Name: Chicken Fajita Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 1 green bell pepper, sliced; 1 onion, sliced; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp fajita seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

Chicken fajita casserole is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines all the flavors of traditional chicken fajitas into a convenient, baked meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or a casual gathering, this recipe brings together tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and zesty spices, all topped with melted cheese. Below, you will find a detailed guide to making this scrumptious casserole, including ingredients, step-by-step preparation, cooking notes, serving suggestions, and tips.

Ingredients:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
3 bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced
1 large onion, sliced
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Mexican blend, or your choice)
2 tablespoon olive oil
1 packet fajita seasoning mix
1 cup sour cream
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
1 cup cooked rice (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the casserole.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the sliced bell peppers and onions to the skillet with the chicken. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Mix in Fajita Seasoning
Sprinkle the fajita seasoning mix over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated with the seasoning. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken and vegetables with the diced tomatoes and sour cream. If you are adding rice, mix it in as well. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.

Step 6: Top with Cheese
Spread the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Cooking Notes:

Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before mixing with other ingredients.
Adjust the amount of fajita seasoning based on your spice preference.
For a lower-calorie option, you can use reduced-fat cheese and sour cream.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve the chicken fajita casserole with a side of guacamole, salsa, and tortilla chips.
It pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
For added flavor, garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.

Tips:

Prep Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and vegetable mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply assemble the casserole and bake.
Make It Spicier: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix for an extra kick.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, to customize the flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: 350
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 600mg

Conclusion

This chicken fajita casserole recipe is a versatile and satisfying dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine to your dinner table. Easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, it’s a perfect choice for a family meal or a casual get-together. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the delicious blend of chicken, vegetables, and melted cheese, and don't forget to customize it to suit your taste!