Name: Chicken Fajita Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 4 cups cooked and chopped or shredded chicken (Use rotisserie chicken for ease or cook your own.); 2 cups instant rice; 21 oz cream of chicken soup; 1 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup onion (finely diced); 10 oz ROTEL (diced tomatoes with green chilies); 2 cups chicken broth; 2 tbsp fajita seasoning; 1 cup cheddar cheese (for topping); Chopped cilantro (for garnish); Crushed tortilla chips (for topping); Sour cream (for serving)

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the cozy, spicy goodness of a Chicken Fajita Casserole. This dish combines all the vibrant flavors you love from traditional fajitas but packs them into a warm, creamy casserole that is perfect for family dinners and meal prep. With tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and zesty seasoning, this casserole is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Plus, it’s easy to whip up, making it an ideal weeknight meal. Grab your ingredients and let’s dive into this flavorful dish!

Why It Works Every Time

What makes this Chicken Fajita Casserole a surefire hit? First, it incorporates quick-cooking instant rice, which absorbs all the delicious flavors from the creamy sauce and spices. The combination of cream of chicken soup and sour cream creates a rich base that binds everything together, while the fajita seasoning delivers that iconic taste we all know and love. Additionally, the vibrant colors from the bell peppers and the freshness of cilantro not only make it visually appealing but also add layers of flavor. Every bite is like a fiesta in your mouth!

The Essentials

To get started on your Chicken Fajita Casserole, gather these essential ingredients:

4 cups cooked and chopped or shredded chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for ease or cook your own for a fresh option.
2 cups instant rice: A quick-cooking option that makes this dish come together in no time.
21 oz cream of chicken soup: This adds creaminess and depth to the casserole.
1 cup sour cream: For added richness and tang.
1/2 cup onion: Finely diced for a hint of sweetness and texture.
1/2 red bell pepper: Finely diced for a pop of color and flavor.
1/2 green bell pepper: Adds crunch and another layer of flavor.
10 oz ROTEL: A can of diced tomatoes with green chilies for some heat.
2 cups chicken broth: To cook the rice and enhance flavor.
2 tbsp fajita seasoning: The star of the show, giving that authentic fajita taste.
1 cup cheddar cheese: For a melty, cheesy topping.
Chopped cilantro: For garnish and freshness.
Crushed tortilla chips: For added crunch on top.
Sour cream: For serving.

Tools of the Trade

Before you start, make sure you have the right tools handy:

Large mixing bowl: For combining all the ingredients.
9×13 inch baking dish: Perfect size for this casserole.
Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
Wooden spoon or spatula: For mixing everything together.
Oven mitts: Safety first when handling hot dishes!

Method: Chicken Fajita Casserole

Ready to make this delicious casserole? Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your casserole cooks evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, instant rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, diced onion, red and green bell peppers, ROTEL, chicken broth, and fajita seasoning. Stir well until everything is evenly mixed.

Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure it cooks uniformly.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb the flavors and cook through.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Crunch

After 30 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the cheddar cheese on top. Then, add the crushed tortilla chips for that delightful crunch. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with extra sour cream on the side for a creamy finish.

Substitutions by Diet

If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, here are some easy substitutions:

Gluten-free: Ensure the cream of chicken soup is gluten-free or make your own. Use gluten-free tortilla chips.
Dairy-free: Substitute sour cream with a dairy-free alternative and use a dairy-free cheese.
Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and replace it with black beans or chickpeas for protein.
Low-carb: Use cauliflower rice instead of instant rice for a lower-carb option.

Steer Clear of These

To ensure your Chicken Fajita Casserole turns out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:

Using uncooked rice: Instant rice is key; regular rice will not cook properly in the casserole.
Overbaking: Watch the casserole closely after adding cheese to prevent it from burning.
Skipping the seasoning: The fajita seasoning is essential for flavor; don’t omit it!
Using low-quality canned soup: Choose a good-quality cream of chicken soup for the best flavor and texture.

Best Ways to Store

To keep your Chicken Fajita Casserole fresh and delicious, consider these storage tips:

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze: This casserole freezes well! Wrap it tightly in foil before freezing. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheat: When ready to eat, reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave in individual portions.

Ask the Chef

Can I make Chicken Fajita Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare everything in advance, assemble the casserole, and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole is a meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad, some guacamole, or a side of refried beans for a complete Mexican feast.

Can I use other proteins besides chicken?

Yes, you can easily substitute the chicken with cooked ground beef, turkey, or even shrimp, depending on your preference. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How can I add more spice to the casserole?

If you like it spicy, consider adding jalapeños to the mix or using a spicier fajita seasoning. You can also serve it with a side of hot sauce for those who want to kick it up a notch!

If you enjoyed this Chicken Fajita Casserole, try these delightful recipes:

Make It Tonight

Now that you have all the details to whip up a Chicken Fajita Casserole, grab your ingredients and make it tonight! This dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavors that everyone will love. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering with friends and family, this casserole is bound to impress. Enjoy the deliciousness and the smiles around the dinner table!