Bell Pepper Chicken Casserole: Your Easy, Healthy, Fajita-Inspired Weeknight Dinner (Weight Watchers Friendly!)

Craving the vibrant, smoky flavors of chicken fajitas but dreading the prep and constant stirring? Look no further than the sensational Bell Pepper Chicken Casserole! This ingenious recipe delivers all the savory satisfaction you love about fajitas – tender, juicy chicken, colorful bell peppers, and sweet onions – all baked together effortlessly in a single dish. It’s the ultimate answer for a busy weeknight when you desire maximum flavor with minimal fuss.

What makes this casserole truly exceptional is its simplicity. Forget multiple pans and continuous attention; everything cooks harmoniously at once. It’s a straightforward, no-fuss recipe that promises big on flavor and unparalleled convenience. Plus, for those mindful of their diet, it’s incredibly Weight Watchers friendly, coming in at just 2 Points per serving. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this dish is designed to make healthy eating delicious and accessible. For more comforting, low-point recipes perfect for any season, be sure to explore our extensive collection on the Weight Watchers Casseroles page.

Why Bell Pepper Chicken Casserole is a Must-Try for Your Dinner Rotation

This Bell Pepper Chicken Casserole isn’t just another recipe; it’s a game-changer for anyone seeking delicious, healthy, and easy meals. Here are just a few compelling reasons why it has become a staple in many kitchens:

1. Authentic Fajita Flavor, Effortlessly Achieved: Imagine biting into tender chicken and perfectly cooked bell peppers, infused with robust, zesty fajita seasoning, without all the typical fuss. The Bell Pepper Chicken Casserole brings that unmistakable Mexican-inspired taste directly to your table with minimal effort. It captures the essence of sizzling fajitas – the smoky spice, the tender texture of chicken, and the sweetness of caramelized vegetables – all baked together. It’s the ideal solution for those evenings when you crave bold flavors but don’t feel like standing over the stove, flipping and stirring. The oven does all the hard work, melding the flavors beautifully.
2. A Weight Watchers Dream at Just 2 Points: For anyone actively managing their Weight Watchers points, this dish is an absolute winner. At an incredibly low 2 Weight Watchers points per serving, you can indulge in a hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying meal without an ounce of guilt. This casserole is thoughtfully packed with lean protein from the chicken breasts and an abundance of zero-point vegetables, making it a powerful ally in your healthy eating journey. It’s not just about the low points; it’s about providing a filling and nutritious meal that supports your wellness goals. The added bonus? You simply chop the vegetables, layer them with seasoned chicken, and bake, saving you precious time in the kitchen. This makes it perfect for meal prepping, ensuring you have healthy options readily available throughout the week.
3. Unmatched Versatility with Any Side Dish: One of the greatest advantages of this Bell Pepper Chicken Casserole is its incredible adaptability. This recipe truly pairs beautifully with almost any side you can imagine, making it a go-to for diverse palates and dietary preferences. Whether you’re leaning towards a light and crisp green salad, a wholesome serving of roasted vegetables, a comforting bowl of black bean chili, or even traditional rice or quinoa, this casserole integrates seamlessly. For a low-carb alternative, consider serving it with cauliflower rice or wrapped in lettuce cups. It’s a versatile dish that works perfectly for a casual family dinner, an impressive meal for guests, or as a convenient component of your weekly meal prep strategy.
4. Minimal Prep, Even Less Cleanup: The one-pan method isn’t just a convenience; it’s a lifesaver on busy days. By cooking everything together in a single casserole dish, you dramatically cut down on the number of pots and pans used, which means no daunting mountain of dishes waiting for you after dinner. This translates to less chopping, less active cooking time on the stovetop, and more precious moments for yourself or with loved ones. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel accomplished without the exhaustive cleanup, proving that delicious home-cooked meals don’t have to be a chore.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Servings: 4

Portion Size: 1/4 of the casserole

2 WW Points Per Serving. You can view the recipe on the WW Apphere. (WW login required.)

Essential Ingredients for Your Flavorful Casserole

Crafting this delicious Bell Pepper Chicken Casserole requires a straightforward list of ingredients, most of which you likely already have on hand. Each component plays a crucial role in building the layered flavors that make this dish so satisfying and reminiscent of your favorite fajitas. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:

