Introduction
If you love sizzling fajitas but crave the simplicity of a one-pan dinner, this Chicken Fajita Casserole is your new weeknight hero. 🌮✨ Juicy chicken, colorful bell peppers, onions, and melty cheese come together in a creamy, flavorful bake that captures all the zesty Tex-Mex magic — with none of the hassle!
It’s hearty, low-carb friendly, and perfect for meal prep. Serve it over rice, wrap it in tortillas, or enjoy it straight from the dish — because yes, it’s that good.
(Focus Keyword: Chicken Fajita Casserole)
Ingredients List
For the Casserole:
- 1 ½ lbs (680g) chicken breasts, sliced thinly
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon fajita seasoning (see below or use store-bought)
Homemade Fajita Seasoning (Optional):
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
(NLP Keywords: creamy fajita bake, cheesy chicken casserole, Tex-Mex comfort food, low-carb chicken fajitas)
Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced chicken and half of the fajita seasoning. Cook until just browned (about 5–6 minutes). Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Veggies
In the same skillet, add bell peppers, onions, and garlic. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until slightly tender.
Step 4: Mix the Creamy Base
In a bowl, combine sour cream, cream cheese, lime juice, and remaining fajita seasoning. Stir until smooth.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Layer cooked chicken and veggies in the baking dish. Spread the creamy mixture evenly on top. Sprinkle with cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
Step 6: Bake
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Step 7: Serve
Let it rest for 5 minutes, then serve with your favorite toppings — cilantro, avocado slices, or jalapeños.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 410 kcal
- Protein: 36g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Calcium: 28% DV
Healthier Alternatives
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for extra protein.
- Swap cream cheese for low-fat cottage cheese (blended smooth).
- Add cauliflower rice or black beans to boost fiber and nutrition.
- Choose reduced-fat cheese to lower calories without losing flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over Spanish rice, cauliflower rice, or quinoa.
- Wrap in warm tortillas for fajita burritos.
- Top with fresh salsa, avocado, or a drizzle of hot sauce.
- Pair with cornbread or a green salad for a complete meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the chicken: It continues to bake, so only brown it lightly first.
- Too much liquid: Drain excess moisture from veggies before baking.
- Skipping the lime juice: It brightens the creamy sauce and balances richness.
- Using pre-shredded cheese: Freshly shredded melts smoother and creamier.
Storing Tips
- Refrigerate: Up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- Freeze: Up to 2 months (thaw overnight in the fridge).
- Reheat: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, or microwave in portions.
Conclusion
This Chicken Fajita Casserole takes everything you love about sizzling fajitas and transforms it into a creamy, cheesy, one-pan masterpiece. 🌶️🔥 It’s comforting, family-friendly, and bursting with bold flavors that make every bite unforgettable.
Make it once, and it’ll become your go-to Tex-Mex comfort dish for busy weeknights!
FAQs
1. Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
2. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Definitely — it’s a great shortcut. Just mix it with the seasoning and creamy base.
3. Can I make it dairy-free?
Use coconut cream and vegan cheese for a dairy-free version.
4. Can I add rice directly?
Yes, add 1 cup cooked rice before baking for a complete casserole meal.
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