Fajita Chicken Casserole

Introduction

I made this Fajita Chicken Casserole last night, and it was an instant hit with my family! The combination of tender chicken, flavorful spices, and creamy ingredients created a dish that was not only satisfying but also comforting. It was a busy weeknight, and this casserole came together quickly, allowing us to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. My kids couldn’t get enough of it, and I loved how versatile it was—perfect for leftovers the next day! I thought I’d share this fantastic recipe so you can enjoy it too.

Ingredients

• 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)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Casserole Dish: Lightly spray a 9×13″ casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, uncooked instant rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, frozen onion and bell pepper blend, undrained diced tomatoes with chilies, chicken broth, fajita seasoning, and about half of the shredded cheese.
4. Mix Well: Stir the mixture until all ingredients are well combined and the rice is evenly distributed throughout.
5. Transfer to Casserole Dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
6. Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with tin foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes.
7. Add Cheese: After 35 minutes, uncover the casserole, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450 kcal
• Total Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Protein: 30g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

How to Serve

• Serve hot straight from the oven.
• Top with fresh cilantro or avocado slices for added flavor.
• Pair with tortilla chips for a crunchy side.
• Offer a dollop of salsa or guacamole on the side.
• Serve with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

Additional Tips

1. Cooked Chicken: Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep time.
2. Rice Options: If you prefer, you can use brown rice; just adjust the cooking time according to package instructions.
3. Spice Level: Add more chili powder or jalapeños if you like it spicy!
4. Fresh Vegetables: Feel free to add fresh diced tomatoes or corn for extra texture.
5. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a unique flavor.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with black beans or chickpeas and use vegetable broth.
• Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower rice instead of instant rice for a lower-carb meal.
• Different Proteins: Swap out chicken for cooked ground beef or turkey for a different twist.
• Creamy Spinach Addition: Mix in a cup of frozen chopped spinach for added nutrition.
• Taco Casserole: Replace the fajita seasoning with taco seasoning and serve with taco toppings.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of Mexican-style corn or a light avocado salad.
• Pair with freshly made guacamole and sour cream.
• Offer tortilla wraps on the side for a DIY option.
• Add a side of grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
• Enjoy with a refreshing margarita or iced tea.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This casserole can be frozen before or after baking. If freezing before baking, cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use regular rice instead of instant rice?

• Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and use more liquid.

1. Is this casserole spicy?

• It has a mild spice level due to the fajita seasoning. Feel free to adjust the spices to your preference.

1. Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

• Absolutely! Just sauté the fresh veggies before adding them to the casserole.

1. What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?

• You can substitute with cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade version.

1. How can I make this dairy-free?

• Use dairy-free sour cream and a non-dairy cheese alternative.

1. Can I double the recipe?

• Yes, just use a larger baking dish and adjust cooking times if needed.

1. What can I use as a topping besides cheese?

• Consider crushed tortilla chips or fried onions for a crunchy topping.

1. How do I know when the casserole is done?

• The casserole should be bubbling around the edges and the rice should be tender.

1. Can I prepare this ahead of time?

• Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance and bake it when ready to serve.

1. What type of chicken broth is best?
   • Use low-sodium chicken broth for a healthier option.

Conclusion

This Fajita Chicken Casserole is a simple, flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. With its creamy texture, tender chicken, and vibrant flavors, it’s sure to become a staple in your household. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on your family’s tastes and dietary needs. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this recipe as much as I did—happy cooking!

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