs.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
- 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional for serving)
- Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Ingredient Substitutions
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts for extra juiciness.
- Monterey Jack or mozzarella can replace cheddar if you prefer a milder cheese.
- Coconut oil can be used in place of olive oil for a subtle flavor twist.
- Cauliflower rice makes a great side if you want to stretch the meal without adding carbs.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and season with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink.
- Add the sliced bell peppers and onions to the skillet and sauté until they are tender.
- Transfer the chicken and vegetable mixture to a greased casserole dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve hot, garnished with sour cream and cilantro if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
Pro Tips
- Cut chicken into evenly sized cubes so they cook at the same rate.
- Use a cast iron skillet for better caramelization on the chicken before baking.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving to brighten the flavors.
- Don’t overbake—remove as soon as the cheese is bubbly to avoid drying out the chicken.
- If you like extra heat, add diced jalapeños to the pepper mix.
Tip from Grammie Shirley
Always shred your own cheese instead of buying pre-shredded. It melts better and doesn’t have the starchy coating that can affect flavor.
Nutrition & Serving Info
Estimated per serving (4 servings total):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
Q&A
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it earlier in the day, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Just add 5 minutes to the baking time.
Q: Can I freeze this recipe?
Absolutely. Prepare the casserole, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Q: What can I serve alongside this casserole?
A fresh green salad, cauliflower rice, or sautéed zucchini make excellent low-carb pairings.
Q: How can I make this spicier?
Add cayenne pepper or swap chili powder for chipotle powder for a smoky kick.
Q: Is this recipe diabetic-friendly?
Yes, with only 8 grams of carbs per serving, it fits well into a diabetic-friendly meal plan while still being satisfying.
Final Thoughts
This chicken fajita casserole is proof that eating low-carb doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or family favorites. It’s hearty enough to satisfy my growing boys, simple enough for a weeknight, and healthy enough for my own wellness goals. I hope it brings as much joy to your table as it does to ours.
Hi, I’m Jason—a dad, home cook, and type 2 diabetic living overseas. I created Clean Eats Hub to help people discover simple, delicious, and health-forward meals that support their personal wellness goals. Whether you’re managing blood sugar, pursuing weight loss, or just trying to eat cleaner, I believe healthy food should never feel like a compromise. Here you’ll find real recipes that work for real life—family-tested, flavor-packed, and always nourishing.
