This Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole is all about layers of tasty goodness! You’ll love the seasoned chicken, colorful peppers, and cheesy goodness all in one dish.
I mean, who doesn’t love a one-pan meal? It’s perfect for a busy night, and the leftovers (if there are any!) are great for lunch. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 🌶️🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: I love using rotisserie chicken for convenience, but any cooked chicken works. You can also use shredded turkey if that’s what you have. For a vegetarian option, try black beans or chickpeas.
Bell Peppers: The red and green peppers add color and sweetness. Feel free to use any color bell pepper you like—yellow or orange also taste great! If you prefer, try adding some corn for extra sweetness.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess to the casserole. You can use Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative, or a dairy-free yogurt if you’re avoiding dairy.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chiles: This gives flavor and a little kick. If you want less spice, skip this and add regular diced tomatoes with some extra seasoning instead.
Tortillas: I use flour tortillas here because they get nice and soft. Corn tortillas are a great gluten-free option, just make sure to adjust baking time for them as they can get soggier.
How Do I Get the Perfect Layering in My Casserole?
Layering helps build flavor and texture in your casserole. It’s important to start with a good base to absorb juices and keep everything balanced. Here’s how to layer like a pro:
- Start with a layer of tortilla pieces at the bottom to create a sturdy foundation.
- Spread half of your chicken mixture over the tortillas, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
- Add a nice layer of cheese—this melts beautifully and holds everything together.
- Repeat until you run out of filling, ending with cheese on top for that golden brown finish.
Always cover with foil to keep moisture in, and remove it towards the end for that crispy cheese. Enjoy assembling your casserole, and don’t stress—imperfections make it even more delicious!
Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 packet fajita seasoning mix
- 6-8 small flour tortillas, cut into pieces or strips
- 1/2 cup chopped onion (optional)
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep, plus 30 minutes of baking in the oven. In total, you’ll be enjoying your cozy meal in under an hour, perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This sets the stage for even cooking and helps melt that cheese deliciously!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a skillet, heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add in the chopped onions (if you’re using them) along with the red and green bell peppers. Cook them for about 5 minutes until they’re nice and tender.
3. Add the Chicken and Seasoning:
Next, toss in your cooked chicken and the fajita seasoning mix. Stir it all together and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the chicken is coated and warmed through.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream and the drained diced tomatoes with green chilies. Give it a good stir to mix everything together!
5. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Now, fold the chicken and pepper mixture into the sour cream and tomato mixture. Make sure everything is well combined.
6. Layer the Casserole:
Lightly grease your 9×13 inch baking dish. Start with a layer of the cut tortilla pieces at the bottom. This will be your base!
7. Add the Filling:
Spread half of the chicken and pepper mixture over the tortilla layer evenly. Then, sprinkle half of the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses on top.
8. Repeat the Layers:
Now we build again! Place another layer of tortillas, followed by the remaining chicken mixture. Top it off with the rest of the cheese.
9. Bake It:
Cover your casserole dish with aluminum foil to keep everything nice and moist while it bakes. Bake in the oven for 20 minutes.
10. Uncover and Finish Baking:
After 20 minutes, remove the foil and let your casserole bake for an additional 10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly on top!
11. Let It Rest:
Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit for 5 minutes. This part is tough but trust me, it helps everything settle and makes serving easier!
12. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole with some optional toppings like guacamole, salsa, or extra sour cream on the side. Enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw and cook the chicken before adding it to the casserole. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or use a microwave to defrost it quickly. Ensure it’s cooked through for food safety.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. If it’s cold from the fridge, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream?
If you want a healthier option, you can use plain Greek yogurt as a substitute for sour cream. It offers a similar creaminess with more protein. For a dairy-free alternative, try using a plant-based yogurt.
