Why Make This Recipe
Chicken Fajita Casserole is a fantastic dish for any busy household. It combines all the amazing flavors of chicken fajitas into a simple, hearty casserole. It’s perfect for family dinners, weekend gatherings, or meal prep for the week ahead. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also easy to make and can be customized to fit everyone’s tastes!
How to Make Chicken Fajita Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into strips)
- 3 large bell peppers (red, yellow, green, sliced)
- 1 large onion (sliced)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack)
- 10 oz diced tomatoes with green chilies (drained)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lime (juiced)
- Fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish)
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 0.5 tsp dried oregano
- 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- In a bowl, combine chicken strips with olive oil, lime juice, and the homemade fajita seasoning. Let marinate for at least 10–15 minutes.
- Add sliced bell peppers and onion to the bowl and toss everything to coat evenly.
- Layer half of the chicken and veggie mix in the baking dish. Top with half the diced tomatoes and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Repeat with remaining layers.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
- Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for extra browning. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with warm tortillas or rice.
How to Serve Chicken Fajita Casserole
Chicken Fajita Casserole is best served warm. You can serve it with warm tortillas, rice, or a light salad. Adding some sour cream or guacamole on the side can enhance the dish even more. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and freshness!
How to Store Chicken Fajita Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely and then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container and it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Tips to Make Chicken Fajita Casserole
- For extra flavor, you can add more spices to the chicken marinade.
- Use a mix of different colored bell peppers for a more vibrant dish.
- Feel free to adjust the heat level by adding more or less cayenne pepper.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with black beans or tofu.
Variation
You can easily switch up the protein by using beef or shrimp instead of chicken. Additionally, you can make it low-carb by serving it over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just cover it and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
It’s best to use thawed chicken for even cooking, but if you must use frozen chicken, adjust the baking time accordingly.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can also check that the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside.