Chicken Fajita Casserole Easy & Flavorful Tex-Mex Dinner

Introduction To Chicken Fajita Casserole

Chicken Fajita Casserole is a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make one-dish meal that takes all the delicious components of classic chicken fajitas and layers them into a hearty casserole. This recipe combines tender, seasoned chicken strips with sautéed bell peppers and onions, melted cheese, and a creamy sauce, all baked together to create a perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and cheesy goodness. Unlike traditional fajitas that require individual cooking and assembly.

This casserole simplifies dinner preparation while delivering all the vibrant Tex-Mex flavors you love.

Why is this Chicken Fajita Casserole so popular?

Chicken Fajita Casserole has become popular due to its simplicity, versatility, and flavor-packed profile. It condenses the favorite elements of fajitas into a bake-and-serve format, cutting down on cooking time and cleanup. The dish appeals to families looking for quick, wholesome dinners and to Tex-Mex fans craving bold, satisfying meals.

Its popularity also comes from being adaptable—vegetables can be swapped or added, spice levels adjusted, and it works well as leftovers or meal prep. The casserole format appeals to busy cooks who want a one-pan meal that’s both comforting and exciting. Its cheesy, saucy, and colorful nature makes it a hit with kids and adults alike, perfect for casual dinners or potlucks.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Fajita Casserole:

You’ll love this recipe because it’s a delicious, fuss-free way to enjoy all the smoky, zesty flavors of chicken fajitas in a convenient casserole form. The combination of juicy chicken, tender sautéed peppers and onions, creamy sauce, and melted cheese creates a mouthwatering harmony of textures and tastes. The casserole is customizable to suit your preferred spice level and ingredients, making it perfect for picky eaters or adventurous foodies.

It’s easy to prepare ahead and bake when needed, saving time on busy days. Plus, it pairs beautifully with simple sides or can be eaten on its own for a filling, satisfying meal. The blend of Tex-Mex spices with comforting cheese and chicken makes it a crowd-pleaser every time.

Ingredients For Chicken Fajita Casserole:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, sliced into strips
• 2 bell peppers (red and green), sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp oregano
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish
• Optional: cooked rice or tortilla chips for serving

How To Make Chicken Fajita Casserole:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced chicken, season with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, add sliced bell peppers, onions, and garlic. Sauté until tender and slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes.
Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and sour cream. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
Step 5: Spread half of the chicken and vegetable mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the layer. Repeat with the remaining chicken mixture and top with the remaining cheese.
Step 6: Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden on top.
Step 7: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges. Enjoy with rice, tortillas, or tortilla chips.

Variation:

This casserole is highly adaptable. Add black beans or corn for extra texture and nutrition. Swap chicken for steak or shrimp to change the protein. For a spicy kick, add jalapeño slices or increase the chili powder. Use pepper jack cheese for more heat or mozzarella for milder creaminess. You can also make it low-carb by serving over cauliflower rice or wrapped in lettuce leaves. Incorporate fresh diced tomatoes instead of canned for a fresher taste. Add avocado slices or guacamole on the side for creaminess. For a smoky flavor, use chipotle powder instead of regular chili powder.

Cooking Note:

Make sure to cook the chicken thoroughly before baking to ensure tenderness. Do not overcook the bell peppers and onions during sautéing—they should remain slightly crisp to retain texture. When mixing the sour cream and tomatoes, fold gently to maintain the creamy texture. Use a baking dish large enough to avoid overcrowding, ensuring even cooking. Keep an eye on the cheese during baking to avoid burning. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking for easier serving.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve Chicken Fajita Casserole with warm flour or corn tortillas to make fajita wraps. Pair with cilantro lime rice or Mexican street corn for a complete meal. A side of guacamole, salsa, and sour cream complements the dish beautifully. For a lighter option, serve over a bed of mixed greens as a fajita salad. Add tortilla chips for crunch or mix into the casserole for extra texture. Garnish with fresh lime wedges and chopped cilantro to brighten flavors. This casserole is perfect for casual dinners, potlucks, or meal prep lunches.

Tips:

Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juicier meat or breasts for leaner protein. Slice vegetables uniformly for even cooking. Marinate chicken briefly in spices and lime juice for added flavor. If you prefer, assemble the casserole ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Reheat leftovers covered with foil to keep moisture. Use freshly grated cheese for better melting. Adjust spice levels to your preference, and taste before baking to balance seasoning.

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

30 minutes

Total Time:

45 minutes

Nutritional Information:

Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Protein: 38g
Sodium: 550mg
Fats: 20g

Conclusion:

Chicken Fajita Casserole brings together the bold, smoky flavors of fajitas with the convenience of a baked casserole, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or party dish. Its combination of tender chicken, sautéed peppers and onions, creamy sauce, and melty cheese delivers a satisfying and comforting meal with minimal effort. Highly customizable and easy to prepare, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that works well for families, meal prep, and casual entertaining. Serve it with your favorite sides and garnishes for a delicious Tex-Mex feast everyone will love.