This easy chicken fajita casserole is a flavorful mix of tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and yummy cheese! It’s like a fiesta in a dish with all the tasty spices and a cheesy topping!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: I like using rotisserie chicken for this recipe, as it’s quick and full of flavor. If you want a lighter option, turkey or even canned chicken can work too. For a vegetarian twist, use beans or cooked lentils instead!
Bell Peppers: Red and green bell peppers give a nice color and sweetness. Feel free to use yellow or orange peppers if you prefer. You can also substitute with sliced mushrooms or zucchini for a different flavor!
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess to the casserole. Greek yogurt can be a great substitute if you’re looking for a healthier option. Just make sure to use plain yogurt to avoid any funky flavors.
Cheeses: Cheddar and Monterey Jack blend nicely together. If you’re dairy-free, try using vegan cheese shreds or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Can I Make Sure My Casserole Comes Out Perfectly?
To create a delicious casserole, follow these simple steps:
- **Cook the Vegetables Well:** Saute onions and bell peppers until soft to release their sweetness. This makes the dish extra flavorful!
- **Even Layering:** If you’re using tortilla chips or rice as a base, make sure it’s evenly spread to support the chicken mixture. This helps with even baking.
- **Don’t Overbake:** Keep an eye on your casserole in the oven. You want it to be bubbly and golden, not dry. Let it cool a bit before serving—it helps the layers set nicely.
With these tips, your chicken fajita casserole will definitely be a hit at the dinner table!
Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies (optional)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 (1 oz) packet fajita seasoning mix
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips or 1 cup cooked rice (optional base)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake, making a total of around 35-40 minutes. It’s quick enough for a tasty weeknight dinner, and the results are always satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your casserole will cook evenly and come out perfectly bubbly and golden.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and bell peppers. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they are softened. You’ll want them to be tender and fragrant!
3. Add Chicken and Seasoning:
Next, stir in the cooked chicken and the fajita seasoning mix. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, mixing everything well so that the flavors combine nicely.
4. Mix the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, half of the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, and the chicken and vegetable mixture. If you’re using green chilies, gently fold them in at this stage.
5. Prepare the Base (Optional):
If you’re using tortilla chips or cooked rice, spread them evenly at the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. This adds an extra tasty crunch or substance to the bottom layer.
6. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the chicken and vegetable mixture over the base, spreading it out evenly. Then, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. It’s time for that cheesy goodness!
7. Bake:
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set. Enjoy it topped with fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, a dollop of sour cream, or guacamole for that extra flair!
This cheesy, colorful, and satisfying chicken fajita casserole is perfect for a weeknight meal, and it’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table!
FAQ About Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken works great in this casserole. Just make sure it’s shredded or diced before adding it to the mix!
What If I Don’t Have Fajita Seasoning?
No worries! You can make a quick substitute by mixing equal parts of cumin, chili powder, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. Adjust to taste. DIY seasoning can really add a personal touch!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage and then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop it in the microwave or back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Enjoy your tasty leftovers!
