Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté diced onions and bell peppers until slightly softened, about 5 minutes.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked instant rice, sautéed vegetables, fajita seasoning, and diced tomatoes if using. Mix well.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top evenly with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Serving and Storage:
Serve Fajita Chicken Casserole hot, with optional toppings such as sour cream, salsa, or avocado slices. Pair with a side salad or tortilla chips for a complete Tex-Mex meal.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving. The casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
Tips:
- Use cooked chicken from a rotisserie or leftover chicken to save time.
- Add black beans, corn, or jalapeños for extra flavor and texture.
- Sprinkle extra cheese on top in the last 5 minutes of baking for a gooey finish.
- Use a mix of red, green, and yellow bell peppers for a colorful presentation.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to make slicing easier.
Conclusion:
Fajita Chicken Casserole is a quick, easy, and flavorful oven-baked dish perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
Combining tender chicken, rice, sautéed vegetables, and melted cheese, it brings the classic fajita taste to a convenient casserole form.
This recipe is versatile, customizable, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
FAQ:
Can I use brown rice instead of instant rice?
Yes, but cook the brown rice beforehand as it will not cook fully in the oven with the casserole.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole and refrigerate for a few hours before baking. Add cheese just before baking for best results.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Layer the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 2–3 hours until heated through and cheese is melted.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, just thaw and drain excess water before adding to prevent a soggy casserole.
What toppings work best?
Sour cream, guacamole, salsa, sliced olives, or chopped cilantro complement the flavors perfectly.