Chicken Fajita Casserole Recipe

This Chicken Fajita Casserole is a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for a flavorful and satisfying weeknight dinner! Imagine tender chicken breasts, colorful bell peppers, and onions, all baked together in a cheesy casserole with a hint of fajita spice. This recipe is ready in just 40 minutes, making it a fantastic option when you’re short on time but still crave a delicious and healthy meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in a flash with minimal ingredients and simple steps.
• Flavorful and Aromatic: The combination of fajita seasoning, garlic, and fresh cilantro creates a delicious and aromatic dish that’s packed with authentic Mexican-inspired flavors.
• One-Dish Wonder: Minimal cleanup! Everything bakes together in one casserole dish, saving you time and effort.
• Versatile: Serve this Chicken Fajita Casserole as a main dish with your favorite sides, or use it as a base for tacos, burritos, or burrito bowls.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, they provide a lean and healthy protein source.
• Fajita seasoning: Adds a blend of spices for that classic fajita flavor. You can use store-bought or homemade fajita seasoning.
• Vegetable oil: Used to cook the chicken and vegetables.
• Bell peppers: Cut into strips and adds sweetness, color, and a bit of crunch.
• Onion: Sliced and adds a savory base and sweetness.
• Shredded cheese: Use your favorite cheese, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend.
• Fresh cilantro: Chopped and adds a fresh herb flavor and a pop of color as a garnish.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Chicken Fajita Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Season

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a baking dish, season the chicken breasts with fajita seasoning and vegetable oil. Make sure the seasoning is evenly distributed. You can use your hands to rub the seasoning into the chicken.

Step 2: Assemble the Casserole

Top the chicken breasts with the sliced bell peppers and onions. Sprinkle with a little more fajita seasoning, if desired, and top with the shredded cheese.

Step 3: Bake and Serve

Bake the casserole uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired, and serve hot.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use boneless, skinless thighs: For even more flavorful chicken, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts.
• Adjust the spice level: Adjust the amount of fajita seasoning to your liking, depending on how spicy you want the dish.
• Add other vegetables: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the casserole dish along with the bell peppers and onions, such as sliced mushrooms, diced zucchini, or corn.
• Make ahead: You can season the chicken and assemble the casserole (without the cheese) ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

How to Serve

This Chicken Fajita Casserole is delicious with a variety of sides:

• Rice: Serve it over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice.
• Pasta: Toss the chicken and vegetables with cooked pasta for a heartier meal.
• Vegetables: Steamed or roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or asparagus, are a healthy and colorful addition to the meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Fajita Casserole is best enjoyed fresh, but you can also prepare it ahead of time or store leftovers for later.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or reheat individual portions in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts?
Yes, you can! However, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts will take longer to cook.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend.

3. Can I make this recipe without the cheese?
Yes, you can! For a lower-calorie option, you can omit the cheese or use a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese instead.

4. Can I add other seasonings to the dish?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs.

This Chicken Fajita Casserole Recipe is a simple, flavorful, and convenient way to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal. With its easy preparation, versatile serving options, and one-pan cleanup, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

Print