This Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole is a tasty twist on classic fajitas! It features juicy chicken, colorful bell peppers, and a sprinkle of cheese—all baked to perfection.
It’s super easy to whip up. I love just layering the ingredients and letting the oven do all the work. Plus, who doesn’t love a meal that’s both hearty and cheesy? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken works great here! It’s already cooked and tasty. If you’re vegetarian, consider using black beans or grilled portobello mushrooms for protein.
Bell Peppers: A mix of colors brightens up the dish. Don’t have all three? Any color of bell pepper or even zucchini and corn can be used for variety.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess. If you want a lighter option, try Greek yogurt instead. It will add a nice tangy flavor too!
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are traditional, but corn tortillas can be a gluten-free swap. Also, feel free to use tortilla chips for a crunchy layer!
Fajita Seasoning: You can use taco seasoning if you don’t have fajita seasoning. Or, mix a bit of chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder for a homemade version!
How Can I Sauté My Veggies Perfectly?
Sautéing the bell peppers and onions is key to adding flavor. Follow these tips:
- Heat the skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil before adding the veggies.
- Cook until they’re tender, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of salt while cooking to help draw out moisture.
This simple step makes your casserole taste fresh and vibrant! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 3 bell peppers (red, green, yellow), diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 packet fajita seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 8-10 small flour tortillas, cut into strips
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to bake, making a total of 45 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner when you’re short on time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready when your casserole is assembled. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced bell peppers and onions, sautéing them until they are softened, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the skillet from heat and set it aside.
3. Mix the Creamy Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your softened cream cheese, sour cream, and fajita seasoning mix. Use a spatula or whisk to mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Add the shredded chicken, sautéed peppers and onions, and the drained diced tomatoes with green chilies into the cream cheese mixture. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, ensuring the chicken and veggies are coated with the creamy mixture.
5. Season and Layer:
Sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste. Next, layer half of the tortilla strips in the bottom of your prepared casserole dish. Pour half of the chicken fajita mixture over the tortilla strips, spreading it evenly across the dish.
6. Cheese It Up:
Now, sprinkle a generous layer of both cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the first layer. Repeat the layering process with the remaining tortilla strips and top with the rest of the chicken mixture, finishing it off with the remaining cheese.
7. Bake the Casserole:
Cover the casserole with foil to start. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s done, let your casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows it to set a bit, making it easier to serve. Enjoy your warm, cheesy chicken fajita casserole with family or friends!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken will work perfectly. Just shred it and use it in the casserole for added convenience.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the chicken with black beans, quinoa, or grilled vegetables. You can also add more cheese and omit the meat to keep it hearty and satisfying!
What Can I Serve with This Casserole?
This casserole is delicious on its own, but you can pair it with a simple green salad, guacamole, or sour cream on the side for extra flavor!
