Pin it
This Tex-Mex-inspired fajita chicken casserole transforms your favorite fajita flavors into a comforting, family-friendly dish that comes together with minimal effort. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and bold seasonings creates a satisfying one-dish meal perfect for busy weeknights.
I created this recipe years ago when I needed to feed my hungry teenagers after soccer practice but had limited time. It quickly became their most requested dish, and now it's the first meal I make when they come home from college.
Key Ingredients
- Shredded cooked chicken: Provides a protein-packed foundation and saves time when using rotisserie chicken
- Instant rice: Eliminates the need for pre-cooking and absorbs all the wonderful flavors
- Cream of chicken soup: Creates a creamy binding texture without extra work
- Sour cream: Adds tanginess and richness to balance the spice
- Frozen onion and bell pepper blend: Offers convenience without sacrificing flavor
- Diced tomatoes with chilies: Like RoTel delivers authentic fajita flavor with a gentle kick
- Chicken broth: Ensures perfectly cooked rice with proper moisture
- Fajita seasoning packet: Provides well-balanced spices with zero measuring required
- Mexican blend cheese: Creates that irresistible melty topping and adds creamy richness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep Your Baking Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly coat your 9x13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. The spray prevents sticking and makes cleanup much easier later.
- Create The Casserole Mixture:
- Combine shredded chicken, uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, frozen peppers and onions, tomatoes with chilies including all the juice, chicken broth, fajita seasoning, and half of your cheese in a large mixing bowl. Stir thoroughly until everything is evenly distributed. Make sure no dry pockets of rice or seasoning remain.
- Transfer To Baking Dish:
- Pour the well-mixed casserole mixture into your prepared baking dish and use a spatula to spread it evenly to the corners. An even layer ensures consistent cooking throughout the dish.
- Initial Bake:
- Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes. During this time, the rice will absorb the liquid and become tender, while the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Add Cheese Topping:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly across the top. This second layer of cheese creates that irresistible golden, bubbly crust everyone loves.
- Final Bake:
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese completely melts and develops light golden spots. Watch carefully to prevent over-browning.
- Rest Before Serving:
- Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting period lets the casserole set slightly and makes it easier to portion.
Pin it
The RoTel tomatoes are truly the secret ingredient that makes this casserole special. My grandmother first introduced me to these flavorful canned tomatoes with green chilies years ago, and now I always keep a few cans in my pantry. The mild heat and authentic Southwestern flavor they provide simply cannot be replicated with regular diced tomatoes.
Meal Prep And Storage
This casserole is a meal prepper's dream. After cooling completely, portion individual servings into microwave-safe containers for ready-to-heat lunches throughout the week. The casserole will keep perfectly in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap then aluminum foil before freezing for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the microwave until steaming hot.
Easy Substitutions
This recipe welcomes personalization based on what you have available. Leftover turkey works beautifully in place of chicken after holiday meals. Basmati or jasmine rice can substitute for instant rice but may require slightly more liquid and cooking time. Dairy-free? Replace the sour cream with dairy-free yogurt alternative and use your favorite plant-based cheese substitute. For those avoiding canned soup, make a quick homemade version with butter, flour, chicken broth, and a splash of milk.
Pin it
Serving Suggestions
Transform this casserole into a complete fiesta by offering a variety of toppings. Set out small bowls of sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, lime wedges, diced jalapeños, and extra sour cream for guests to customize their portions. For a refreshing contrast, serve with a simple side salad dressed with lime vinaigrette. Complete the meal with warm tortillas for scooping or wrapping the casserole filling.
Add-In Ideas
The beauty of this casserole lies in its versatility. Try adding a can of drained black beans or corn kernels for extra texture and nutrition. Diced fresh jalapeños add wonderful heat for spice lovers. For a more authentic fajita flavor, sauté fresh bell peppers and onions instead of using the frozen blend. I sometimes add a handful of sliced black olives over the top cheese layer for extra flavor dimension.
Pin it