This Easy Cheesy Chicken Fajita Casserole is a tasty mix of chicken, colorful bell peppers, and lots of cheese! It’s baked until bubbly and golden for a comforting meal.
You’ll love how quick it comes together! I usually serve it with some tortilla chips on the side—perfect for scooping up every last cheesy bite. Yum! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you’re short on time, leftover chicken works perfectly too. For a vegetarian option, swap in black beans or cooked lentils.
Bell Peppers: Red and green peppers provide color and flavor! Feel free to use yellow or orange bell peppers if you prefer or have them on hand. You can also throw in jalapeños for a spicy kick!
Cream Cheese & Sour Cream: These give the casserole its creamy texture. Greek yogurt could be a healthy substitute for sour cream. You can use low-fat versions too if you’re looking to lighten it up.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are traditional, but corn tortillas or even tortilla chips can work as well. If you’re gluten-free, look for brand-specific gluten-free tortillas.
Why is Layering Important in Casseroles?
Layering is crucial for even cooking and a great texture. It creates delicious pockets of flavor and ensures everything mixes well.
- Start with a layer of tortillas for a base that holds everything.
- Spread the chicken and cheese mixture evenly to ensure each bite has good flavor.
- Repeat the layers and finish with cheese on top for that lovely melty finish when baked!
Take your time to layer properly for the best results. It makes the casserole hearty and evenly cooked! Enjoy your cooking! 🌮
Easy Cheesy Chicken Fajita Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or Mexican blend cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 packet (about 1 oz) fajita seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup milk
- 10-12 small flour tortillas (or enough to line a 9×13-inch casserole dish)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delectable casserole takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 35 minutes to cook, making it quick and easy for dinner. Just gather your ingredients, prepare them, layer them in the dish, and let the oven do the magic!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with a little olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
In a skillet over medium heat, pour in 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced onions and bell peppers to the pan. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they are softened and fragrant. This step adds marvelous flavor to your casserole!
3. Mix the Creamy Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, milk, and fajita seasoning. Use a whisk or a spatula to mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This is the delicious base that will mix well with the chicken and veggies!
4. Combine Chicken and Vegetables:
Now, add the shredded chicken, sautéed onions, and bell peppers to your creamy mixture. Stir in half of the shredded cheese as well. Mix everything thoroughly until combined—the more combined, the better the flavors!
5. Layering the Casserole:
Cut the tortillas into halves or quarters, so they fit nicely in the casserole dish. Start with a single layer of tortilla pieces at the bottom of the greased dish. Then, spread a portion of the chicken and cheese mixture over the tortillas. Repeat this process (tortillas, mixture) until all ingredients are used, finishing with the chicken-cheese mixture on top.
6. Cheese It Up:
Finally, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top layer of the casserole. This will give it a beautiful, golden, and bubbly finish while baking.
7. Baking to Perfection:
Cover the dish with foil and bake in your preheated oven for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. It’s great on its own, but you can also serve it with sides like salsa, guacamole, or extra sour cream. Enjoy your Easy Cheesy Chicken Fajita Casserole!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Chicken Fajita Casserole
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely before using it in the casserole. You can thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture. Alternatively, use a spicier fajita seasoning blend for more kick!
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to one day. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven—add an extra few minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions until hot. Enjoy again!
