Name: Chicken Fajita Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 4 cups shredded cooked chicken (about 2 large breasts); 2 cups instant rice; 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup; 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup frozen diced onion and bell pepper blend; 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with chilies, undrained; 1 1/2 cups chicken broth; 1 (1.12-ounce) packet fajita seasoning (recommend McCormick); 1 (8-ounce) package shredded Mexican blend cheese (about 2 cups)

Jump to Recipe· 4.5 from 688 reviews

If you’re in search of a meal that’s both comforting and loaded with flavor, the Chicken Fajita Casserole is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. This dish is a vibrant medley of tender chicken, zesty fajita seasoning, and creamy textures, all wrapped up in a single, easy-to-bake casserole. Not only is it a mouthwatering masterpiece, but it’s also a practical choice for busy weeknights when you crave something deliciously satisfying yet straightforward to prepare. Trust me, once you try this delightful combination of bold flavors and hearty ingredients, you’ll want to serve it up for every occasion that calls for a comforting culinary hug.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

All-in-One Delight: This Chicken Fajita Casserole combines all your favorite fajita flavors into one easy dish.
Easy to Adapt: Customize this recipe with whatever veggies or ingredients you have on hand.
Ideal for Meal Prep: It’s perfect for making ahead and reheats beautifully for leftovers.
Family Favorite: The cheesy goodness and Mexican-inspired flavors make it a hit with kids and adults alike.

Chicken Fajita Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Chicken Fajita Casserole lies in its simplicity and the way the ingredients come together to create magic. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering flavors that are rich and satisfying, offering a vibrant taste and texture. Let’s dive into this delightful gathering of essentials that transform into a masterpiece with a little help from your oven.

Shredded Cooked Chicken: Provides the hearty base that absorbs all the delicious flavors.
Instant Rice: Helps create a satisfying texture that perfectly complements the other ingredients.
Cream of Chicken Soup: Adds creamy richness that binds everything together.
Sour Cream: Contributes a tangy creaminess for balance.
Frozen Diced Onion and Bell Pepper Blend: Boosts both color and flavor with ease.
Diced Tomatoes with Chilies: Offers a spicy kick and juicy freshness.
Chicken Broth: Infuses moisture and depth of flavor into the dish.
Fajita Seasoning: Brings the bold, smoky fajita essence we all love.
Shredded Mexican Blend Cheese: Melts perfectly to create a gooey, cheesy top layer.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

This Chicken Fajita Casserole is incredibly forgiving and versatile, allowing you to personalize it according to your taste or dietary needs. Whether you’re aiming for a vegetarian twist or adding extra proteins, the adaptability of this dish is unmatched. Dive into these variation ideas to make it your own.

Vegetarian Version: Swap out the chicken for black beans or chickpeas for a plant-based delight.
Extra Spicy: Add some jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to amp up the heat.
Low-Carb: Substitute cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option that still provides great texture.
Cheesy Twist: For cheese lovers, incorporate additional cheese types like cheddar or pepper jack for extra flavor depth.

How to Make Chicken Fajita Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures it’s ready to embrace your casserole at the perfect moment, leading to a perfectly cooked dish. While the oven warms up, you can focus on preparing the rest of your ingredients.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, uncooked rice, cream of chicken, sour cream, and the onion and bell pepper blend. Add in the diced tomatoes with chilies, chicken broth, and your fajita seasoning. Stir until every ingredient becomes friends with another, creating a harmonious mix of bold flavors.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Pour your mixed masterpiece into a lightly greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly to ensure each bite delivers a balanced taste experience. Wrap the dish tightly in aluminum foil and pop it into the oven. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and everything is cooked through.

Step 4: Cheese it Up

Remove the dish from the oven and reveal the sizzling contents. Top with the remaining cheese, then return the dish to the oven without the aluminum foil. Allow it to bake until the cheese melts into a dreamy, golden topping. Enjoy the aroma wafting through your kitchen, building anticipation for the first bite.

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Fajita Casserole

Enhanced Flavor: Marinade the chicken in fajita seasoning overnight for an extra burst of flavor.
Rice Perfection: Make sure to evenly distribute the rice in the casserole to guarantee it cooks properly and evenly.
Cheese Selection: Opt for freshly shredded cheese as it melts better compared to pre-packaged varieties.
Vegetable Boost: Toss in some additional veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for extra nutrition and variety.

How to Serve Chicken Fajita Casserole

Garnishes

For a burst of freshness, top your Chicken Fajita Casserole with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and diced avocado. Add a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lime juice to enhance the flavors with a crisp finish. These garnishes not only elevate the taste but also add a pop of color to your presentation.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed veggies, adding balance and freshness to your meal. If you’re looking for a more hearty side, consider serving it alongside refried beans or a warm stack of tortillas. These additions complement the casserole’s flavors without overshadowing them.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Chicken Fajita Casserole in individual ramekins for a personalized touch during gatherings. For a family-style meal, present it in the baking dish with serving spoons and let everyone dig in. Either way, the casserole’s vibrant colors and inviting aromas are sure to captivate your guests from the moment it’s served.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover Chicken Fajita Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will keep it fresh for up to three days while maintaining its rich flavors. Simply reheat portions as needed for a quick, satisfying meal.

Freezing

The casserole’s hearty ingredients make it a freezer-friendly dish. To freeze, wrap individual portions tightly with plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months, ready to be enjoyed on a moment’s notice.

Reheating

Reheat your casserole in the oven or microwave until heated through. If using the oven, cover the dish with aluminum foil to keep the top from drying out. Stir gently after reheating to evenly distribute the flavors and ensure a delightful taste with every bite.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the recipe up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. It’s a great way to save time on busy days, and the flavors meld beautifully when made in advance.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh vegetables work wonderfully and add a crisper texture. Just chop them to a similar size as the frozen mix for even cooking.

What if I don’t have fajita seasoning?

No worries, you can easily create your own blend with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika. Adjust to taste for a personalized flavor profile.

How do I know when the casserole is done baking?

The casserole is done when the rice is tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden. You can also use a fork to check that the rice has absorbed the liquids and is cooked through.

Final Thoughts

There you have it, a delightful Chicken Fajita Casserole that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. This recipe is not only a breeze to put together but also offers a comforting meal rooted in bold flavors. I encourage you to try it out soon and experience firsthand the magic of this beloved dish. Your taste buds are in for a treat, and you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again. Happy cooking!

Chicken Fajita Casserole Recipe