Fajita Chicken Casserole Recipe
Introduction
This Fajita Chicken Casserole is a quick and flavorful dish that brings the vibrant taste of fajitas into a comforting baked meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 2 bell peppers, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons fajita seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the chicken strips, sliced bell peppers, sliced onion, and fajita seasoning. Toss everything evenly to coat.
- Step 2: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Spread it out evenly and sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lime juice over the casserole before baking.
- Use a mix of colored bell peppers for a more vibrant dish.
- Swap chicken breasts for thighs if you prefer darker meat with more moisture.
- Serve with warm tortillas and salsa for a complete fajita experience.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave until heated through. The casserole may dry out slightly, so cover with foil when reheating in the oven.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture and assemble the casserole a few hours or the night before. Keep it covered in the refrigerator and bake just before serving.
What can I use if I don’t have fajita seasoning?
You can make your own seasoning by mixing chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in equal parts to taste.
PrintFajita Chicken Casserole Recipe
This Fajita Chicken Casserole is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish combining tender chicken breast with sautéed bell peppers and onions, seasoned with bold fajita spices, and topped with melted cheese for a deliciously satisfying meal perfect for a family dinner or meal prep.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 2 large chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons fajita seasoning
Cheese Topping
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips for even cooking. Slice the bell peppers and onion into thin strips to complement the fajita style.
- Combine Chicken and Vegetables with Seasoning: In a large mixing bowl, toss the sliced chicken, bell peppers, and onions with the fajita seasoning until everything is evenly coated. This will infuse the ingredients with the classic fajita flavor.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the seasoned chicken and vegetable mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Add Cheese Topping: Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over the top of the chicken and vegetables. This creates a cheesy, bubbly crust once baked.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs well with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- For extra heat, add sliced jalapeños to the vegetable mix before baking.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for a juicier alternative.
- Use a combination of cheeses for a richer flavor or meltability.
- This casserole can be prepped a day ahead and refrigerated before baking.
- Leftovers keep well and reheat nicely in the microwave or oven.
Keywords: fajita chicken casserole, chicken casserole, baked fajita chicken, Tex-Mex casserole, cheesy chicken bake
