Name: Fajita Chicken Casserole Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 1 green bell pepper, sliced; 1 small red onion, sliced; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup sour cream; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp fajita seasoning (store-bought or homemade); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Why You’ll Love Fajita Chicken Casserole Bake Recipe

This casserole is ready in under an hour with minimal prep, uses convenient ingredients like pre-cooked chicken and instant rice, and delivers bold fajita flavors without a lot of fuss. It’s a crowd-pleasing, satisfying dish that reheats well and even makes great leftovers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
• shredded cooked chicken breast
• uncooked instant white rice
• cream of chicken soup
• sour cream
• frozen diced onion and bell pepper blend
• diced tomatoes with chilies, undrained
• chicken broth
• fajita seasoning
• shredded Mexican style cheese blend

Directions

Preheat your oven and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, instant rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, frozen peppers and onions, diced tomatoes (with juices), chicken broth, fajita seasoning, and about half of the shredded cheese. Mix thoroughly so everything is evenly coated.
Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish, ensuring the rice is submerged in liquid.
Cover the dish with foil and bake until the rice is tender and nearly cooked through.
Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top, and return to the oven to bake uncovered until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned at the edges.
Let the casserole rest a few minutes before serving to allow it to set for easier slicing.

Servings and timing

This casserole yields about 8 servings and takes approximately 60 minutes from start to finish (including prep and baking).

Variations

• Swap in leftover turkey or rotisserie chicken for shredded chicken.
• Use brown instant rice; just adjust liquid and bake times accordingly.
• Add diced jalapeños or spicy fajita seasoning for extra heat.
• Try lactose-free sour cream and cheese for a dairy-sensitive version.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave until heated through, or warm the entire casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven until hot and bubbling. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months—thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

What type of rice should I use?

You can use uncooked instant white rice so it cooks in the casserole as it bakes. If using brown rice, adjust liquid and bake time because it needs longer to cook.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh diced onions and bell peppers can be used. You may briefly sauté them first for a softer texture.

Is pre-cooked chicken necessary?

Pre-cooked shredded chicken makes this recipe quicker, but you can also use leftover rotisserie chicken or cook chicken breasts and shred them before use.

Can I make this casserole spicier?

To add heat, include diced jalapeños or use a hot fajita seasoning packet.

How do I know when the rice is done?

The rice should be tender and absorb most of the liquid in the casserole; if it still seems firm, bake a little longer (covered).

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from chilled.

How do I prevent a soggy bottom?

Ensure the rice is submerged in liquid but not excessively so. Also, allow the casserole to rest after baking to let the liquid absorb completely.

What can I serve with this dish?

Serve with sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, sour cream, or a simple side salad to complement the rich, cheesy casserole.

Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup?

Yes. For a lighter or homemade version, use a homemade creamy sauce or cream of mushroom soup.

Is it okay to freeze this casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Conclusion

This Fajita Chicken Casserole Bake turns classic fajita flavors into a comforting, cheesy casserole that’s easy to prepare and great for feeding a crowd. With simple ingredients, hearty portions, and customizable options, it’s sure to become a weeknight favorite in your recipe rotation.