Chicken Fajita Casserole Recipe
If you’re craving all the bold flavors of chicken fajitas but want a hearty, family-friendly dish that’s easy to make ahead, this Chicken Fajita Casserole is your answer. Packed with juicy chicken, colorful bell peppers, tender rice, and melted cheese, it’s the perfect comfort food for weeknight dinners or potlucks.
Time Required
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs chicken breast, diced
- 1 ½ cups uncooked rice (long grain or basmati)
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk (or heavy cream for creamier texture)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (for garnish)
Tools Needed
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 9×13-inch casserole dish | For baking the casserole |
| Large skillet | To sauté chicken and vegetables |
| Wooden spoon/spatula | For mixing ingredients |
| Measuring cups & spoons | To measure rice, broth, and spices |
| Knife & cutting board | For chopping chicken and vegetables |
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Set oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until lightly browned (not fully cooked through). Remove and set aside.
- Sauté veggies: In the same skillet, add sliced peppers, onion, and garlic. Cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened.
- Assemble casserole: Spread uncooked rice evenly in the baking dish. Layer with cooked chicken, sautéed veggies, chicken broth, and milk. Stir lightly to combine.
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the top.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with a side salad or warm tortillas.
Nutrition (per serving, approx. 6 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 460 kcal |
| Protein | 32 g |
| Carbohydrates | 38 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 680 mg |
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked rice?
Yes, reduce broth to 1 cup and baking time by 10 minutes.
What cheese works best?
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend are all great options.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble up to a day before, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
How can I make it spicier?
Add jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or use spicy cheese.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Fajita Casserole combines everything you love about sizzling fajitas into one cheesy, comforting dish. It’s quick to prep, easy to customize, and sure to become a family favorite.
