Fajita Chicken Casserole: A Flavor-Packed One-Dish Meal

Introduction

If you’re craving bold flavors with minimal effort, Fajita Chicken Casserole is the perfect dish. This easy, cheesy, and protein-packed casserole brings all the smoky goodness of classic chicken fajitas into a convenient baked meal. With layers of juicy chicken, vibrant bell peppers, melty cheese, and a perfectly seasoned sauce, it’s a surefire hit for busy weeknights.

Casseroles are ideal for meal prep, offering a satisfying blend of flavors in a single dish. If you’re a fan of Tex-Mex cuisine, you’ll love how this recipe simplifies chicken fajitas while keeping the authentic taste intact. To explore more Mexican-inspired dishes, check out Authentic Tex-Mex Recipes for creative ways to spice up your meals.

Understanding the science behind a great casserole is key to achieving a perfect balance of textures and flavors. If you’re curious about how ingredients interact, read The Science of Casserole Cooking to master layering techniques and seasoning strategies.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-dish convenience – Minimal prep and cleanup.
Bold Tex-Mex flavors – A mix of smoky, savory, and slightly spicy.
High-protein and low-carb option – Perfect for a keto-friendly meal.
Great for meal prep – Stores well for leftovers.
Customizable – Easily adjust spice levels and ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Casserole:

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 small red onion, sliced
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Mexican blend, or Monterey Jack)
1 tbsp olive oil

For the Fajita Seasoning:

1 tsp chili powder
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp cumin
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for spice)

For the Creamy Base:

1 cup sour cream
½ cup cream cheese, softened
½ cup salsa
¼ cup chicken broth

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.

2. Season and Cook the Chicken

In a bowl, mix the chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Toss the chicken slices with the seasoning to coat evenly.
Heat a pan over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 5 minutes, just until lightly browned. (It will finish cooking in the oven.)

3. Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In a separate bowl, mix sour cream, cream cheese, salsa, and chicken broth.
Stir until smooth and well combined.

4. Assemble the Casserole

Layer the cooked chicken at the bottom of the baking dish.
Add the sliced bell peppers and onions on top.
Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the mixture.
Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.

5. Bake to Perfection

Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Garnish and Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, or a squeeze of lime juice.
Serve with warm tortillas or over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein options: Swap chicken for ground beef, turkey, or shrimp.
Dairy-free: Use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese.
Extra spice: Add chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Vegetarian version: Replace chicken with black beans or mushrooms.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans.
Serve with tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast.
Top with pico de gallo or guacamole for extra freshness.

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