Description
Chicken Fajita Casserole is a comforting, cheesy one-dish meal that combines seasoned cubed chicken breasts with colorful bell peppers, onions, cooked rice, and a blend of melted Mexican cheeses. Infused with classic fajita spices and enhanced by diced tomatoes with green chilies, this casserole delivers vibrant flavors and satisfying textures perfect for a hearty family dinner.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 1/2 lbs (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 2 bell peppers, sliced
- 1 small onion, sliced
Grains and Liquids
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 1 can (10 oz / 280 g) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Cheese and Seasonings
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 1 packet fajita seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Oils and Garnish
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the casserole.
- Season Chicken: In a bowl, season the cubed chicken breasts evenly with fajita seasoning, garlic powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to infuse the meat with classic fajita flavors.
- Sear Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until the pieces are browned lightly on the outside but not fully cooked through.
- Cook Vegetables: Add the sliced bell peppers and onion to the skillet with the chicken. Continue cooking for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly, melding flavors together.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, stir together the cooked rice, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and chicken broth. Add the cooked chicken and vegetable mixture, combining everything thoroughly.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixed ingredients into a greased baking dish, spreading evenly. Sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese blend uniformly over the top to create a cheesy crust when baked.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. This allows the casserole to heat through and the flavors to meld.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted completely and has formed a beautiful golden crust on top.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, garnish the casserole with fresh cilantro leaves and serve with lime wedges on the side for a fresh, zesty finish.
Notes
- Add black beans or corn to the casserole for extra fiber and heartiness.
- Use quinoa instead of rice for a higher protein and gluten-free alternative.
- Add sliced jalapeños if you prefer a spicier kick to the dish.
- Top individual servings with sliced avocado or a dollop of Greek yogurt to add creaminess and balance the spices.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