• 4 chicken breasts (about 600 g): Lean boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star of this dish, providing a healthy, protein-packed base. They cook up tender and absorb the seasonings beautifully.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing all the other flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and complements the other spices.
• 1 garlic clove, minced: Freshly minced garlic provides an aromatic depth that is fundamental to the savory profile.
• 1 teaspoon olive oil: A small amount of olive oil helps to lightly coat the dish, prevent sticking, and contribute a hint of richness, without adding excessive points. You can also use a non-stick cooking spray for an even lighter option.
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning: This is where the magic happens! Taco seasoning is typically a blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder, instantly infusing that signature fajita flavor into your chicken.
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin: While already in taco seasoning, an extra dash of cumin elevates the earthy, warm, and slightly smoky notes, which are crucial for an authentic Mexican-inspired taste.
• 1/2 large onion, thinly sliced (about 1/2 cup or 60 g): Sliced onions soften and caramelize during baking, adding a sweet and savory foundation to the casserole.
• 1 large green bell pepper, sliced into strips (about 1 cup or 150 g): Green bell peppers offer a slightly bitter, fresh counterpoint and classic fajita color.
• 1 large red bell pepper, sliced into strips (about 1 cup or 150 g): Red bell peppers bring a lovely sweetness and vibrant color, making the dish visually appealing and adding depth of flavor. You can also use yellow or orange for even more color variation.
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (60 g): Mozzarella cheese melts beautifully, creating a gooey, irresistible topping that binds the casserole together and adds a touch of creamy indulgence. Its mild flavor doesn’t overpower the fajita spices.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Perfect Casserole

Making this Bell Pepper Chicken Casserole is incredibly simple, requiring minimal hands-on time for maximum flavor. Follow these easy steps to create a delicious and healthy meal:

1. Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to a precise 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is at the optimal temperature when you place the casserole inside, allowing for even cooking from the very start and helping the chicken and vegetables cook through properly.
2. Season the chicken thoroughly: Place the chicken breasts on a clean cutting board. In a small bowl, combine the 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, minced garlic, 1 tablespoon taco seasoning, and 1/2 teaspoon cumin. Rub this aromatic blend generously over all sides of each chicken breast. Take your time to massage the seasoning into the chicken; this step is crucial for infusing maximum flavor throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is bursting with that delicious fajita essence.
3. Prepare the vegetables: Take your 1/2 large onion, 1 large green bell pepper, and 1 large red bell pepper, and carefully slice them into thin, even strips, also known as julienne-style. Aim for strips that are roughly ¼-inch thick. Thinly slicing the vegetables ensures they cook evenly and soften beautifully in the oven alongside the chicken, rather than remaining too crunchy.
4. Arrange the casserole layers: In a suitable casserole dish (a 9×13-inch dish works perfectly), drizzle 1 teaspoon of olive oil and spread it evenly across the bottom. If you’re looking to further reduce fat, a non-stick cooking spray is an excellent alternative. Next, meticulously arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer on the bottom of the dish. Finally, evenly distribute the sliced onions and colorful bell peppers over the chicken, creating a vibrant and flavorful top layer.
5. Cover and initial bake: Once your casserole is assembled, securely cover the dish with aluminum foil. This seals in the moisture and creates a steaming effect, which is key to ensuring the chicken cooks through without drying out and the vegetables become tender. Place the covered dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Uncover and add cheese for the final bake: After the initial 25 minutes, carefully remove the casserole from the oven. Gently peel back and remove the aluminum foil. Now, sprinkle the 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the vegetables. Return the uncovered dish to the oven for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. This final uncovered bake allows the cheese to become perfectly gooey and adds a delightful finishing touch.
7. Check for doneness: Food safety is paramount! Before serving, ensure your chicken is fully cooked. The most accurate way is to check its internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C) at its thickest part. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can carefully slice into the thickest part of one of the chicken breasts to confirm that the center is no longer pink and the juices run clear.
8. Rest and serve: Once the casserole is done and safely cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This crucial resting period allows the juices within the chicken to redistribute, resulting in more tender, moist, and flavorful chicken. After resting, serve 1/4 of the casserole per person. Garnish with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime if desired, and savor every delicious bite of your homemade Bell Pepper Chicken Casserole!

