Fajita Chicken Casserole

How to Make Fajita Chicken Casserole:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

If you’re using raw chicken, start by seasoning the chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, and a bit of the fajita seasoning mix. Cook the chicken in a skillet over medium heat with a tablespoon of olive oil until fully cooked through (about 6-8 minutes per side). Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks or chop it into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the bell peppers and onions until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the corn and black beans (if using) and cook for another 2 minutes. Season with the fajita seasoning mix and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Once everything is tender, remove from the heat.

Step 3: Prepare the Casserole Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and half of the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Stir until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

In a large casserole dish (9×13 inch), layer the shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, and sauce mixture. Spread the mixture evenly to cover the bottom of the dish.

Step 5: Add the Toppings

Top the casserole with the remaining shredded cheese, spreading it evenly across the top. Then, sprinkle the crushed tortilla chips over the cheese for a crunchy topping.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s bubbling and the cheese is melted. For an extra crispy topping, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro if desired, and enjoy your delicious fajita chicken casserole!

Why This Recipe Works:

• Fajita Flavor in a Casserole: This recipe brings together all the elements of fajitas in a creamy, cheesy casserole form. The fajita seasoning infuses the chicken and vegetables with bold flavor, while the creamy sauce binds everything together beautifully.
• Easy to Customize: You can make this casserole as spicy or as mild as you like. Add more or less fajita seasoning to control the heat, and swap out ingredients like beans or vegetables based on personal preference.
• Meal Prep-Friendly: This casserole is perfect for meal prepping. It stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheats beautifully. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just bake it straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Satisfying and Filling: With chicken, vegetables, cheese, and chips, this casserole is hearty and filling, making it a complete meal that doesn’t need anything else on the side.

Tips for Success:

• Make it Spicy: Add some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the casserole for an extra kick of heat.
• Shred the Chicken: Shredded chicken helps the casserole retain its moisture and evenly distributes the flavors throughout the dish. You can also use rotisserie chicken for a time-saving shortcut.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or even spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Try a Taco Twist: For even more of a taco-inspired casserole, you can add a layer of salsa or guacamole on top just before serving.

Conclusion:

This Fajita Chicken Casserole is an easy, flavorful, and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. With the bold flavors of fajitas combined with the creamy richness of a casserole, it’s the perfect comfort food with a twist. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just looking for a tasty weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress!