Chicken Fajita Casserole

Short Description

Chicken Fajita Casserole is a delicious, comforting dish that combines the flavors of classic fajitas with the ease of a baked casserole. Packed with tender chicken, bell peppers, onions, and melted cheese, this one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights. With bold Tex-Mex seasoning and a creamy texture, this dish is both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With minimal prep and one baking dish, this recipe simplifies traditional fajitas.
• Rich in Flavor: Bold spices, fresh vegetables, and cheesy goodness create a deliciously satisfying meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This casserole stores and reheats well, making it ideal for leftovers.
• Family-Friendly: The cheesy, savory combination is a hit with both kids and adults.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level, swap ingredients, or make it keto-friendly with simple tweaks.

Ingredients

chicken breast or thighs
bell peppers (red, yellow, green)
onion
cream cheese
shredded cheese (cheddar, Mexican blend, or mozzarella)
garlic powder
onion powder
chili powder
paprika
cumin
salt and pepper
olive oil
lime juice
sour cream (optional, for serving)
cilantro (optional, for garnish)
tortilla chips or rice (optional, for serving)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a casserole dish.
2. Prepare Chicken: Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, season with garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, and lime juice.
3. Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced bell peppers and onions, cooking until slightly softened.
4. Combine Ingredients: In the greased casserole dish, spread the seasoned chicken evenly. Add the sautéed vegetables on top.
5. Add Creaminess: Cut cream cheese into small cubes and distribute it throughout the dish.
6. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top, ensuring even coverage.
7. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly.
8. Serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with cilantro and serve with sour cream, tortilla chips, or rice if desired.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or extra chili powder for more heat.
• Low-Carb Option: Skip the tortilla chips and serve with cauliflower rice.
• Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp or beef strips for a different take.
• Extra Veggies: Include mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Use a dairy-free cheese substitute and coconut cream instead of cream cheese.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4-6

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a tightly sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave in 30-second increments or bake at 350°F until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Shred rotisserie chicken and mix it with the seasonings before assembling the casserole. Reduce baking time to 15-20 minutes.

What cheese works best for this casserole?

Cheddar, Mexican blend, or mozzarella all melt beautifully and complement the flavors well.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Is this dish spicy?

Not necessarily. The level of spice depends on the seasonings used. Adjust to taste.

Can I use frozen peppers and onions?

Absolutely! Just thaw and drain excess liquid before adding them to the casserole.

How do I make it creamier?

Increase the amount of cream cheese or add a splash of heavy cream.

What can I serve with this casserole?

It pairs well with rice, tortillas, or a side of beans for a complete meal.

Can I add beans to this recipe?

Yes! Black beans or pinto beans add texture and protein.

How do I prevent the cheese from burning?

If the cheese browns too quickly, loosely cover the casserole with foil while baking.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but use a larger baking dish and adjust baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

Chicken Fajita Casserole is the ultimate fusion of fajita flavors and casserole convenience. It’s a perfect meal for busy nights, meal prep, or feeding a crowd. With its cheesy, flavorful goodness, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your home. Try it today and enjoy a delicious, fuss-free dinner!

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