Why You’ll Love Chicken Fajita Casserole Recipe

Chicken fajita casserole brings together everything you love about fajitas, but in a more hands-off format. It’s loaded with savory spices, gooey melted cheese, and juicy chicken, making it a crowd-pleasing favorite. The dish is customizable based on your preferences, whether you like it mild or spicy. Best of all, it requires minimal prep time and clean-up, so you can enjoy a comforting, flavorful meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Ingredients

To make this easy casserole, you’ll need a few simple ingredients:

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work great. Slice the chicken into strips to ensure they cook evenly.
Bell Peppers: A mix of red, green, and yellow bell peppers adds color and sweetness to the dish.
Onions: Thinly sliced onions give the casserole that savory base flavor.
Olive Oil: For coating the chicken and vegetables to help them cook perfectly.
Fajita Seasoning: A combination of chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and cayenne pepper creates the signature fajita flavor. You can use store-bought seasoning or make your own.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: This adds moisture and a bit of heat to the casserole.
Cheese: Shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese adds creaminess and helps bind everything together.
Lime Juice: A squeeze of fresh lime enhances the flavors and brightens up the dish.
Cilantro: For garnish, fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and a fresh, herby taste.

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a large bowl, coat the chicken strips with olive oil, lime juice, and fajita seasoning. Toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated in the flavorful spices.

Step 3: Prepare the Veggies
Add the sliced bell peppers and onions to the chicken and toss to combine.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Layer half of the chicken and vegetable mixture in the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the diced tomatoes with green chilies and one cup of shredded cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining chicken mixture, tomatoes, and cheese.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. Serve the casserole as is or with a side of rice or beans.

Tips for Success

Customize the Spice Level: The beauty of fajita seasoning is that you can easily adjust the heat. Add more cayenne pepper if you like it spicy, or reduce the amount for a milder version.
Use Leftover Chicken: If you have leftover cooked chicken, this recipe is a great way to repurpose it. Just add it to the casserole along with the veggies and seasonings.
Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or another vegetable of your choice, such as zucchini or eggplant.
Add Rice or Beans: Want to make the dish even more filling? Add cooked rice or black beans in between the layers for extra texture and flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

This casserole makes great leftovers and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or cover and bake in the oven until warmed through. For a freezer-friendly option, you can freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and reheat after thawing in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

Chicken fajita casserole is a delicious and easy way to enjoy all the flavors of fajitas without the need for grilling or sautéing. The dish is packed with tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and melty cheese, making it a perfect meal for busy weeknights or any time you’re craving comforting, Tex-Mex-inspired food. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or enjoying leftovers for lunch, this casserole will surely become a favorite in your recipe rotation.