This Easy Cheesy Chicken Fajita Casserole is a fun mix of chicken, colorful peppers, and tasty cheese, all baked together in one dish. It’s super cheesy and has a little kick too!
I love how simple it is to throw everything together, and then just let the oven do the work. Perfect for a quick dinner when you need a tasty meal in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: You can use shredded rotisserie chicken for an easy option, or leftover chicken works great too! For a vegetarian version, use cooked beans or chickpeas instead.
Bell Peppers: I love using red and green for their colors and sweetness, but feel free to swap in yellow or orange peppers. If you’re in a pinch, frozen mixed peppers can work too!
Cheese: Cheddar is my go-to for cheesiness, but you can also try Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend for something different. If you’re looking for a healthier option, use reduced-fat cheese or leave it out entirely.
Sour Cream & Cream Cheese: Greek yogurt can be a healthier substitute for sour cream, giving a nice tang. If you want a lighter creaminess, just use more sour cream and omit cream cheese.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are traditional, but you can use corn tortillas or even omit them for a lower-carb dish. Just layer the chicken mixture directly in the casserole.
How Do I Layer the Casserole for Best Results?
Layering your casserole correctly helps ensure all flavors blend well. Begin with a tortilla base to absorb moisture. Here’s how to layer:
- Start with half of the tortilla strips at the bottom.
- Spread half of the chicken mixture evenly over the tortillas.
- Top that with half of the cheese.
- Repeat the layers, finishing with cheese on top.
This way, the bottom remains moist and tasty while the top gets that lovely golden color during baking! Remember to cover with foil for the first part of baking to keep it from drying out.
Easy Cheesy Chicken Fajita Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Chicken and Veggies:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1 large red bell pepper, diced
- 1 large green bell pepper, diced
- 1 large onion, diced
Cheesy Goodness:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
Flavor Boost:
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel), drained
- 1 packet fajita seasoning mix
Layering Elements:
- 8-10 small flour tortillas, cut into strips or pieces
- 1/2 cup milk (optional for creaminess)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or butter for greasing the casserole dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then needs 35-45 minutes in the oven. So, in total, you’re looking at around 1 hour for a flavorful and cheesy meal that the whole family will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Fajita Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the cooked chicken, diced red and green bell peppers, diced onion, fajita seasoning mix, drained diced tomatoes with green chilies, and add salt and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined!
3. Prepare the Creamy Mixture:
In another bowl, blend the sour cream, cream cheese, and optional milk until smooth. This will add a rich creaminess to your casserole.
4. Combine Mixtures:
Now, add the creamy mixture to the chicken and vegetable mix. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are coated nicely.
5. Start Layering:
Place half of the tortilla strips evenly on the bottom of the greased casserole dish. This will be your first layer.
6. Add Chicken Mixture:
Spread half of the chicken and veggie mixture over the tortillas, spreading it out evenly to cover.
7. Cheese It Up:
Top this layer with half of the shredded cheese. Now it’s starting to look good!
8. Repeat the Layers:
Do this process again: another layer of tortilla strips, the rest of the chicken mixture, and the remaining cheese on top.
9. Bake the Casserole:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. This keeps everything nice and moist!
10. Final Bake:
After 25 minutes, take off the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly—oh, the smell will be wonderful!
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for 5 minutes to set. Then scoop it out and enjoy your cheesy, flavorful creation! Perfect for family dinner or entertaining guests.
This casserole is a delightful and comforting dish that combines all the flavors of classic chicken fajitas in a super cheesy, baked style—easy to make and even easier to love!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Dish?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken beforehand. The best way to thaw is overnight in the refrigerator. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave’s defrost function, but make sure to cook it immediately afterward.
What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream?
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, Greek yogurt works great as a substitute for sour cream. It maintains the creamy texture while adding a bit of tang. You can also use buttermilk or a non-dairy yogurt if you prefer.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until thoroughly heated. A splash of milk or cream can help refresh creaminess if needed!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole and assemble all the layers a day ahead. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
