Flavorful Hasselback Fajita Stuffed Chicken: An Easy & Healthy Weeknight Meal (BBQ or Oven)
This Hasselback Fajita Stuffed Chicken recipe is a brilliant blend of vibrant bell peppers, zesty taco seasoning, and gooey Tex Mex cheese, creating a truly healthy and incredibly satisfying dinner idea that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you choose to grill it outdoors or bake it in the oven, this dish promises a burst of flavor in every bite, making it a standout meal for families and meal preppers alike.
Searching for a dinner that’s both exciting and easy to prepare? Look no further than this Hasselback Fajita Stuffed Chicken. This recipe transforms ordinary chicken breasts into an extraordinary meal using the clever Hasselback technique, allowing you to infuse them with an abundance of delicious fajita flavors. Imagine tender, juicy chicken filled with sweet bell peppers, seasoned perfectly, and topped with melted Tex Mex cheese – it’s a fiesta on a plate!
The beauty of Hasselback chicken lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. By making strategic slits in the chicken, you create pockets that can be generously filled with your chosen ingredients. This not only makes for a stunning presentation but also ensures that every piece of chicken is permeated with flavor. Paired with roasted sweet potatoes, this meal is a complete, well-balanced, and utterly delicious option for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy yet indulgent dinner.
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Ingredients and Smart Substitutions for Fajita Stuffed Chicken
Crafting the perfect Hasselback Fajita Stuffed Chicken starts with quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need, along with some handy substitutions to ensure your meal is always a success:
- Chicken Breasts: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Their uniform shape and thickness make them ideal for the Hasselback slicing technique, providing ample surface area for stuffing without falling apart. Thicker breasts (about 1.5 inches) work best, as thinner ones might not hold the stuffing as well.
- Olive Oil: A versatile kitchen staple. If olive oil isn’t on hand, any neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point will work well, such as grapeseed oil, avocado oil, or even vegetable oil.
- Fajita Seasoning: This spice blend is key to achieving that authentic Tex-Mex flavor. You can use your favorite store-bought fajita seasoning or easily whip up a batch of homemade fajita seasoning. Taco seasoning is also an excellent substitute and provides a very similar flavor profile.
- Bell Peppers (Red, Yellow, Green): Using a mix of bell pepper colors not only adds visual appeal but also a spectrum of subtly different flavors and nutrients. Feel free to use just one color if that’s what you have, or adjust the ratios based on your preference. Slice them very thinly for easy stuffing.
- Red Onion: Red onions offer a sharp, slightly sweet flavor that complements the peppers beautifully. White or yellow onions can be used as alternatives, though they might have a milder or stronger taste, respectively. Ensure they are also thinly sliced.
- Shredded Cheese: A Tex Mex shredded cheese blend is fantastic for its melty texture and complementary flavors. However, feel free to use your favorite shredded cheese! Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a sharp cheddar would all be delicious choices.
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a vibrant, herbaceous note that brightens the entire dish. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, simply omit it. You could also try a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a different fresh herb flavor.
- Salsa and Sour Cream: These are essential for serving, adding a creamy, tangy, and zesty finish to your fajita chicken. Guacamole or plain Greek yogurt (as a sour cream alternative) would also be delicious.
For the Roasted Sweet Potatoes (Optional Side):
- Olive Oil: As mentioned above, any neutral oil works.
- Sweet Potatoes: These roast beautifully and provide a naturally sweet counterpoint to the savory chicken. Russet potatoes, Yukon Golds, or even baby potatoes cut into quarters can be excellent substitutes, just ensure they are cut into even, 1-inch pieces for consistent cooking.
- Chili Powder: Adds a warm, earthy spice. Paprika (smoked or sweet), crushed chili flakes, or a pinch of cayenne pepper can be used if you don’t have chili powder.
- Paprika: Provides a mild sweetness and a beautiful red hue. Smoked paprika can add depth. Chili powder, cayenne, or a Cajun spice blend are good alternatives.
- Garlic Powder: A fundamental flavor enhancer. Garlic salt can be used, but remember to adjust the amount of added salt in the recipe accordingly. Fresh minced garlic (about 1-2 cloves per 2 tsp powder) can also be used.
- Salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors. Season to taste.
