Easy Tex-Mex Fajita Chicken Casserole Recipe for Dinner Joy

Whipping up a delectable fajita chicken casserole brings zesty southwestern flavors right to your dinner table.

Peppers and onions dance alongside tender chicken in this one-pan marvel.

Layers of melted cheese create a golden, bubbling landscape of comfort.

Spices infuse each bite with authentic mexican warmth and depth.

Quick preparation means you can have a satisfying meal ready in under an hour.

Creamy textures and bold seasonings combine for a crowd-pleasing dish that feels like a fiesta.

Dive into this mouthwatering casserole and let the culinary adventure begin!

Why Fajita Chicken Casserole Is a Flavor-Packed Dinner

• Speed Up Dinner: A one-pan wonder that transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal faster than traditional cooking methods.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Packed with classic Tex-Mex flavors that appeal to both kids and adults, making it perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.
• Flexible Ingredient Magic: Easily adaptable recipe that welcomes leftover chicken, different types of salsa, or vegetable variations without compromising taste quality.
• Budget-Friendly Feast: Combines affordable ingredients like chicken, rice, and common pantry staples into a satisfying dish that stretches your grocery budget while delivering maximum flavor.

Ingredients for Fajita Chicken Casserole

• Chicken: Shredded protein that provides the primary flavor and substance of the casserole.
• Rice: Cooked grain that adds texture and makes the dish more filling.
• Bell Pepper: Colorful vegetable that brings crunch and sweet flavor to the casserole.
• Onion: Aromatic vegetable that adds depth and savory notes to the dish.

• Sour Cream: Creamy ingredient that adds richness and tanginess to the casserole.
• Shredded Cheese: Melty topping that creates a golden, gooey texture and adds cheesy flavor.

• Fajita Seasoning, Salsa: Spicy and zesty components that give the casserole its Mexican-inspired taste profile.
• Olive Oil: Cooking fat used to sauté vegetables and provide a smooth base for the dish.
• Cilantro: Optional fresh herb that can be used as a garnish for added brightness.
• Tortilla Chips: Optional side that complements the casserole's flavors.

How to Bake a Delicious Fajita Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 375F (190C). Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and give it a quick spray or butter rub to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Sizzle the Veggies

• Bell peppers
• Onions

Cook these colorful friends until they’re soft and slightly golden, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Mix the Magic

• Shredded chicken
• Cooked rice
• Fajita seasoning
• Sour cream
• Salsa
• Sauteed vegetables
• Half of the shredded cheese

Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and looks like a party in a bowl.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish.

Spread it evenly like you’re creating a delicious landscape. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top for a golden, melty crown.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese transforms into a bubbly, golden masterpiece.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Pull out your creation and let it rest for a moment. Serve hot and fabulous.

Want extra pizzazz? Sprinkle some fresh cilantro on top or add a dollop of sour cream.

Grab some tortilla chips or a crisp salad on the side for the ultimate meal.

Tips for Spicy and Tasty Fajita Chicken Casserole

• Swap rotisserie chicken for a quicker meal prep and save time in the kitchen.
• Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice to create a low-carb version that's equally delicious.
• Experiment with different cheese blends like pepper jack or Mexican cheese mix for extra flavor complexity.
• Add a protein boost by mixing in black beans or diced jalapeños for more texture and heat.
• Prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate overnight, then bake when ready to serve for convenient meal planning.

Variations to Try with Fajita Chicken Casserole

• Vegetarian Fiesta: Replace chicken with black beans or tofu, using vegetable broth for added flavor. Perfect for plant-based eaters seeking a protein-packed meal.
• Seafood Southwest: Swap chicken with cooked shrimp or white fish, adding a marine twist to the classic fajita casserole. Brings coastal flavors to your dinner table.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Craze: Substitute rice with cauliflower rice, reducing carbohydrates while maintaining the bold fajita taste. Great for keto and low-carb diet followers.
• Spicy Green Chile Edition: Incorporate roasted green chiles and pepper jack cheese for an extra kick of heat. Adds a zesty southwestern punch to the original recipe.

What Pairs Best with Fajita Chicken Casserole

• Pair Zesty Margaritas: Complement the spicy fajita flavors with a classic lime margarita that cuts through the rich, creamy casserole and refreshes the palate.
• Serve Fresh Pico de Gallo: Top the casserole with homemade pico de gallo, adding bright, tangy notes that balance the warm, cheesy dish and provide a crisp contrast.
• Enjoy Mexican Street Corn: Grill corn on the cob with chili powder, lime, and cotija cheese as a perfect side that echoes the Tex-Mex flavor profile of the casserole.
• Add Crisp Green Salad: Create a light green salad with avocado, cucumber, and a cilantro-lime vinaigrette to cut through the richness and add a fresh, zesty element.

How to Store Fajita Chicken Casserole Safely

Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Refrigerated casserole stays fresh for 3-4 days.

Wrap tightly in freezer-safe container or heavy-duty aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with date for tracking.

Preheat oven to 350F. Cover casserole with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165F.

Place portion on microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each. Add small splash of water to maintain moisture and prevent cheese from becoming rubbery.

FAQs

• What are the key ingredients in Fajita Chicken Casserole?

The key ingredients include shredded chicken, bell peppers, onions, rice, fajita seasoning, sour cream, salsa, and shredded cheese.

• Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes, this casserole is perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time, refrigerate, and reheat for an easy weeknight dinner.

• Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option and adds extra flavor to the casserole.

• How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add diced jalapeños, use a hot salsa, or increase the amount of fajita seasoning to kick up the heat level.

Fajita Chicken Casserole Recipe

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4.7 from 14 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Spicy Mexican Fajita Chicken Casserole brings zesty southwest flavors to dinner tables with minimal effort. Cheesy layers of tender chicken, bell peppers, and robust seasonings promise a delightful meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1 pound (454 grams) chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) cooked rice
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Vegetables and Seasonings:

• 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 packet (28 grams) fajita seasoning mix
• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil

Sauce and Condiments:

• 1 cup (240 milliliters) sour cream
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) salsa

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 375F (190C) and lightly coat a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium temperature, sautéing bell peppers and onions until they soften and become translucent, approximately 5 minutes.
3. Blend shredded chicken, cooked rice, fajita seasoning, sour cream, and salsa in a spacious mixing bowl, ensuring all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
4. Fold the sautéed vegetables into the chicken mixture, creating a cohesive blend of flavors and textures.
5. Distribute half of the shredded cheese into the mixture, stirring gently to incorporate.
6. Pour the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the surface.
7. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top, creating a complete coverage.
8. Slide the casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese melts completely and develops a golden, bubbly crust.
9. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to settle.
10. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and serve with tortilla chips or a crisp side salad for a complete meal.

Notes

• Customize the heat level by adjusting the fajita seasoning or adding diced jalapeños for extra spiciness.
• Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy protein shortcut that saves preparation time.
• Make it gluten-free by ensuring the fajita seasoning and salsa are certified gluten-free and using cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice.
• Prep this dish ahead of time by assembling everything except the cheese topping, then refrigerate and add cheese just before baking for maximum freshness.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 489 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 680 mg
• Fat: 29 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
• Trans Fat: 0.3 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg