Creamy Chicken Fajita Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that brings together the savory flavors of fajitas and the comforting texture of a casserole, look no further! This Creamy Chicken Fajita Casserole is a delightful blend of tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and a rich, creamy sauce, all baked to perfection. Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (mix of red, green, and yellow for color)
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup cream of chicken soup (or a homemade version)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fajita seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Tortilla chips or flour tortillas (for serving)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven

   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a perfectly baked casserole.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

   In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté until they are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and fajita seasoning for that signature flavor.

3. Combine Ingredients

   In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, corn, diced tomatoes (with their juice), sour cream, and cream of chicken soup. Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined.

4. Layer the Casserole

   Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, adding more if desired for extra cheesiness.

5. Bake to Perfection

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

6. Serve and Enjoy

   Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with tortilla chips or warm flour tortillas for scooping.

Cooking Tips

• Ingredient Selection: For the best flavor, use fresh bell peppers and high-quality chicken. If you’re looking for an extra kick, try adding jalapeños to the sautéed vegetables.

• Make It Your Own: Feel free to customize this recipe by adding black beans for protein or swapping chicken for beef or shrimp. You can also make it vegetarian by using beans and additional veggies.

• Serving Suggestions: This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or guacamole. For a refreshing drink, try serving it with a classic margarita or a non-alcoholic limeade.

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute sour cream and cream of chicken soup with coconut cream and a dairy-free cream soup alternative.

• Low-Carb Option: Replace the corn with zucchini or cauliflower rice to keep the carb count low.

• Gluten-Free: Ensure your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free or use a homemade version to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Fajita Casserole is not only a breeze to make, but it’s also packed with flavors that everyone will love. Its creamy texture combined with the zest of fajita spices creates a mouthwatering experience that’s perfect for any occasion. Don’t forget to snap a photo of your creation and share it with friends and family!

For more delicious recipes and cooking tips, consider exploring articles on meal prepping and quick weeknight dinners.

Try out this recipe, and you may just find a new family favorite that you can come back to time and time again! Happy cooking!