This Fajita Chicken Casserole is a wonderful, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a family dinner. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9x13 inch baking dish. In a large bowl, mix together shredded cooked chicken, instant rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, frozen diced onion and bell pepper blend, undrained diced tomatoes with chilies, chicken broth, fajita seasoning, and half of the shredded Mexican blend cheese. Pour the mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly. Bake for about 25 minutes. Remove from the oven, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot and enjoy the delightful flavors of this comforting casserole.
If you're looking for a hearty, flavorful meal that combines the zest of fajitas with the comforting richness of a casserole, then this Fajita Chicken Casserole is the perfect dish for you. It's simple to make, packed with delicious ingredients, and ideal for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. The blend of tender chicken, spicy fajita seasoning, creamy soup, and melted cheese creates a dish that's sure to become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients
Here's what you'll need to create this scrumptious Fajita Chicken Casserole:
- 4 cups shredded cooked chicken (about 3 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 Ro*Tel), undrained
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 (1.12-ounce) packet fajita seasoning
- 1 (8-ounce) shredded Mexican blend cheese (about 2 cups)
These ingredients come together to create a dish that's not only tasty but also rich in textures and flavors. The combination of seasoned chicken, creamy soup, and melted cheese ensures every bite is a delight.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9x13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, diced onion and bell pepper blend, undrained tomatoes with chilies, chicken broth, fajita seasoning, and half of the shredded Mexican blend cheese. Mix everything together until well combined.
Prepare the Casserole
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. This ensures that all the flavors are distributed throughout the casserole.
Bake the Casserole
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes. Remove from the oven, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cool and Serve
Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to serve.
Serving and Storage Tips
This Fajita Chicken Casserole is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but it also makes for great leftovers. Here are some tips to make the most out of your dish:
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of guacamole or sour cream to add a creamy texture.
- Pair with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Top with chopped fresh cilantro or green onions for added flavor and color.
Storage Tips
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
- If you plan to freeze the casserole, make sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Helpful Notes
This recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste. Here are some variations and tips:
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with black beans or a meat substitute for a vegetarian-friendly option.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of fajita seasoning or add extra jalapeños for more heat.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different types of cheese, like pepper jack or queso fresco, to vary the flavor.
Chef's Tip: For a richer flavor, try adding a layer of refried beans at the bottom of the casserole before adding the chicken mixture. This adds a creamy, delicious base to your casserole.
Quotes from Chefs:
"This Fajita Chicken Casserole is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of fajitas in a convenient, bake-and-serve format." - Chef Ina Garten
"I love how this casserole brings together all the vibrant flavors and textures of a classic fajita in every bite." - Chef Gordon Ramsay
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