Name: Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 4 cups shredded cooked chicken; 2 cups instant rice (uncooked); 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup; 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup frozen diced onion and bell pepper blend; 10 oz diced tomatoes with chilies (1 can, undrained); 1.5 cups chicken broth; 1.12 oz fajita seasoning packet; 8 oz shredded Mexican blend cheese (about 2 cups, divided)

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The aroma of spices wafts through the kitchen as this Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole Recipe bakes to cheesy perfection, turning any meal into a hearty feast. Imagine digging into a warm, bubbly dish filled with tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and creamy cheese, all nestled in perfectly cooked rice. The blend of flavors dances across your palate, offering a delightful escape from the mundane.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole Recipe
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole

This dish is not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug on a busy weeknight or a delightful addition to your weekend gatherings. I remember the first time I made this casserole for a family get-together—laughter filled the room, and everyone dove in for seconds. This Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole Recipe truly captures the spirit of togetherness and celebration. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to make something that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Whip it up in just 15 minutes of prep and let the oven do the work for about 45 minutes.
Irresistible Flavor: A zesty blend of chicken, spices, and creamy goodness will have your taste buds dancing.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant colors of bell peppers and melty cheese make this casserole a feast for the eyes.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for dinner, potlucks, or even leftovers for lunch the next day!
Diet-Friendly Options: Easy to customize for gluten-free or dairy-free diets—just swap the necessary ingredients!

Ingredients You’ll Need

4 cups shredded cooked chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook your own. Either way, this protein packs a punch!
2 cups instant rice (uncooked): Quick-cooking rice is a huge time-saver in this recipe, absorbing all the delicious flavors.
10.5 oz cream of chicken soup: This creamy base adds richness; feel free to use a homemade or organic substitute if desired.
1 cup sour cream: Adds a cool, tangy element; Greek yogurt can be a lighter substitute.
1 cup frozen diced onion and bell pepper blend: Convenient and colorful, this frozen mix ensures you get that classic fajita flavor without extra chopping!
10 oz diced tomatoes with chilies (1 can, undrained): For added moisture and a slight kick; if you prefer a milder dish, choose plain diced tomatoes or mild salsa.
1.5 cups chicken broth: Enhances the seasoning and moisture for the rice—homemade or store-bought work just as well.
1.12 oz fajita seasoning packet: McCormick’s brand is a trusted favorite; you can make your own with chili powder, cumin, and paprika to avoid preservatives.
8 oz shredded Mexican blend cheese (about 2 cups, divided): Get ready for gooey goodness; use a mix of cheeses for a different flavor profile!

How to Make Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole Recipe

Preheat and Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. While it warms up, lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. This step ensures your casserole comes out cleanly, making cleanup a breeze!

Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, uncooked instant rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, frozen onion and bell pepper blend, undrained diced tomatoes with chilies, and chicken broth. Add the fajita seasoning and mix thoroughly. You want every morsel coated in that delicious sauce to maximize flavor.

Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour this colorful mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. The vibrant ingredients will create a mouth-watering sight as they meld together during baking.

Cover and Bake: Tightly cover the dish with aluminum foil to trap in the moisture. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, monitoring until the rice becomes tender and absorbs most of the broth. It should smell incredible as it cooks!

Add Cheese: Remove the casserole from the oven, carefully discarding the foil. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top. This is where the dish transforms into cheesy heaven.

Bake Until Bubbly: Return the dish to the oven without the foil and bake for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating a delectable golden crust that’s hard to resist.

Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to stand for about 5 minutes before digging in. This resting time helps set the dish and makes serving easier. Serve it up alongside tortilla chips, fresh salsa, sliced avocado, or a sprinkle of cilantro to elevate your meal!

Storing & Reheating

Once your Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole Recipe is fully cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 hours. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you’d like to freeze it, make sure it’s tightly wrapped, and it should last for up to 3 months. When reheating, pop it in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. Just keep in mind that while the flavor remains delicious, the texture might change slightly—try refreshing it with a dash of extra cheese when reheating!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Make sure to watch the cooking time closely; overcooking can yield mushy rice.
Allow your chicken to come to room temperature before mixing it in for an even bake.
Feel free to add in your favorite veggies—zucchini or jalapeños can amp up flavor and color.
To enhance the dish’s flavor, serve it with a dollop of guacamole or fresh cilantro.
Looking for a lighter option? Consider using low-fat sour cream and cheese!
This casserole can easily be prepared ahead of time; just cover and refrigerate before baking.

Each bite of this Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole is filled with fond memories, flavors, and the joy of sharing food with those you love. Experimenting with ingredients can add your own personal touch—maybe even a favorite side dish or topping that brings back special moments. So why not make this comforting casserole a part of your kitchen repertoire? Get ready to dig in and enjoy every last bite!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use raw chicken in this casserole?

Absolutely! If you prefer to use raw chicken, dice it into small pieces and add it to the mixing bowl with the other ingredients. Just make sure to adjust your baking time—cook it until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?

For a healthier option, you can substitute cream of chicken soup with homemade white sauce or use a can of cream of celery or mushroom soup. Both will provide a similar creamy texture while adding a bit of a different flavor.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with a mix of beans, such as black beans or chickpeas, for protein. You can also add in extra veggies like corn or mushrooms to enhance the flavor while keeping it plant-based!

How do leftovers taste the next day?

Leftovers are often just as tasty, if not better! The flavors continue to meld, creating a rich and satisfying dish. Just be sure to add some moisture when reheating to revive its creamy texture.