This Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole is a cozy dish packed with chicken, bell peppers, and cheese. It’s like having all your favorite fajitas in one warm and tasty bake!
I love how simple it is to put together. Just layer everything in a dish, pop it in the oven, and you’ve got a family-friendly meal that feels festive. Plus, who doesn’t love melted cheese? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Using shredded chicken is a quick way to get flavor in your casserole. Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic option if you want to save time, as it’s tender and packed with flavor. You can also use leftover chicken for a delicious reuse.
Bell Peppers: The mix of red and green bell peppers adds color and crunch. If you prefer, yellow or orange peppers would work great too! You can also omit them if you’re looking for a lower-carb version.
Cream Cheese and Sour Cream: This combo gives your casserole a creamy texture. If you’re looking for lighter options, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. Just keep in mind it may be tangier. You can also use fat-free versions if preferred.
Spices: The chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder are key flavor boosters. If you want a little kick, add some cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños. You can also try taco seasoning for a different taste.
How Do I Get the Perfect Creamy Texture?
For a creamy and smooth texture, it’s important to mix your cream cheese and sour cream well. Start with room temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps. Here’s the method:
- Let your cream cheese sit out for about 30 minutes before mixing it. This helps it soften nicely.
- Using a hand mixer can make it easier to get a lump-free mix.
- Mix only until just blended after adding in the spices. Overmixing can make it too runny.
This little attention to detail will give your casserole that wonderful creaminess we all love!
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
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel), drained
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (or cheddar and Monterey Jack mix), divided
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional garnish: sliced green onions or cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to bake. So, in about an hour, you’ll have a warm, cheesy chicken fajita dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Dish:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13 inch casserole dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a little oil to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Creamy Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Use a spatula or hand mixer to mix them together until smooth. Then, stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if you’re using it), salt, and black pepper.
3. Combine the Chicken and Veggies:
Add the shredded chicken, diced red and green bell peppers, diced onion, and drained diced tomatoes with green chilies to the cream cheese mixture. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are combined evenly.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the mixture into the greased casserole dish and spread it out evenly. Make sure it’s level on top to cook evenly.
5. Add Cheese and Bake:
Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded cheese over the top of the casserole. Place it in the oven and bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
6. Finish with Extra Cheese:
After baking, take the casserole out and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese on top. Put it back in the oven for about 5 more minutes, until the cheese is melted and gooey.
7. Rest and Garnish:
Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven. This will help it set a bit. Garnish with sliced green onions or cilantro if you like.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the casserole warm, alongside tortilla chips, warm tortillas, or a fresh side salad for a complete meal. Enjoy your tasty, cheesy chicken fajita bake!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole
Can I Use Leftover Roast Chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover roast chicken works perfectly in this casserole. Just shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces and proceed with the recipe as usual. It’s a great way to use up leftovers!
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or have a dairy restriction, try using Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Just keep in mind that Greek yogurt may add a tangier flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If reheating in the oven, cover it with foil to keep it from drying out.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it! Before baking, cover the assembled casserole tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To cook, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
