Delicious Homemade Chicken Fajita Casserole Recipe

Embrace the flavors of Mexico with this mouthwatering Chicken Fajita Casserole. This dish combines tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and a medley of spices, all layered with cheesy goodness. Perfect for a family dinner or a potluck, this casserole is not only simple to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Tortilla chips (optional, for serving)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Sauté the Chicken

   In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Add Vegetables and Spices

   Stir in the sliced onion and bell peppers, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the spices are fragrant.

4. Combine Ingredients

   In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken and vegetable mixture with black beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and cooked rice. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

5. Layer the Casserole

   In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, pour half of the chicken mixture. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese on top. Add the remaining chicken mixture, then top with the remaining cheese.

6. Bake

   Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

7. Serve

   Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with tortilla chips if desired.

Cooking Tips

• Ingredient Selection: Opt for organic chicken and fresh vegetables for enhanced flavor and nutrition. When choosing bell peppers, look for firm ones with no blemishes.
• Spice it Up: Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your preference. Add jalapeños for extra heat or use mild salsa instead of diced tomatoes.
• Meal Prep: This casserole can be prepared in advance. Simply assemble it, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with additional vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms and use tofu or tempeh for protein.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients, especially canned goods, are certified gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese or omit cheese altogether for a lighter option.

Pairing Suggestions

Serve your chicken fajita casserole with a side of guacamole, sour cream, and a fresh green salad. A cold margarita or a refreshing iced tea makes for the perfect drink pairing.

Further Exploration

To enhance your culinary skills, explore these resources:

• How to Cook the Perfect Chicken for tips on moist and flavorful chicken.
• Understanding Spices to learn more about the spices used in this recipe and how to incorporate them into your cooking.

This Chicken Fajita Casserole is a delightful way to bring the vibrant tastes of Southwestern cuisine into your home. We encourage you to experiment with flavors and make this dish your own. Happy cooking!