This Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole is packed with tasty chicken, colorful bell peppers, and zesty spices, all baked in one dish. It’s filling and oh-so-satisfying!
You might want to make extra, as everyone will love it! I often serve it with some sour cream on top. Trust me, it takes this dish to another level of yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Using shredded or diced chicken breast is great for flavor. You can also use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. Leftover turkey or even tofu works well for a vegetarian version!
Bell Peppers: Red and green peppers add color and sweetness. Feel free to swap them with yellow or orange peppers, or add in some jalapeños for extra heat if you like it spicy.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess to the casserole. You can substitute plain Greek yogurt for a healthier choice or use dairy-free sour cream for a lighter option.
Cheese: Cheddar and Monterey Jack blend beautifully! You can use any cheese you prefer, like Pepper Jack for some spice or a dairy-free alternative if needed.
Tortillas: Small flour tortillas provide a lovely base. Corn tortillas can be used as a gluten-free option, just be sure to use the right amount!
What’s the Best Way to Prepare Your Vegetables?
For this casserole, the vegetables should be sautéed before adding them in. This step not only softens the veggies but also enhances their flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Keep an eye on them; you want them tender but not mushy!
This technique helps release the natural sweetness in the veggies, making the dish even more delicious!
Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel), drained
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 packet fajita seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 8 small flour tortillas, cut into strips or bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- Optional: chopped green onions or fresh cilantro for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy Chicken Fajita Casserole will take about 15 minutes for preparation and another 20-25 minutes for baking. Including cooling time, you’ll be enjoying this delicious dish in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly cooked.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they start to soften and become fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking!
3. Combine Chicken and Seasoning:
Next, add the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the fajita seasoning mix and the drained diced tomatoes with green chilies. Stir thoroughly to combine everything and heat through for 3-4 minutes.
4. Mix the Creamy Layer:
In a large bowl, mix the sour cream with half of the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese. This creamy layer is what makes the casserole rich and delicious.
5. Combine Everything:
Add the chicken and vegetable mixture into the sour cream and cheese mixture. Stir well to combine, making sure everything is evenly coated and mixed.
6. Add the Tortillas:
Gently fold in the cut tortilla pieces into the mixture until they are well-coated. This adds a great texture to the dish!
7. Pour into Baking Dish:
Pour the entire mixture into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.
8. Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly on top. This will create a deliciously cheesy crust as it bakes!
9. Bake:
Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. You want it to be heated thoroughly and for the cheese to be melted and bubbly.
10. Cool and Serve:
Once done, carefully remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This will make it easier to serve.
11. Garnish and Enjoy:
Optionally, sprinkle chopped green onions or fresh cilantro on top before serving. Enjoy your warm Chicken Fajita Casserole with sides like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for a delightful meal!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to fully thaw it before cooking. For quick thawing, place sealed chicken in a bowl of cold water for about an hour, or you can thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture. You can also opt for a spicier fajita seasoning mix or use Pepper Jack cheese instead of regular cheese for an extra kick!
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking, then proceed with the baking instructions.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
