Introduction
Transform simple chicken and veggies into a sizzling, satisfying Chicken Fajita Casserole! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or potlucks. It’s all the flavor of fajitas, but with way less fuss—get ready for a fiesta in your oven!
Why This Works
This recipe is a winner because it’s incredibly easy, uses pantry staples, and everyone loves it! The combination of tender chicken, vibrant peppers and onions, and melty cheese is irresistible. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use leftover cooked chicken.
Key Ingredients
- 🐔 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 🫑 1 large green bell pepper, sliced
- 🧅 1 large onion, sliced
- 🌶️ 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 🧀 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 🧀 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 🥫 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel)
- 🌮 1 packet fajita seasoning
- 🌿 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 🍚 4 cups cooked rice
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2️⃣ In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sliced bell peppers, sliced onion, Rotel, and fajita seasoning. Mix well to coat everything evenly.
3️⃣ Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
4️⃣ Sprinkle the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the chicken mixture.
5️⃣ Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden brown.
6️⃣ Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh cilantro.
7️⃣ Serve hot over cooked rice. Enjoy!
Handy Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in fajita seasoning before cooking.
- If you don’t have Rotel, you can use a combination of diced tomatoes and chopped jalapeños.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, like mushrooms or zucchini.
Heat Control
The oven temperature of 350°F (175°C) is perfect for melting the cheese and heating through the chicken and vegetables without burning them. Don’t overbake, or the casserole will dry out.
Crunch Factor
While this casserole isn’t particularly crunchy, the slight crispiness of the slightly browned cheese on top adds a nice textural contrast to the soft chicken and vegetables.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- Use rotisserie chicken for an even faster meal!
- Add a layer of your favorite tortilla chips to the bottom of the baking dish for extra crunch.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture.
Storage Tips
Store leftover Chicken Fajita Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This casserole is perfect for potlucks and sharing! Package individual portions in disposable foil pans, or assemble the casserole in a pretty baking dish and cover it with foil.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy Fiesta: Add a diced jalapeño pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the chicken mixture.
🌟 Creamy Chicken Fajita Casserole: Stir in 1/2 cup of sour cream or Mexican crema before baking.
🌟 Black Bean Boost: Add 1 (15 ounce) can of black beans, drained and rinsed, to the chicken mixture.
🌟 Cheesy Supreme: Use a blend of your favorite cheeses – pepper jack, queso fresco, or even some shredded Mexican cheese blend would be delicious!
Troubleshooting
- Casserole is dry: Next time, add a little more Rotel or a splash of chicken broth to the chicken mixture. You could also cover the casserole with foil for the first 15 minutes of baking.
- Cheese isn’t melting: Make sure your oven is at the correct temperature. Also, ensure the cheese is properly shredded – clumps won’t melt as evenly.
- Chicken is overcooked: If using pre-cooked chicken, reduce baking time to avoid drying it out.
FAQ
- Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake. You may need to add a few minutes to the baking time.
- Can I use different types of chicken? Yes, you can use leftover grilled chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even leftover cooked chicken thighs.
- What kind of rice works best? Long-grain white rice or Mexican rice are both excellent choices.
Conclusion
This Chicken Fajita Casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! It’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and utterly delicious. Share this recipe with your friends and family, and let the fiesta begin! We’d love to see your photos – share them with us on social media!
One-Pan Chicken Fajita Fiesta
A vibrant and easy one-pan meal featuring seasoned chicken, colorful bell peppers, and onions, all cooked together for a fiesta of flavors.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 lime, juiced
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Tortillas for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200u00b0C.
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced chicken, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until the chicken is evenly coated.
- Spread the seasoned chicken in a single layer on a large baking sheet.
- Add the sliced bell peppers and onion around the chicken on the baking sheet.
- Drizzle the lime juice over the chicken and vegetables.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve warm with tortillas and garnish with fresh cilantro.
Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the spice mixture for a few hours before cooking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or corn for variety.