Fajita Chicken Casserole

This dish combines seasoned chicken, peppers, onions, and cheese in a baked casserole that delivers all the flavor of fajitas with minimal cleanup.

Fajita Chicken Casserole

Ingredients (Serves 4 to 6)

• 3 cups cooked, shredded or sliced chicken (such as rotisserie chicken or grilled breasts)

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

• 1 green bell pepper, sliced

• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced (optional)

• 1 medium onion, sliced

• 1 cup sour cream

• 1 package (about 30 grams) fajita seasoning or homemade equivalent

• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: chopped cilantro, lime wedges, jalapeños

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven

1. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).

2. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch (or similar) casserole dish.

Step 2: Sauté vegetables

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

2. Add sliced bell peppers and onion.

3. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are softened.

4. Season with a small pinch of salt and pepper.

5. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Mix the filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sour cream, and fajita seasoning.

2. Mix until the chicken is well coated.

3. Stir in half of the cooked pepper-onion mixture.

4. Add 1 cup of cheddar cheese and ½ cup of Monterey Jack or mozzarella.

5. Mix well to combine.

Step 4: Assemble the casserole

1. Spoon the chicken mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly.

2. Top with the remaining sautéed peppers and onions.

3. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top.

Step 5: Bake

1. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

2. If desired, broil for the last 2 to 3 minutes to brown the top lightly.

Step 6: Rest and serve

1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.

2. Garnish with chopped cilantro or jalapeños, and serve with lime wedges if desired.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with rice, tortillas, or over lettuce for a fajita salad.

• Add avocado, salsa, or hot sauce on top for extra flavor.

Storage

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

• Can be frozen (without the sour cream) for up to 2 months.