Creative Variations and Smart Substitutions for Your Casserole

The Bell Pepper Chicken Casserole is wonderfully flexible, making it easy to adapt to your taste preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Don’t be afraid to get creative and personalize this recipe! Here are some fantastic variations and substitutions to consider:

1. Embrace a Rainbow of Colorful Bell Peppers: While traditional red and green bell peppers offer a classic fajita look and taste, you can truly brighten up this dish and introduce new flavor notes by incorporating yellow or orange peppers. Yellow peppers tend to be slightly sweeter, while orange peppers offer a milder, fruity flavor. Mixing and matching colors not only enhances the visual appeal of your casserole, making it even more appetizing, but also adds a broader spectrum of vitamins and antioxidants. Remember, when I couldn’t find yellow bell peppers at the store, I stuck to the basics, but the more color you can add, the better!
2. Infuse Smoky Depth with Roasted Bell Peppers: For an extra layer of complex flavor, consider using roasted bell peppers. Roasting brings out their inherent sweetness and adds a delightful smoky nuance that elevates the entire casserole. You can either roast them yourself at home (slice, toss with a little olive oil, and roast until tender and slightly charred) or, for ultimate convenience, purchase jarred roasted bell peppers. Simply drain them well before adding to the casserole. I’ve made this casserole with both fresh and roasted peppers, and I have to say, the roasted variety brings a lovely, rich, smoky taste to the dish that can make it feel even more gourmet.
3. Create a Creamy, Comforting Version: If you’re in the mood for a heartier, more comforting casserole, you can easily transform this dish into a creamy chicken and peppers delight. To achieve this, mix a packet of cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup for an even more chicken-forward flavor) with two cups of milk or chicken broth. Pour this creamy mixture over the chicken and vegetables before the initial bake. This will yield a rich, velvety sauce that envelops all the ingredients, making it an ideal meal for colder evenings. It’s like a delicious cross between classic fajitas and a traditional, creamy casserole.
4. Experiment with Cheesy Topping Options: Mozzarella is a superb choice for its melt-factor and mild flavor, but the cheese topping offers a fantastic opportunity for customization. If you’re feeling adventurous, try sprinkling some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before baking. Parmesan adds a distinct sharp, salty flavor and develops a lovely crispy, golden crust when melted and browned. Alternatively, a blend of Mexican cheeses (like Monterey Jack or a Colby-Jack mix) would enhance the fajita theme. Want to lean further into Italian flavors with your creamy version? Add a sprinkle of dried basil, oregano, or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese for an even richer, spicier taste.
5. Add a Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, consider dicing and adding a jalapeño or serrano pepper along with the bell peppers. For a milder warmth, a pinch of cayenne pepper in the seasoning blend can do the trick.
6. Boost the Protein: While chicken breasts are lean, if you prefer, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a slightly richer flavor and even more tender texture. Just be mindful of potential changes in Weight Watchers points.

Expert Tips and Tricks for a Flawless Bell Pepper Chicken Casserole Every Time

While this Bell Pepper Chicken Casserole is inherently simple, a few expert tips and tricks can elevate your dish from good to absolutely outstanding. Pay attention to these details, and you’ll ensure a perfectly cooked, flavorful casserole every time:

1. Season Generously for Maximum Flavor: The seasoning is the heart and soul of this fajita-inspired casserole, so don’t be shy with it! It’s absolutely essential to the dish’s signature flavor profile. If you don’t have fajita seasoning readily available, a good quality taco seasoning works wonderfully as a substitute – they share many similar flavor components. The key is to ensure your chosen seasoning blend contains paprika. Without paprika, the chicken can sometimes look a bit pale even when fully cooked, visually impacting the appeal of the dish. If your blend is light on paprika, consider adding an extra half-teaspoon for a richer color and deeper flavor. For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the seasoning with a splash of lime juice for 15-30 minutes before baking.
2. Achieve Perfect Texture by Thinly Slicing Vegetables: The consistency of your vegetables significantly impacts the final outcome of the casserole. Thinly slicing the onions and bell peppers is crucial for several reasons: it helps them cook evenly alongside the chicken, ensures they soften up nicely to a tender-crisp consistency in the oven, and allows them to meld seamlessly with the other ingredients. If the pieces are too thick, they may still be crunchy and undercooked by the time your chicken is perfectly done. I always aim for uniform strips about ¼-inch thick for optimal results. A mandoline slicer can achieve this quickly and precisely, but a sharp knife and a steady hand work just as well.
3. Pre-Slice for Ultimate Convenience: Life gets busy, and sometimes every minute in the kitchen counts. If you’re in a hurry or simply want to streamline your cooking process, don’t hesitate to buy pre-sliced onions and bell peppers from the produce section of your grocery store. It’s a quick and efficient way to cut down on chopping and overall prep time, making this already easy recipe even simpler and perfect for those hectic weeknights. While I personally enjoy slicing mine fresh for the best flavor and texture, having a backup plan with pre-cut veggies is always a smart move.
4. Master the Two-Stage Baking with Foil: The use of aluminum foil is a game-changer for this casserole. When baking, always cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil for the initial 25 minutes of cooking time. This creates a steamy environment within the dish, which is vital for two reasons: it ensures the chicken steams and cooks through thoroughly without drying out, resulting in incredibly tender and moist meat, and it allows the vegetables to soften perfectly. Once this initial period is over, remove the foil for the remaining 10 minutes. This uncovered bake allows the cheese to melt into a bubbly, golden layer and the top of the vegetables to caramelize slightly, adding a beautiful texture and deeper flavor. This two-stage baking process gives you the best of both worlds – juicy chicken and perfectly cooked, slightly browned vegetables.
5. Prevent Dryness: Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Chicken breasts are wonderfully lean, but they can quickly become dry and rubbery if overcooked. To ensure your chicken remains tender and succulent, keep a close eye on the baking time. After the initial 25 minutes covered and the subsequent 10 minutes uncovered (totaling 35 minutes), check the chicken’s internal temperature. The safe internal temperature for cooked chicken is 165°F (74°C). Use a reliable meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the largest chicken breast. Once it reaches that temperature, your chicken is done! Resist the urge to bake it “just a little longer” if it’s already at temperature.

