If you’re looking for a comforting and satisfying meal that is sure to please the entire family, then look no further than this delicious Cheesy Fajita Chicken Casserole. Bursting with Tex-Mex flavors, this casserole combines tender shredded chicken, creamy textures, vibrant bell peppers, and melty cheese, creating a dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, it’s quick to prepare and needs just one baking dish, making clean-up a breeze.
Imagine coming home after a long day to the enticing aroma of a home-cooked meal waiting for you. This casserole is not only quick and easy, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser that adds a fun flair to your dinner table. You simply mix all the ingredients in one bowl, transfer the mixture to a baking dish, and let the oven do the rest of the work. Every bite of this Cheesy Fajita Chicken Casserole is loaded with flavor, combining the smoky heat of fajita seasoning with the comforting creaminess of cheese and sour cream.
Not only is this casserole delectable, but it also comes together in just about 40 minutes from start to finish! Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a dish to impress friends at a casual get-together, this is the recipe that will keep everyone coming back for seconds. So, grab your apron and get ready to whip up a meal that everyone will enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Fajita Chicken Casserole
- Flavorful and Comforting: The combination of fajita seasoning, creamy soup, and cheese delivers a flavor explosion in every bite.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and straightforward instructions, you can have this dish ready in no time.
- Family-Friendly: It’s a dish that kids and adults alike will love, making it perfect for family dinners.
- One-Pan Wonder: Easy clean-up since everything is prepared in one baking dish.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize it to include your favorite proteins and veggies.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather all the necessary tools. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), as this is the perfect temperature for baking the casserole. Next, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the casserole from sticking. Having these steps in place will help you cook efficiently.
For this recipe, you’ll need a large mixing bowl to combine the ingredients, a measuring cup for the rice and broth, and a spatula for mixing. A baking dish is crucial for holding the casserole while it bakes. Make sure you have room in your oven for the casserole dish, as it needs to be placed in the center for even cooking. Having all your ingredients pre-measured will speed up the process, making it even smoother!
Ingredients
- 4 cups shredded cooked chicken (about 3 large breasts)
- 2 cups instant rice, uncooked
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup frozen diced onion and bell pepper blend
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 packet (1.12 oz) fajita seasoning
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro or green onions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial, as it ensures the casserole will cook evenly and thoroughly when it’s placed inside. While the oven heats, you can prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, frozen onion and bell pepper blend, diced tomatoes with green chilies (including juice), chicken broth, and fajita seasoning. Be sure to mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended. This ensures that the flavor permeates throughout the entire casserole.
Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish
Once your mixture is well combined, transfer it to the greased baking dish. Spread the mixture out evenly, making sure it’s distributed uniformly so it cooks thoroughly. A spatula will come in handy for this step to ensure everything is evenly spread.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Mexican blend cheese over the top of the mixture. This layer of cheese will create a deliciously gooey topping when baked. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Step 5: Final Touches
When the baking time is up, remove the casserole from the oven and add the remaining cup of cheese on top. Let it cool for about 5 minutes in the pan before serving to allow the cheese to melt properly. To give it a fresh touch, garnish with diced cilantro or green onions if desired.
Variations
- Protein: Substitute the chicken with shredded beef, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Vegetables: Add in zucchini, corn, or black beans for extra nutrition and texture.
- Spices: Enhance the flavor with additional spices like cumin, paprika, or chili powder for a little extra heat.
Cooking Notes
- Make sure to use cooked shredded chicken for ease – rotisserie chicken works great!
- For a little crunch, consider topped with crushed tortilla chips or crispy fried onions before serving.
- Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with warm tortillas on the side for a complete meal.
- Pair with a fresh salad for a balanced dinner.
Tips
- Always taste and season your mixture before baking – adjust salt and pepper to your liking.
- Consider using low-fat versions of cream of chicken soup and sour cream for a healthier option.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 440 calories per serving
- Protein: 36g per serving
- Sodium: 780mg per serving
FAQs
Can I make the casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Just bake it before serving!
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Wrap individual portions in foil or store in freezer-safe containers for up to three months.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, you can easily substitute the chicken for beans or extra veggies to make a tasty vegetarian casserole!
Can I use brown rice instead of instant rice?
Brown rice requires a longer cooking time, so if using it, increase the chicken broth and adjust the baking time accordingly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Cheesy Fajita Chicken Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that wraps comfort, flavor, and convenience into one delicious dish. With the ease of preparation and the delightful taste, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Don’t hesitate to try out variations or garnishes that suit your taste; the possibilities are endless! We invite you to share your own experiences with this recipe, so let us know how yours turned out and any tweaks you made. We hope you enjoy this cozy casserole as much as our family does!
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Cheesy Fajita Chicken Casserole
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Cheesy Fajita Chicken Casserole is a comforting dish bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 cups shredded cooked chicken (about 3 large breasts)
- 2 cups instant rice, uncooked
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup frozen diced onion and bell pepper blend
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 packet (1.12 oz) fajita seasoning
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro or green onions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial, as it ensures the casserole will cook evenly and thoroughly when it’s placed inside. While the oven heats, you can prepare the rest of the dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, frozen onion and bell pepper blend, diced tomatoes with green chilies (including juice), chicken broth, and fajita seasoning. Be sure to mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended. This ensures that the flavor permeates throughout the entire casserole.
- Once your mixture is well combined, transfer it to the greased baking dish. Spread the mixture out evenly, making sure it’s distributed uniformly so it cooks thoroughly. A spatula will come in handy for this step to ensure everything is evenly spread.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Mexican blend cheese over the top of the mixture. This layer of cheese will create a deliciously gooey topping when baked. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
- When the baking time is up, remove the casserole from the oven and add the remaining cup of cheese on top. Let it cool for about 5 minutes in the pan before serving to allow the cheese to melt properly. To give it a fresh touch, garnish with diced cilantro or green onions if desired.
Notes
This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. It’s perfect for meal prep!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 440 kcal
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Protein: 36 g