This Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole combines juicy chicken, colorful peppers, and tangy cheese all in one dish! It’s like a fiesta in your oven!
I love how this casserole is a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something tasty without much fuss. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: I often use rotisserie chicken for convenience; it’s already cooked and adds great flavor. You can also use leftover chicken or even canned chicken in a pinch!
Bell Peppers: The color matters for flavor! Red and green peppers add sweetness and crunch. You could substitute them with yellow or orange peppers if you prefer a milder taste.
Cheese: I love using shredded cheddar because it melts well, but you can swap it with a Mexican cheese blend for extra flavor or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Sour Cream & Cream Cheese: These give the casserole a creamy texture. If you’re looking for lighter options, consider Greek yogurt for sour cream and reduced-fat cream cheese.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole is Creamy and Delicious?
Getting that creamy texture is all about mixing well. When you combine the sour cream and cream cheese, ensure they are softened to make mixing easier. Here are some tips:
- Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before mixing.
- Mix all the ingredients thoroughly to avoid any clumps, especially with the cream cheese.
- If it feels too thick, a splash of milk can help make it easier to spread.
This will ensure you’re left with a deliciously creamy casserole that’s full of flavor!
Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican cheese blend)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 packet (about 1 oz) fajita seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup salsa (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking spray
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake, giving you a total time of about 45-50 minutes. The great thing is, once in the oven, you can relax until it’s ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with some olive oil or cooking spray. This will help prevent the casserole from sticking.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, toss together your cooked chicken, diced red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and onion. Make sure everything is well combined for the best flavor! Then add in the sour cream, softened cream cheese, fajita seasoning mix, and salsa (if you want that extra kick). Stir everything together until it’s all creamy and mixed perfectly. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
3. Assemble the Casserole:
Once everything is mixed, transfer it into your prepared baking dish. Spread the mixture evenly across the bottom. Now, it’s time to sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. Yum!
4. Bake It:
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and just a bit golden around the edges. If you can’t resist, peek through the oven door to admire that cheesy delight!
5. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, carefully remove your casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps the cheese set a little more. Serve it warm and enjoy it with some tasty sides like rice, tortillas, guacamole, or a dollop of extra sour cream. Bon appétit!
Enjoy your flavorful and easy chicken fajita casserole that’s cheesy, creamy, and packed with fajita goodness!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Casserole?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken works perfectly in this recipe. Just shred or chop it up and follow the rest of the instructions as usual. It’s a great way to use up last night’s dinner!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance! Simply assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit for about 15-20 minutes before popping it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What If I Don’t Have Fajita Seasoning?
No worries! If you don’t have fajita seasoning, you can make your own by mixing spices like chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt. About 1-2 teaspoons of this blend should work nicely!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, microwave individual portions or warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through. You may add a splash of milk or extra cheese to keep it creamy!
