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Chicken Fajita Casserole Recipe

4.9 from 75 reviews

This Chicken Fajita Casserole is a comforting and flavorful one-dish meal featuring tender shredded chicken, instant rice, a fajita seasoning blend, and creamy layers of cheese and vegetables. Baked to perfection, it’s an easy and hearty dinner option that combines the vibrant flavors of Mexican fajitas with the convenience of a casserole.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 cups shredded cooked chicken (about 2 large breasts)
  • 2 cups instant rice
  • 1 10.5-ounce can cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup frozen diced onion and bell pepper blend
  • 1 10-ounce can diced tomatoes with chilies (like Rotel), undrained
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 1.12-ounce packet fajita seasoning (I prefer McCormick)
  • 1 8-ounce package shredded Mexican blend cheese (about 2 cups)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, uncooked instant rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, frozen diced onion and bell pepper, diced tomatoes with chilies (including juice), chicken broth, fajita seasoning, and about half of the shredded Mexican blend cheese. Stir well to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
  3. Assemble Casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly to ensure uniform cooking. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to retain moisture while baking.
  4. Bake to Cook Rice: Bake covered in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the instant rice is tender and the casserole is heated through.
  5. Add Cheese Topping: Carefully remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
  6. Melt Cheese: Return the uncovered casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
  7. Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy as a delicious and hearty meal.

Notes

  • You can swap out the frozen diced onion and bell pepper with fresh vegetables if preferred; sauté them lightly before mixing.
  • For added spice, consider adding sliced jalapeños or extra fajita seasoning.
  • This casserole can be prepared in advance and refrigerated before baking for busy weeknights.
  • Leftovers store well and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
  • Use low-fat sour cream and reduced-fat cheese for a lighter option.

Keywords: chicken fajita casserole, easy casserole recipe, baked chicken fajita, one dish meal, chicken and rice casserole