Name: Cheesy Fajita Chicken Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
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)

Description

This Cheesy Fajita Chicken Casserole is a comforting dish bursting with flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

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