This Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole combines juicy chicken, colorful peppers, and cheesy goodness all in one pan. It’s a warm, tasty dish that brings the flavors of fajitas together in a fun way!
Trust me, this casserole is a winner for busy nights. Just mix, bake, and enjoy! I like to serve it with some tortilla chips on the side for that extra crunch—yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you prefer, substitute with turkey or even canned chicken. For a vegetarian option, try black beans or chickpeas!
Bell Peppers: Red and green peppers add great color and flavor. However, feel free to use yellow or orange peppers, or zucchini if you’re looking for something different.
Salsa: Choose your favorite salsa to control spice levels. If you don’t have salsa, a mixture of diced tomatoes with some taco seasoning can work well too.
Cheese: I love a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack, but feel free to switch it up with pepper jack for a spicy kick or keep it dairy-free with vegan cheese.
How Do I Mix Everything Together for the Best Flavor?
Mixing is key to getting the flavors just right. Start with the chicken and veggies in a large bowl, making sure to break up any clumps of chicken so it blends well. When adding the salsa and sour cream, stir gently but thoroughly to coat everything evenly.
- When adding spices, sprinkle them across the mixture to ensure every bite has flavor.
- Folding in the cheese at the end helps keep some texture while still distributing it nicely.
Don’t rush this stage; a good mix leads to a well-flavored casserole!
Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 cup salsa (mild or medium, according to preference)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: cooked rice or tortilla chips to serve alongside or mix in
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to bake. So, you can serve a warm, delicious casserole in about 40 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready for your casserole when you’re done prepping.
2. Combine Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, diced red and green bell peppers, and chopped onion if you’re using it. This colorful combination is where all your flavors start!
3. Add Salsa and Sour Cream:
Pour in the salsa and sour cream. Stir everything together until the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated. You want a nice blend of creaminess and flavor at this point!
4. Spice It Up:
Add the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix it all together thoroughly so every bit of chicken gets the delicious seasoning.
5. Fold in the Cheese:
Gently fold in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese into the mixture. This will make your casserole extra cheesy and flavorful!
6. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer your mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly so it bakes nicely.
7. Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese on top of the mixture. This will create a deliciously melty topping!
8. Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
9. Let it Rest:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps it set up a bit for easier serving.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm casserole on plates and enjoy! You can add tortilla chips, cooked rice, or a dollop of sour cream on the side for extra flavor. Dig in and savor the deliciousness!
Enjoy your flavorful, cheesy Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole
Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor. Just shred the chicken and follow the rest of the recipe as directed.
What If I Don’t Have Salsa?
If you don’t have salsa, you can use a mixture of diced tomatoes with some taco seasoning for a similar flavor. You could also use a simple combination of chopped tomatoes and green chilies!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat; you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
