Crispy Chicken Fajita Casserole with Sautéed Onions and Bell Peppers

Get ready to indulge in a melty, flavorful dish that combines the best of both worlds: crispy chicken and vibrant fajitas! This Crispy Chicken Fajita Casserole features juicy chicken, sautéed onions, and bell peppers, all baked to perfection. It’s an easy one-dish meal packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
• 1 cup tortilla chips, crushed
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Sour cream (for serving)

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Gather all your ingredients and prepare the chicken by shredding or cubing it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the skillet. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, and half of the shredded cheese. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole

In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread half of the crushed tortilla chips evenly on the bottom. Spoon the chicken and vegetable mixture over the chips. Top with the remaining crushed tortilla chips and the rest of the cheese.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with a dollop of sour cream on the side. Enjoy your Crispy Chicken Fajita Casserole!

Cooking Tips

• Chicken Selection: For a quicker option, use a rotisserie chicken. It adds flavor and saves on cooking time.
• Cheese Options: Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses. Pepper Jack can add a spicy kick, while a Mexican blend can enhance the flavor profile.
• Vegetable Variations: Try adding zucchini, corn, or black beans for added texture and nutrients.
• Spice It Up: If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or some guacamole for a refreshing contrast. You can also serve it with lime wedges for an extra zing.

Food Photography Ideas

Capture the vibrant colors of this dish by photographing it from above, showcasing the layers of cheese, chicken, and vegetables. A close-up shot of a spoonful with melted cheese stretching can be mouthwatering.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with black beans or chickpeas and add more vegetables like mushrooms or spinach.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortilla chips and ensure your spices are free from gluten additives.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the cheese with dairy-free cheese alternatives and use vegan sour cream.

Exploring Further

If you enjoyed this recipe, consider exploring more delicious casseroles like Cheesy Mexican Quinoa Casserole or a classic Chicken Enchilada Casserole. For tips on meal prepping, check out our guide on Easy Meal Prep Ideas.

Now that you have this tasty recipe, it’s time to head to your kitchen and whip up your own Crispy Chicken Fajita Casserole. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations and let us know how it turned out! Happy cooking!