This Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole is a warm and tasty dish that combines chicken, colorful peppers, and cheese all in one pan. It’s like a fiesta on your plate!
Who doesn’t love a one-pan meal? Just mix everything together, pop it in the oven, and relax. This is perfect for busy nights when you need a quick and yummy dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or leftover chicken from a previous meal. If you’re vegetarian, consider using black beans or quinoa as a protein alternative.
Bell Peppers: The colorful mixture of red and green brings freshness. If you prefer, you can use yellow or orange peppers, or even canned or frozen peppers if fresh ones aren’t available.
Taco Seasoning: Store-bought is quick and easy, but you can make your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika. Adjust it to your spice preference!
Sour Cream: If you’re looking for a lighter version, plain Greek yogurt makes a great substitute. It’s creamy and packed with protein.
How Do You Ensure a Creamy and Flavorful Casserole?
The key to a creamy and tasty casserole lies in the layering and mixing of ingredients. Begin by sautéing your onions and peppers until they’re soft; this enhances their flavor. When mixing sour cream and cheese, make sure everything is evenly combined for consistent creaminess throughout.
- Combine the chicken with spices before adding to other ingredients for maximum flavor.
- For extra moisture, consider adding a bit of the optional diced tomatoes, which adds juiciness.
Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
- 1 packet taco seasoning or fajita seasoning
- 1 (10 oz) can of diced tomatoes (optional for more moisture)
- 8-10 small flour tortillas, torn or chopped into pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil or cooking oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then about 25-30 minutes to bake. Including resting time, you’re looking at around 50 minutes from start to serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready for the casserole.
2. Sautéing the Veggies:
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and bell peppers. Sauté them until they’re soft and slightly caramelized. This should take about 5-7 minutes, making your kitchen smell amazing!
3. Combine Chicken and Seasoning:
Once the veggies are ready, add the cooked chicken and taco seasoning to the skillet. Stir everything together, ensuring that the chicken and veggies are well-coated in the seasoning. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to let the flavors mingle.
4. Mix the Creamy Layer:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, drained diced tomatoes with green chilies, and half of the shredded cheese. Mix these ingredients until they are well-combined and creamy.
5. Combine Ingredients:
Add the chicken and veggie mixture into the bowl with the creamy layer. Stir everything together until it’s evenly mixed.
6. Prepare the Casserole Dish:
Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
7. Assemble the Casserole:
Start by spreading a layer of the torn or chopped flour tortilla pieces on the bottom of the greased casserole dish. Then, pour half of the chicken and vegetable mixture on top of the tortillas, spreading it out evenly.
8. Add Another Layer:
Add another layer of torn tortillas, followed by the remaining chicken mixture on top. This layering ensures every bite is flavorful!
9. Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the casserole top to create a cheesy, golden crust when it bakes.
10. Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Rest and Serve:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps everything set and makes it easier to cut portions.
12. Enjoy!
Serve your easy Chicken Fajita Casserole with optional toppings like additional sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for an added kick. Enjoy this delightful and satisfying dish!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken works perfectly in this casserole, saving you time and making it even easier to prepare.
What Can I Use Instead of Flour Tortillas?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, corn tortillas can be used instead. You can also try using tortilla chips for a fun twist, just be mindful of adjusting the bake time.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking it. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then follow the baking instructions as usual!
