Description: A cheesy, flavorful, and comforting casserole packed with shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, fluffy rice, zesty fajita seasoning, and topped with a generous layer of melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. This easy weeknight meal is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for using leftover cooked chicken.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken breasts, cooked and shredded (approximately 3 cups shredded)
- 1 packet (1 oz) fajita seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade – see tips below)
- 1 bell pepper (any color – red, green, yellow, or orange), sliced into thin strips
- 1 medium onion, sliced into thin strips
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup sour cream (regular or light)
- ½ cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot, depending on your preference)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or any cooking oil with a high smoke point)
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh cilantro, extra sour cream, diced avocado
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking and allows the cheese to melt beautifully. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a light coating of olive oil. This prevents the casserole from sticking to the bottom of the dish and makes cleanup easier.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering (but not smoking), add the sliced bell pepper and onion. Sauté the vegetables, stirring occasionally, until they are tender-crisp and slightly softened. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Don’t overcook them, as they will continue to cook in the oven. The sautéing process brings out the natural sweetness of the peppers and onions, enhancing the overall flavor of the casserole.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, fajita seasoning mix, sour cream, and salsa. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly coated. This step is crucial for distributing the flavors and ensuring that every bite of the casserole is delicious. Add the sautéed vegetables to the bowl and mix gently to combine.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the chicken mixture to the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom of the dish to ensure consistent cooking.
Step 5: Cheese It Up and Bake!
Top the chicken mixture with the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Distribute the cheese evenly to create a golden, bubbly crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. The cheese should be completely melted and slightly browned for optimal texture and flavor.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Fajita Chicken Casserole is a winner for so many reasons! It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and simple ingredients. It’s also a fantastic way to use leftover cooked chicken, reducing food waste and saving you time and effort. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, fluffy rice, zesty fajita seasoning, and melted cheese is simply irresistible. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The recipe is also highly customizable; you can easily adjust the spice level by using different types of salsa or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also swap out the vegetables or cheeses to suit your preferences. Kids and adults alike will love this casserole, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables into your diet.
Serving Suggestions:
- Tortilla Chips: Serve the casserole with a side of tortilla chips for scooping.
- Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole.
- Guacamole & Pico de Gallo: Add a dollop of guacamole and a spoonful of pico de gallo for extra flavor and freshness.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is a classic side dish that pairs well with Tex-Mex flavors.
- Black Beans: A side of seasoned black beans adds extra protein and fiber to the meal.
- Warm Tortillas: Serve with warm flour or corn tortillas for a complete fajita experience.
- Toppings Bar: Set up a toppings bar with options like chopped cilantro, sour cream, avocado, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapenos, and hot sauce so everyone can customize their serving.
Tips:
- Homemade Fajita Seasoning: For a healthier and more flavorful option, make your own fajita seasoning. Combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Chicken Options: Feel free to use rotisserie chicken, leftover grilled chicken, or canned chicken for this recipe. Just make sure the chicken is cooked and shredded.
- Rice Variations: You can use white rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. Make sure the rice is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole.
- Vegetable Substitutions: Get creative with your vegetables! You can add mushrooms, zucchini, corn, or any other vegetables you enjoy.
- Cheese Alternatives: If you don’t have cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese on hand, you can use any combination of cheeses that melt well, such as Colby Jack, pepper jack, or even a Mexican cheese blend.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of salsa and fajita seasoning to control the spice level of the casserole.
- Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Assemble it, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate, per serving – based on 6 servings)
Important note: Nutritional information can vary significantly based on specific ingredients used and serving sizes.
- Calories: 450-550
- Protein: 35-45 grams
- Sodium: 700-900 mg (depending on fajita seasoning and salsa)
Conclusion:
The Fajita Chicken Casserole is a delightful and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, customizable, and packed with flavor. With its combination of tender chicken, colorful vegetables, fluffy rice, and melted cheese, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal!
Questions and Answers about This Recipe:
Q1: Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! To make this casserole vegetarian, simply substitute the chicken with a plant-based protein like black beans, pinto beans, or seasoned tofu. You can also add extra vegetables like corn, zucchini, and mushrooms for a heartier casserole. Make sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary, as some vegetarian protein sources may require less cooking time than chicken.
Q2: Can I use leftover rice that’s a little dry?
A: Yes, you can definitely use slightly dry leftover rice in this casserole. The sour cream and salsa will help to moisten the rice during baking. However, if your rice is very dry, you might want to add a splash of chicken broth or water to the mixture to ensure it’s not too dry after baking.
Q3: How can I make this casserole spicier?
A: There are several ways to increase the spice level of this casserole. You can use a hot salsa, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the fajita seasoning, or include some diced jalapeños in the vegetable mixture. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top of the casserole before baking for an extra kick.
Q4: Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas if I want to serve with tortillas?
A: Yes, you can absolutely use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas. Corn tortillas provide a slightly different flavor and texture that some people prefer. Just make sure to warm them up before serving for the best taste and pliability.
Q5: Can I reduce the amount of cheese to make it healthier?
A: Certainly! You can definitely reduce the amount of cheese in this casserole to make it healthier. You can use a lower-fat cheese option, such as part-skim mozzarella or reduced-fat cheddar. You can also sprinkle a thin layer of cheese on top instead of a thick layer. Another option is to use a cheese with a stronger flavor, so you don’t need to use as much to achieve a satisfying cheesy taste. You can also mix the cheese with a small amount of breadcrumbs to create a topping that provides texture without adding too much fat.
