Cheesy Chicken Fajita Casserole: A One-Pan Dinner Packed with Flavor
Transform your favorite fajitas into a hearty, cheesy, and comforting dish with this Chicken Fajita Casserole! Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving bold Tex-Mex flavors, this casserole is loaded with juicy chicken, colorful bell peppers, and zesty seasonings—all baked under a blanket of melted cheese. It’s everything you love about fajitas, minus the tortillas, and made easy in one dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless: A one-pan meal that cuts down on cleanup.
- Bold Flavors: Classic fajita seasoning paired with salsa and sour cream ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
- Family-Friendly: Perfect for feeding a crowd, and it’s customizable to suit everyone’s taste.
- Versatile: Works as a main dish or as a side for larger gatherings.
Ingredients for Chicken Fajita Casserole
For the Casserole:
- 2 lbs chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 packet fajita seasoning
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Sliced jalapeños
- Lime wedges
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned and cooked through. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, sliced bell peppers, onion, fajita seasoning, salsa, sour cream, and cooked rice. Stir until everything is well coated.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese blend generously over the top.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh bell peppers and onions add vibrant flavors and texture to the dish.
- Customize Heat Levels: Choose mild or spicy salsa and adjust the amount of fajita seasoning based on your preference.
- Pre-Cook the Rice: Use fully cooked rice to save time and ensure the casserole isn’t watery.
- Add Crunch: Top with crushed tortilla chips for added texture before serving.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with black beans or sautéed mushrooms for a meatless version.
- Low-Carb Version: Skip the rice and use cauliflower rice instead.
- Add Beans: Stir in black beans or pinto beans for extra protein and flavor.
- Extra Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
Perfect Pairings
- Sides: Serve with tortilla chips and guacamole or a fresh green salad.
- Drinks: Pair with a refreshing margarita or an ice-cold Mexican beer.
- Dessert: Follow up with churros or flan for a sweet Tex-Mex finish.
Why This Casserole is a Winner
This Chicken Fajita Casserole brings together everything you love about fajitas into a warm, cheesy, and satisfying dish. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s perfect for feeding a family or entertaining friends. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable, so you can make it just the way you like it.