Chicken Fajita Casserole: A Flavorful, Comforting Dinner

When you’re craving the vibrant flavors of fajitas but need the convenience of a casserole, this Chicken Fajita Casserole is the perfect solution.

Packed with tender chicken strips, colorful bell peppers, onions, and a creamy cheese topping, this dish brings all the deliciousness of traditional fajitas into a comforting, easy-to-make casserole.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a make-ahead meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

Ingredients to Prepare

For the Casserole:

• 2 lb chicken breasts, cut into strips
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 packet fajita seasoning
• 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
• 1 cup salsa
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 tbsp olive oil

How to Make Chicken Fajita Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures that your casserole will cook evenly and the cheese will melt perfectly.
2. Grease the Baking Dish:
   Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or a bit of olive oil. This step prevents the casserole from sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Vegetables

3. Heat the Olive Oil:
   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough to sear the chicken without burning it.
4. Cook the Chicken Strips:
   Add the chicken strips to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are browned and no longer pink in the center.
   Cooking Tip: To ensure the chicken cooks evenly, avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook in batches if necessary.
5. Add the Vegetables:
   Once the chicken is cooked, add the sliced red, yellow, and green bell peppers, along with the onion, to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Season the Mixture:
   Sprinkle the fajita seasoning over the chicken and vegetable mixture, stirring well to coat everything evenly. This seasoning adds the classic fajita flavor to the dish.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

7. Spread the Cooked Rice:
   In your prepared baking dish, spread the cooked rice evenly across the bottom. The rice adds a hearty base to the casserole and soaks up all the delicious juices.
8. Layer the Chicken and Vegetables:
   Spoon the chicken and vegetable mixture over the rice, spreading it out to create an even layer.
   Helpful Tip: For extra flavor, you can add a layer of black beans or corn on top of the rice before adding the chicken and vegetables.
9. Add the Salsa and Sour Cream:
   Pour the salsa over the chicken and vegetables, spreading it evenly with a spoon. Then, dollop the sour cream over the salsa. The salsa adds a tangy kick, while the sour cream brings a creamy richness to the dish.
10. Top with Cheese:
    Sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese blend over the entire casserole. This cheese layer will melt beautifully, creating a gooey, bubbly topping.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

11. Bake the Casserole:
    Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
    Baking Tip: If you prefer a golden-brown crust, you can broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning.
12. Cool and Serve:
    Once the casserole is done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to slice and serve.
13. Garnish and Enjoy:
    Garnish with fresh cilantro, chopped green onions, or a squeeze of lime juice for a burst of freshness. Serve with a side of guacamole, extra sour cream, or tortilla chips for added texture and flavor.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g

Substitutions and Variations

Protein Alternatives:

• Ground Beef or Turkey:
  If you’re looking for a different protein, ground beef or turkey can easily be substituted for chicken. Cook it the same way as the chicken, breaking it up into crumbles as it browns.
• Vegetarian Option:
  For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with a mix of black beans, pinto beans, and corn. You can also add tofu or tempeh for a protein boost.

Related Recipes:

• Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings
• Savory Spaghetti Meat Sauce recipe
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
• Bacon Cheeseburger Bombs

Cheese Choices:

• Different Cheeses:
  Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a spicy pepper jack cheese can add different flavors and textures to your casserole.

Spice Level:

• Adjusting Heat:
  If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding sliced jalapeños or using a spicier salsa. For a milder version, opt for mild salsa and reduce the fajita seasoning.

Additional Ingredients:

• Extra Vegetables:
  Add more veggies to the mix, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach, for added nutrition and flavor.
• Tortilla Chip Topping:
  For an added crunch, sprinkle crushed tortilla chips over the cheese before baking.

Storage and Leftovers

Storing Leftovers:

• Refrigeration:
  Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to meld together even more after sitting, making for delicious leftovers.

Freezing:

• Freezing for Later:
  This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating:

• Reheating Instructions:
  Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or reheat the entire casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use leftover chicken?

Yes, this casserole is a great way to use up leftover cooked chicken. Simply shred or chop the chicken and follow the recipe as directed, skipping the step where you cook the raw chicken.

What can I serve with Chicken Fajita Casserole?

This dish is hearty enough to be served on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a side of guacamole, a simple green salad, or even some warm tortillas on the side.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if necessary.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, substitute the cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative and use dairy-free sour cream. The results will be just as delicious!

Is it possible to make this casserole low-carb?

Yes, you can make a low-carb version by omitting the rice and replacing it with cauliflower rice. This will lower the carb count while still providing a similar texture.

Conclusion

Chicken Fajita Casserole is a versatile, flavorful dish that brings the bold flavors of fajitas into a convenient, family-friendly meal. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or looking for a meal that will provide leftovers for the week, this casserole is an excellent choice.

With the ability to customize ingredients and make it ahead of time, it’s a go-to recipe that’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Serve it with your favorite toppings and sides, and enjoy the comfort and satisfaction of this easy-to-make dish!

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