Crispy Chicken Fajita Casserole with Sautéed Onions and Bell Peppers

Are you ready to take your taste buds on a tantalizing journey? This Crispy Chicken Fajita Casserole is a delightful twist on traditional fajitas, combining the savory essence of seasoned chicken with vibrant sautéed onions and bell peppers, all topped with a crispy layer that will make your family come back for seconds!

Ingredients

To create this mouthwatering dish, gather the following ingredients:

For the Casserole

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
• 1 cup tortilla chips, crushed

For Garnish

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Sliced jalapeños (optional)
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the chicken is evenly coated with the spices.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Sauté the sliced onions and bell peppers for about 5-7 minutes, or until they become soft and slightly caramelized. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
3. Add the black beans, diced tomatoes, and corn to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for another 3 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed vegetable mixture with the seasoned chicken.
3. Layer half of the crushed tortilla chips at the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Spread half of the chicken and vegetable mixture over the chips, followed by a layer of cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.

Step 4: Bake

1. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden brown.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.
2. Garnish with chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving.

Cooking Tips

• Ingredient Selection: Opt for fresh, vibrant bell peppers and onions for the best flavor and color contrast. If you prefer, you can also use frozen vegetables; just make sure to thaw and drain them before use.
• Chicken Choices: For a quicker option, rotisserie chicken works great! Simply shred it and mix with the spices.
• Add Some Heat: If you enjoy spicy food, feel free to add diced jalapeños to the chicken mixture or sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for an extra kick or a vegan cheese alternative if you’re catering to dietary restrictions.

Pairing Suggestions

This casserole pairs beautifully with a refreshing side salad, guacamole, or even a zesty corn salsa. For drinks, consider serving it with a cold margarita or a crisp iced tea to complement the flavors of the dish.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with a mix of sautéed mushrooms and zucchini for a delicious vegetarian option. You can also add extra beans for protein.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure your tortilla chips are gluten-free and swap out any other gluten-containing ingredients.
• Dairy-Free: Use vegan cheese or omit cheese altogether and serve with avocado slices for creaminess.

Conclusion

This Crispy Chicken Fajita Casserole with Sautéed Onions and Bell Peppers is a flavor-packed dish that is sure to become a family favorite. The combination of crispy chips, seasoned chicken, and colorful vegetables makes it not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with this recipe. Whether you prefer more spice, different vegetables, or alternative proteins, make it your own! Share your creations and enjoy the culinary adventure.

For more delicious recipes and cooking tips, explore our collection of articles on cooking techniques and meal prep ideas. Happy cooking!