Description: A flavorful and easy-to-make casserole that combines the classic taste of chicken fajitas with the comfort of a cheesy baked dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
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 (like Rotel), undrained
- 1 1/2 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:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. This will prevent the casserole from sticking and make cleanup easier. Ensure the oven is fully preheated for even cooking.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, uncooked instant rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, frozen diced onion and bell pepper blend, diced tomatoes with chilies (undrained), chicken broth, and fajita seasoning. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. The mixture should be slightly moist but not overly watery. Ensure the rice is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 3: Add about half of the shredded Mexican blend cheese to the mixture and stir gently to incorporate. This will add a cheesy flavor and help bind the casserole together. Reserve the remaining cheese for topping the casserole later.
Step 4: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. This will ensure that the casserole cooks evenly and that each serving has a good balance of ingredients.
Step 5: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This will help to trap moisture and prevent the rice from drying out during baking. Ensure the foil is securely sealed around the edges of the dish.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the casserole is heated through. Check the casserole after 35 minutes to see if the rice is cooked. If the rice is still crunchy, continue baking for another 5-10 minutes.
Step 7: Remove the casserole from the oven and carefully remove the aluminum foil. Sprinkle the remaining shredded Mexican blend cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Step 8: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on the casserole to prevent the cheese from burning.
Step 9: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the casserole to set slightly and make it easier to slice and serve.
Why you will love this recipe:
This Chicken Fajita Casserole is a winner for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table in under an hour. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen.
Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. For example, you can use different types of cheese, add extra vegetables, or adjust the amount of spice. You can also substitute the chicken with turkey or beef.
The flavor of this casserole is simply irresistible. The combination of chicken, fajita seasoning, and cheesy goodness is a match made in heaven. The diced tomatoes with chilies add a touch of heat, while the sour cream provides a creamy and tangy counterpoint.
Finally, this casserole is a great way to use up leftover cooked chicken. If you have some leftover rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken, this is the perfect recipe to put it to good use.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the casserole with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions.
- Serve with a side of guacamole and salsa.
- Serve with warm tortillas for a complete fajita experience.
- Add a side of Mexican rice and refried beans for a hearty meal.
- Top with your favorite fajita toppings, such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and onions.
Tips:
- For a spicier casserole, use a hotter variety of diced tomatoes with chilies or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture.
- If you don’t have instant rice, you can use regular rice, but you will need to cook it before adding it to the casserole.
- To prevent the cheese from burning, you can tent the casserole with aluminum foil during the last few minutes of baking.
- This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- If you want to make this casserole in a slow cooker, cook it on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 45 minutes Total Time: 1 hour
Nutritional Information: (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 450-550
- Protein: 35-45g
- Sodium: 700-900mg
Conclusion:
The Chicken Fajita Casserole is a delightful and convenient dish that brings the vibrant flavors of fajitas to your dinner table in a comforting casserole form. Its ease of preparation, coupled with its customizable nature, makes it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful fajita seasoning, and gooey melted cheese creates a truly satisfying and crowd-pleasing meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner option or a creative way to use leftover chicken, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the deliciousness and simplicity of this recipe, and feel free to adapt it to your own taste preferences and dietary needs.
Questions and Answers about this Recipe:
Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese in this casserole?
A: Absolutely! While the recipe calls for a Mexican blend cheese, you can easily substitute it with other types of cheese, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Colby Jack. You can even use a combination of different cheeses to create your own unique flavor profile. Just make sure the cheese melts well for the best results.
Q2: Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
A: Yes, it is! To make this casserole vegetarian, simply replace the chicken with a plant-based protein source, such as black beans, pinto beans, or tofu. You can also add extra vegetables, such as corn, zucchini, or mushrooms, to add more flavor and texture.
Q3: Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
A: Yes, you can definitely prepare this casserole in advance. Simply assemble the casserole according to the instructions, cover it tightly with aluminum foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake it, add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure that the casserole is heated through.
Q4: Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like to this casserole. Some good options include bell peppers, onions, corn, zucchini, and mushrooms. You can either add the vegetables raw or sauté them lightly before adding them to the casserole.
Q5: How can I make this casserole spicier?
A: If you like your food with a kick, there are several ways to add more spice to this casserole. You can use a spicier variety of diced tomatoes with chilies, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture, or sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the top of the casserole before baking. You can also add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the mixture.
