Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole Recipe with Bell Peppers

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with an Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole featuring vibrant bell peppers! This dish combines tender chicken, zesty spices, and colorful vegetables, all baked to perfection. It’s not only simple to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the delicious details of this recipe!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Tortilla chips or warm tortillas, for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your casserole bakes evenly and thoroughly.

2. Sauté the Chicken and Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook until lightly browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the sliced onion, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, approximately 4-5 minutes.

3. Season the Mixture: Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Stir well to coat everything with the spices, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes for the flavors to meld.

4. Combine Remaining Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed chicken and veggies with black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of ingredients.

5. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.

6. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top of the casserole.

7. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy with tortilla chips or warm tortillas for a complete meal!

Cooking Tips

• Ingredient Selection: Choose vibrant, fresh bell peppers for the best flavor and presentation. Try mixing different colors for a visually stunning dish.

• Chicken Alternatives: For a quicker option, use rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken. Just shred it and mix it into the casserole.

• Vegetarian Variation: To make this casserole vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and add more beans or vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.

• Spice Level: If you like your dishes spicy, consider adding jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix.

• Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance. Just cover it and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake!

Serving Suggestions

Pair this casserole with a refreshing side salad drizzled with lime vinaigrette or guacamole for a delightful contrast of flavors. A side of Mexican rice or refried beans would also complement the dish beautifully.

Food Photography Ideas

Capture the colorful layers of the casserole in a well-lit kitchen. Consider overhead shots to showcase the vibrant colors of the bell peppers and cheese. Adding a sprinkle of cilantro right before taking the photo can enhance visual appeal.

Further Reading and Resources

To expand your culinary repertoire, check out these helpful resources:

• Mexican Cooking Techniques
• How to Cook Chicken Perfectly Every Time
• Exploring Different Types of Peppers

This Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole with Bell Peppers is not only a time-saver but also a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Mexico right to your table. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to impress your family and friends with this incredible recipe! Don’t forget to share your creations and experiences with us!