Storage and Reheating

This casserole is fantastic for meal prep! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave individual portions until hot, or for best results, cover the casserole dish with foil and reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if it seems a little dry.

Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal

While the casserole is a meal in itself, pairing it with complementary sides can elevate the dining experience. Consider serving it with:

• Warm tortillas or lettuce wraps for a more interactive fajita experience.
• Fluffy brown rice or quinoa for added fiber and carbs.
• A dollop of Greek yogurt or light sour cream.
• Fresh salsa or guacamole for extra zest.
• A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.

No ratings yet

Bell Pepper Chicken Casserole

Servings: 4

Prep: 10 minutes mins

Cook: 35 minutes mins

Total: 45 minutes mins

A simple and delicious Mexican-inspired chicken casserole, perfect for a healthy, easy weeknight meal. It delivers all the savory flavors of fajitas with minimal effort and is Weight Watchers friendly!

Ingredients 

• ▢ 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, about 600 g
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon salt
• ▢ 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• ▢ 1 garlic clove, minced
• ▢ 1 teaspoon olive oil
• ▢ 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• ▢ 1/2 large onion, thinly sliced (about 1/2 cup or 60 g)
• ▢ 1 large green bell pepper, sliced into strips (about 1 cup or 150 g)
• ▢ 1 large red bell pepper, sliced into strips (about 1 cup or 150 g)
• ▢ 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, 60 g

Cook ModePrevent your screen from going dark

Instructions 

• Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is at the optimal temperature for even baking from the moment your casserole goes in.
• Season the chicken: Place the chicken breasts on a clean cutting board. In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, minced garlic, taco seasoning, and cumin. Rub this flavorful blend thoroughly over all sides of the chicken breasts. Ensuring an even coat is key for maximum flavor infusion.
• Prepare the vegetables: Slice the onion and bell peppers into thin strips (julienne-style), approximately ¼-inch thick. This uniform slicing helps them cook evenly and tenderly.
• Arrange the casserole: In a 9×13-inch casserole dish, drizzle 1 teaspoon of olive oil (or use a non-stick cooking spray for a lighter option). Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom. Then, evenly layer the sliced onions and bell peppers on top of the chicken.
• Cover and bake: Cover the dish securely with aluminum foil. This traps steam, ensuring the chicken stays moist and the vegetables cook tenderly. Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes.
• Uncover and add cheese: After 25 minutes, carefully remove the casserole from the oven. Remove the aluminum foil and sprinkle 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the vegetables. Return the uncovered dish to the oven for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
• Check for doneness: To ensure food safety, verify that the chicken is fully cooked. Its internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer in the thickest part. If you don’t have a thermometer, slice into a chicken breast to confirm it’s no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear.
• Serve: Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the chicken juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and juicy meat. Serve 1/4 of the casserole per person and enjoy your flavorful, easy Bell Pepper Chicken Casserole!

Notes

This Bell Pepper Chicken Casserole is a fantastic option for those following Weight Watchers, coming in at just 2 SmartPoints per serving. It’s packed with lean protein and vibrant vegetables, making it a satisfying and healthy meal. Feel free to customize with additional zero-point veggies like mushrooms or spinach for even more nutritional benefits.

 

Nutrition

Serving: 262gCalories: 335kcalCarbohydrates: 5.9gProtein: 35gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 104mgSodium: 549mgPotassium: 366mgFiber: 0.6gSugar: 2.7gCalcium: 128mgIron: 1.2mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation. Variations in ingredients or cooking methods may affect nutritional values.

Additional Info

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Mexican

Tried this recipe?Mention @drizzlemeskinny or tag #drizzlemeskinny!