Chicken Fajita Casserole: Flavorful, Cheesy, and Easy

If you love the bold, zesty flavors of chicken fajitas but want a simpler, all-in-one meal, this Chicken Fajita Casserole is the perfect solution. Combining tender shredded chicken, instant rice, sautéed vegetables, and a cheesy, creamy sauce, this casserole captures all the flavors of a classic fajita dinner in one convenient dish.

This recipe is quick, family-friendly, and packed with flavor. The combination of fajita seasoning, diced tomatoes with chilies, and a blend of Mexican cheeses ensures every bite is rich, savory, and slightly spicy. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, it’s a versatile dish that everyone will enjoy.

With layers of chicken, rice, and cheesy goodness, this casserole simplifies dinner without compromising taste. Serve it with sour cream, guacamole, or fresh salsa for an extra touch of Tex-Mex flair.

Ingredients

• 4 cups shredded cooked chicken (about 2 large breasts)
• 2 cups instant rice
• 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup frozen diced onion and bell pepper blend
• 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with chilies (undrained, like Rotel)
• 1½ cups chicken broth
• 1 (1.12-ounce) packet fajita seasoning (I prefer McCormick)
• 1 (8-ounce) package shredded Mexican blend cheese (about 2 cups)

Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, instant rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, frozen onion and bell pepper blend, diced tomatoes with chilies, chicken broth, and fajita seasoning. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the Mexican blend cheese evenly over the top.

Step 4: Bake

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.

Step 5: Serve

Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or a squeeze of lime for added freshness. Serve with tortilla chips, salsa, or a side salad if desired.

Tips for the Best Chicken Fajita Casserole

1. Use cooked chicken: Rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken works perfectly for convenience.
2. Rice options: Instant rice keeps this dish quick, but you can substitute long-grain white rice or brown rice—adjust the liquid accordingly.
3. Cheese variations: Try adding pepper jack for extra heat or extra cheddar for a sharper flavor.
4. Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole a few hours before baking. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.
5. Customize veggies: Add corn, black beans, or sliced jalapeños for added flavor and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, ensure the cream of chicken soup is labeled gluten-free and use a gluten-free rice option if necessary.

Q2: Can I use uncooked chicken?
Yes, but you’ll need to cook the chicken with the mixture until fully cooked, which may increase the baking time slightly.

Q3: Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this casserole freezes well for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Q4: Can I make this spicy?
Absolutely! Add extra diced chilies, jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to suit your taste.

Q5: Can I prepare this in a slow cooker?
Yes, combine all ingredients (except cheese) in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 3–4 hours or until the rice is tender. Add cheese on top during the last 10 minutes.

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Conclusion

This Chicken Fajita Casserole is an easy, flavorful, and cheesy dish that brings the bold taste of Tex-Mex chicken fajitas to the comfort of your own home. With tender chicken, seasoned rice, sautéed vegetables, and a melty cheese topping, it’s a quick, family-friendly meal that’s perfect for weeknights or gatherings.