Fajita Chicken Casserole Recipe

This Fajita Chicken Casserole combines all the flavors of classic fajitas into a delicious, easy-to-make casserole. Tender chicken, sautéed bell peppers, onions, and a creamy blend of spices are topped with melted cheese for a comforting and flavorful dish. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and can easily be customized with your favorite toppings and ingredients.

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The History of Fajitas

Fajitas originated in the 1930s in Texas, where Mexican cowboys would make use of inexpensive cuts of meat like skirt steak, which they grilled and served with tortillas. Over time, fajitas evolved into a Tex-Mex classic, made with various proteins like chicken, shrimp, and beef, along with bell peppers, onions, and a variety of seasonings. This Fajita Chicken Casserole takes those beloved flavors and simplifies them into a one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy home cooks.

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Key Ingredients and Why They Matter

Chicken

For this casserole, boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. The chicken is cooked with fajita seasoning for an authentic Tex-Mex flavor. You can also use rotisserie chicken for a quicker version.

• Tip: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in fajita seasoning and lime juice for 30 minutes before cooking.

Bell Peppers and Onions

Bell peppers and onions are essential to the fajita flavor. Their sweetness and crunch provide the perfect contrast to the savory chicken and melted cheese.

• Pro Tip: Use a combination of red, yellow, and green bell peppers for added color and flavor. You can also add jalapeños or poblano peppers for extra heat.

Fajita Seasoning

A good fajita seasoning blend is key to the bold flavors of this casserole. You can use a store-bought blend or make your own with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne for heat.

• Tip: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether.

Cream Cheese and Sour Cream

These two ingredients create a rich, creamy base for the casserole that helps bind everything together while adding a tangy flavor.

• Substitution Tip: You can replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter option or use dairy-free versions if needed.

Cheese

A combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese is melted over the top of the casserole, adding richness and creating that signature gooey, cheesy finish. You can also use pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.

• Pro Tip: Add an extra sprinkle of cheese in the last 5 minutes of baking for an extra cheesy finish.

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How to Make Fajita Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables

Start by slicing the chicken into thin strips and seasoning it with fajita seasoning. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken until it is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same skillet, sauté sliced bell peppers and onions until they are soft and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. The peppers and onions should still have a bit of crunch for texture.

• Tip: For added flavor, deglaze the skillet with a splash of chicken broth or lime juice after cooking the chicken and vegetables.

Step 2: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, sautéed peppers and onions, cream cheese, and sour cream. Stir until everything is well coated in the creamy mixture.

Transfer the chicken and vegetable mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Top with shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, spreading it evenly across the top of the casserole.

• Pro Tip: Add a layer of black beans or corn for extra flavor and heartiness.

Step 3: Baking the Casserole

Bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden-brown top, you can broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes, but watch it closely to avoid burning the cheese.

• Tip: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the ingredients settle and makes it easier to slice.

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Topping and Serving Suggestions

Fajita Chicken Casserole can be served with your favorite fajita toppings, such as:

• Sour cream
• Guacamole
• Salsa
• Chopped cilantro
• Diced tomatoes
• Sliced jalapeños

Serve this casserole with warm tortillas, Spanish rice, or a side of Mexican corn for a complete meal. You can also serve it with tortilla chips for a fun, dip-style option.

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Variations and Add-Ins

Vegetarian Fajita Casserole

For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for black beans, pinto beans, or tofu. You can still use the same fajita seasonings and sautéed vegetables for a flavorful dish.

Spicy Fajita Casserole

For those who love heat, add chopped jalapeños or habanero peppers to the casserole. You can also mix in some hot sauce or chipotle powder to the cream cheese mixture for a spicy kick.

Chicken and Rice Fajita Casserole

Add cooked rice to the casserole for a heartier, more filling dish. You can use white rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

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Dietary Adaptations

This Fajita Chicken Casserole can be modified to fit different dietary preferences:

• Gluten-Free: The recipe is naturally gluten-free, but check your seasoning blend for any hidden gluten ingredients.
• Low-Carb/Keto: To keep the casserole low-carb, avoid adding beans, rice, or tortillas. You can also use a low-carb cream cheese and sour cream.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese, sour cream, and cheese alternatives to make this recipe dairy-free.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Fajita Chicken Casserole Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. When you’re ready to cook, simply bake it as directed, adding 5-10 minutes to the bake time if it’s going into the oven cold.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole for up to 3 months. Be sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven.

What can I serve with Fajita Chicken Casserole?
This casserole pairs perfectly with Spanish rice, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it alongside refried beans or Mexican street corn for a full meal.

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