Name: Chicken Fajita Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (about 2 pounds uncooked boneless skinless chicken); 3 bell peppers, thinly sliced, various colors; 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 2 tablespoons fajita seasoning (or 1 store bought packet); 2 cups shredded cheese, Colby Jack or Mexican blend; Cilantro for garnish; Optional for serving: flour tortillas, rice, desired toppings

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Introduction

This Chicken Fajita Casserole is a flavorful and easy dinner that combines all the best parts of fajitas in one comforting dish. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s packed with tender chicken, colorful peppers, and melty cheese for a satisfying meal the whole family will love.

The dish shows a single layered serving of shredded chicken mixed with bits of green and red bell peppers and some melted light orange cheddar cheese on top, giving a slightly creamy texture all over. The chicken mixture is placed on a white ridged plate, with two light beige tortilla chips resting behind the food. A gold-colored fork is partially beneath the chicken, and the scene is set on a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 cups cooked shredded chicken (about 2 pounds uncooked boneless, skinless chicken)
3 bell peppers, thinly sliced (various colors)
1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
2 cups shredded cheese (Colby Jack or Mexican blend)
2 tablespoons fajita seasoning (or 1 store-bought packet)
Cilantro for garnish
Optional for serving: flour tortillas, rice, and desired toppings

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, sliced bell peppers, sliced onion, softened cream cheese, fajita seasoning, and half of the shredded cheese. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
Step 2: Spread the mixture evenly into a 9×13 inch casserole dish. Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
Step 3: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese over the top. Return to the oven and bake for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 4: Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve warm with flour tortillas, rice, and your favorite toppings.

Tips & Variations

Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
For a spicier dish, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the mixture.
Swap out cream cheese for sour cream if you prefer a tangier creaminess.
Try different cheese blends such as cheddar or Monterey Jack for varied flavor.
Add black beans or corn for extra texture and nutrition.

Storage

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or microwave in short bursts to maintain creaminess. This casserole does not freeze well due to the cream cheese texture.

How to Serve

A close-up of a cheesy casserole being lifted with a wooden spatula reveals multiple layers. The top layer is melted golden-yellow and white cheese, thick and stretchy with gooey strands pulling away. Beneath, there is a mix of shredded chicken, soft white rice, and small diced red and green bell peppers, giving a colorful, textured look. The dish is in a white dish with a slightly crispy cheese edge visible, all set on a white marbled surface with a blurred white plate in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture and assemble the casserole a day ahead. Keep it covered in the refrigerator and bake just before serving.

What can I serve with this casserole?

This dish pairs wonderfully with warm flour tortillas, steamed rice, or a fresh side salad. Add guacamole, sour cream, or salsa for extra flavor.