Fajita Chicken Casserole
Introduction
If you love the bold, zesty flavors of classic fajitas but crave the comfort of a baked, cheesy dish, Fajita Chicken Casserole is the perfect solution. This hearty, family-friendly meal combines tender shredded chicken, seasoned rice, creamy sauce, and melty cheese into one satisfying dish.
It’s quick to prepare, packed with Tex-Mex flavor, and ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
📝 Description
Fajita Chicken Casserole is a creamy, cheesy baked dish layered with the vibrant flavors of fajita seasoning, tomatoes with green chilies, and bell peppers. The rice cooks right in the casserole, absorbing the savory broth and spices, creating a comforting, all-in-one meal with minimal cleanup.
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
4 cups shredded cooked chicken (about 3 large chicken breasts)
2 cups instant rice (uncooked)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1 cup frozen diced onion and bell pepper mix
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as RoTel), undrained
1½ cups chicken broth
1 packet (1.12 oz) fajita seasoning
1 bag (8 oz) shredded Mexican blend cheese (about 2 cups)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Prep Your Dish
Lightly coat a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2️⃣ Combine the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
Shredded chicken
Uncooked instant rice
Cream of chicken soup
Sour cream
Frozen onion and bell pepper mix
Undrained diced tomatoes with chilies
Chicken broth
Fajita seasoning
Half of the shredded cheese
Stir thoroughly until evenly mixed.
3️⃣ Assemble the Casserole
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
4️⃣ Bake (Covered)
Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes.
5️⃣ Add Cheese & Finish Baking
Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
🌎 Origin and Cultural Significance
This casserole is inspired by Tex-Mex cuisine, a flavorful fusion of Mexican and American culinary traditions. Fajitas originated in Texas, traditionally featuring grilled meat served with peppers and onions.
The casserole adaptation reflects modern American comfort cooking—taking traditional flavors and transforming them into convenient, oven-baked meals suitable for busy households.
✨ Optional Additions
Add 1 cup black beans for extra protein and fiber
Stir in corn kernels for sweetness and texture
Top with sliced jalapeños for extra heat
Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or green onions
Serve with tortilla chips for added crunch
💡 Tips for Success
✔ Use instant rice only—regular rice requires different liquid ratios and cook times.
✔ If the casserole seems too thick before baking, add ¼ cup extra broth.
✔ For a golden, slightly crispy top, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.
✔ Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time.
✔ Let the casserole rest before serving so it sets properly.
🥗 Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving, based on 8 servings)
Calories: 420–480 kcal
Protein: 28–32 g
Carbohydrates: 35–40 g
Fat: 20–24 g
Fiber: 2–4 g
Values may vary depending on cheese type and portion size.
💛 Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While creamy and cheesy, this casserole can be balanced with a few simple swaps:
Use light sour cream
Choose reduced-fat cheese
Opt for low-sodium broth and soup
Add extra vegetables to boost nutrients
Enjoying comfort food mindfully means savoring flavor while making small adjustments that support overall wellness.
🍽 Conclusion
Fajita Chicken Casserole delivers everything you love about fajitas—savory chicken, bold seasoning, and colorful vegetables—wrapped in the comfort of a cheesy baked dish. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for feeding a crowd.
🌟 Recommendation
Serve this casserole with:
A crisp green salad with lime vinaigrette
Warm flour tortillas or tortilla chips
Fresh guacamole or salsa
A squeeze of fresh lime before serving
Whether for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. 🌮🧀
