Quick and Easy Homemade Chicken Fajita Casserole Recipe for Busy Families

If you’re a busy family looking for a quick and delicious dinner option, look no further than this Quick and Easy Homemade Chicken Fajita Casserole. This dish combines tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and zesty spices, all layered with cheese and tortillas for a comforting meal that comes together in no time.

Ingredients

To whip up this tantalizing casserole, you’ll need the following:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 cup bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), sliced
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
• 6 small flour tortillas, cut into strips
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a Mexican blend)
• 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
• 1 cup black beans (rinsed and drained)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
• Sour cream or avocado for serving (optional)

Cooking Instructions

Creating this delightful casserole is incredibly straightforward. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This allows the casserole to cook evenly, resulting in a perfectly melted cheese topping.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender and fragrant. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, diced tomatoes (with their juices), corn, black beans, and taco seasoning. Mix well to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly coated with the seasoning.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole

In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread half of the tortilla strips evenly across the bottom. Layer half of the chicken mixture on top of the tortillas, followed by a generous sprinkle of cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining tortillas, chicken mixture, and finish with a layer of cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, 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 out of the oven, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with sour cream or avocado on the side for an extra touch of creaminess.

Cooking Tips

• Ingredient Selection: Opt for rotisserie chicken to save time. It’s flavorful and perfect for quick meals.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with extra beans or a mix of sautéed mushrooms and zucchini for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Spice Level: Adjust the spice level by using mild or hot taco seasoning, or add sliced jalapeños if you like it spicy.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a great meal prep option.

Pairing Suggestions

This Chicken Fajita Casserole pairs wonderfully with a light salad or some Mexican rice on the side. For drinks, consider serving it with a refreshing margarita or iced tea to complement the flavors.

Further Reading and Resources

• Explore more about Mexican cuisine and its vibrant flavors here.
• For tips on meal prepping for busy families, check out this guide.

Now that you have this quick and easy Chicken Fajita Casserole recipe, gather your family around the dinner table and enjoy this comforting meal together. Don’t forget to share your experience and photos with friends or on social media. Happy cooking!