How to Prepare Hasselback Fajita Stuffed Chicken
Making this impressive Hasselback chicken is simpler than you might think. Follow these straightforward steps for a delicious meal:
- **Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:** Begin by preheating your oven and tossing the cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil and a blend of chili powder, paprika, and garlic powder. Roast them until they are tender and slightly caramelized, which usually takes about 25-30 minutes. This ensures they’re ready to serve alongside your chicken.
- **Master the Hasselback Cut & Stuff the Chicken:** While the sweet potatoes are roasting, prepare your chicken. Carefully make horizontal slits across each chicken breast, ensuring you don’t cut all the way through the bottom. These slits will create pockets for your stuffing. Rub the chicken generously with olive oil and fajita (or taco) seasoning, then meticulously tuck the thinly sliced bell peppers and red onions into each opening.
- **Cook the Stuffed Chicken:** Place the stuffed chicken breasts on a grill preheated to medium-high heat, or in a preheated oven at 450°F (230°C). Cook for approximately 15 minutes. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
- **Add the Cheese & Finish Cooking:** After the initial cooking time, remove the chicken from the heat (or oven) and generously sprinkle shredded Tex Mex cheese over each breast. Return to the grill or oven for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly.
- **Serve & Savor:** Once the cheese is perfectly melted, remove the chicken from the heat. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving alongside your roasted sweet potatoes. Garnish with fresh cilantro, salsa, and a dollop of sour cream for an ultimate Tex-Mex experience. Enjoy every flavorful bite!
Tips for Perfect Hasselback Chicken Every Time
Achieving perfectly cooked and beautifully stuffed Hasselback chicken is easy with a few simple tips:
- Even Slicing is Key: When making your slits, try to keep them evenly spaced and roughly ¾ of the way through the chicken breast. This ensures even cooking and prevents the chicken from falling apart. You can place chopsticks or wooden spoons on either side of the chicken breast to act as a guide and prevent you from cutting all the way through.
- Don’t Overstuff: While it’s tempting to load up those pockets, overstuffing can make the chicken difficult to cook evenly and can cause ingredients to fall out. A moderate amount of thinly sliced peppers and onions is usually enough.
- Season Generously: Don’t forget to season the outside of the chicken breasts as well as within the slits. This builds layers of flavor.
- Monitor Internal Temperature: The best way to ensure your chicken is cooked through and safe to eat is by using a meat thermometer. The thickest part of the chicken (avoiding bone if applicable) should read 165°F (74°C).
- Rest Before Serving: After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and moist final product.
More Delicious Side Dish Ideas
This Tex Mex inspired chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a wide array of side dishes. While the roasted sweet potatoes are a fantastic complement, here are some other ideas to round out your meal:
- **Homemade Fries:** Whether you prefer classic russet potato fries or the sweeter version made with sweet potatoes, a side of crispy fries is always a crowd-pleaser and a great textural contrast.
- **A Fresh Side Salad:** A simple salad made with crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing element to balance the rich flavors of the chicken and cheese.
- **Roasted or Steamed Vegetables:** Enhance your nutrient intake with additional roasted or steamed veggies like broccoli, asparagus, green beans, or corn. Season them simply with salt, pepper, and a dash of garlic powder.
- **Avocado Salad:** A creamy avocado salad featuring diced avocado, red onion, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice adds healthy fats and a cooling contrast.
- Classic Tex-Mex Toppings: Elevate the fajita experience with fresh Pico de Gallo, creamy Guacamole, or extra sour cream for dipping.
- Refried Beans: For a hearty and authentic touch, serve with a side of warm refried beans, either homemade or from a can.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hasselback Stuffed Chicken
Hasselback is a unique and visually appealing cooking method that originated in Sweden, traditionally used for potatoes. It involves making deep, parallel slits across an item without cutting all the way through. When applied to chicken breasts, this technique creates multiple pockets that can be filled with seasonings and ingredients, resulting in a dish that is not only packed with flavor but also boasts an elegant, fanned appearance. It’s a fantastic way to add moisture, flavor, and visual interest to a simple chicken breast.
The Hasselback method is arguably one of the easiest and most effective ways to stuff chicken. Unlike butterflying the chicken open like an envelope, which can sometimes lead to stuffing falling out or the chicken drying unevenly, the Hasselback technique creates secure pockets. This means your delicious fillings stay in place, infusing the chicken with flavor throughout the cooking process and ensuring a moist, flavorful result without the fuss.
This flavorful stuffed chicken recipe is surprisingly quick to prepare and cook. After the initial preparation, it only requires about 15 minutes of cooking time on the grill or in the oven. Once the chicken is nearly cooked through, you’ll add the cheese topping and bake or grill for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is perfectly melted and bubbly. The total active cooking time is approximately 20-25 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
Storing and Reheating Your Stuffed Chicken
This Hasselback Fajita Stuffed Chicken makes for fantastic leftovers! Any extra portions can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For best results, allow the chicken to cool down to room temperature before transferring it to your glass meal prep containers and refrigerating.
To reheat the chicken, placing it in an oven at 450° Fahrenheit (230°C) for 10-15 minutes is recommended to help crisp up the chicken and melt the cheese again. If you’re pressed for time, you can also use a microwave for 1-2 minutes. A helpful tip to prevent the chicken from drying out during reheating is to sprinkle a few drops of water over it before warming.
Freezing Stuffed Chicken for Later
Hasselback stuffed chicken is an excellent candidate for freezer meals, offering superb versatility. You can freeze it either raw or fully cooked, depending on your meal prep strategy.
To freeze, whether raw or cooked, ensure the chicken is tightly wrapped with plastic wrap to secure the delicious toppings. Then, place it into a freezer-safe meal prep container or a sturdy freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply cook the raw chicken following the instructions in the recipe card (allowing for a slightly longer cooking time if frozen), or reheat the thawed cooked chicken using the reheating instructions mentioned above.
Important Note: For this specific recipe, freezing leftovers after assembly might slightly compromise the texture of the bell peppers, as they tend to become softer once thawed. Therefore, if you plan to freeze, it might be best to freeze the chicken breasts prior to stuffing them with the peppers. This way, you can add fresh peppers and cheese when you’re ready to cook, ensuring the best possible texture and flavor.
Discover More Creative Hasselback Chicken Recipes
If you loved this Hasselback Fajita Stuffed Chicken, you’ll be excited to explore other variations of this fun and flavorful cooking technique. Here are a few more Hasselback chicken recipes to inspire your next healthy dinner:
- Pizza Stuffed Hasselback Chicken: All the beloved flavors of pizza packed into tender chicken breasts.
- Hasselback Baked Caprese Chicken: A delightful Italian-inspired dish featuring fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil.
- Hasselback Jalapeno Popper Chicken: For those who enjoy a bit of spice, this recipe delivers a creamy, spicy, and cheesy filling.
Essential Meal Prep Tools for This Recipe
Having the right tools can make your meal preparation smoother and more efficient. Here are a couple of recommendations to help you create this Hasselback Fajita Stuffed Chicken and other healthy meals:
- Store any leftovers safely and stylishly in these glass meal prep containers. They’re perfect for keeping your food fresh and making reheating a breeze.
- And of course, for high-quality, grass-fed poultry that tastes amazing in recipes like this, I always recommend sourcing from Butcher Box.
Hasselback Fajita Stuffed Chicken {BBQ + Oven}
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Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fajita or taco seasoning
- 1/2 each red, yellow and green pepper, very thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, very thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (I use the pre-shredded tex mex kind)
- Cilantro (optional for garnish)
- Salsa and sour cream (for serving)
Roasted sweet potatoes (optional side)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 sweet potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 2 tsp paprika
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 450 F (230°C). Toss sweet potatoes in olive oil and spices in a medium-sized ovensafe dish. Roast in oven for 25-30 min until tender.
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Preheat BBQ to med-high, or preheat oven to 450 F (230°C). Meanwhile, make horizontal cuts across each chicken breast (see video if you’re unsure how!) Rub chicken with olive oil and taco seasoning. Add bell peppers and red onions to each cut, then put each breast on the grill or in the oven.
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Cook chicken for 15 min. Remove and top with cheese, then grill or bake another 5 min until cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from heat and serve alongside sweet potatoes, topping with optional cilantro, salsa and sour cream. Enjoy!
Video
Notes
Make your own fajita seasoning using spices you already have on hand for a customizable flavor.
Serve with homemade fries, steamed veggies or a fresh side salad for a complete and balanced meal.
Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven for 10-15 minutes at 450° Fahrenheit (230°C) for best results or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, adding a splash of water to prevent drying.
You can freeze this stuffed chicken, but the bell peppers don’t defrost very well and can lose their texture. For optimal results, I suggest freezing the chicken before you stuff it, then add fresh peppers and cheese when you’re ready to cook.
Nutrition
