If you’re a fan of Tex-Mex cuisine, get ready to indulge in a mouthwatering dish that combines the bold flavors of fajitas with the comforting appeal of a casserole. Fajita Chicken Casserole is the perfect blend of tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, zesty tomatoes, and gooey cheese, all baked to perfection. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a satisfying weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest of palates. Join us as we dive into the delightful world of Fajita Chicken Casserole and learn how to create this crowd-pleasing dish in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups Cooked chicken, boneless, diced
- 2 Bell peppers, sliced
- 1 Yellow onion, sliced
- 1 1/4 cups Tomatoes, diced
- 1 tbsp Fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup Chicken broth
- 2 tbsp Fajita seasoning
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1 1/2 cups Mexican cheese blend, shredded
- 3/4 cup Sour cream
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
- Cook the Veggies: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the sliced bell peppers and onions until they are tender and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken with the fajita seasoning, ensuring that the chicken is evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the seasoned chicken evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer the sautéed bell peppers and onions on top of the chicken, followed by the diced tomatoes. Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the tomatoes.
- Add the Liquid: Pour the chicken broth evenly over the casserole to keep it moist during baking.
- Top with Cheese and Breadcrumbs: Sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese blend over the top of the casserole, followed by a generous layer of panko breadcrumbs for added crunch.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with a dollop of sour cream and additional chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Protein Options: Feel free to customize this recipe by using your favorite protein. Swap the chicken for steak, shrimp, or tofu for a delicious variation.
- Spice it Up: Adjust the level of heat by adding more or less fajita seasoning, or incorporating diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers for an extra kick.
- Vegetarian Version: Make this dish vegetarian-friendly by omitting the chicken and adding extra veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or corn.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use store-bought fajita seasoning? Absolutely! Store-bought fajita seasoning works well in this recipe for added convenience. However, feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to increase the baking time slightly if baking from cold.
- Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, this casserole freezes well. Simply portion out any leftovers into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
For a keto-friendly or low-carb version of Fajita Chicken Casserole, omit the breadcrumbs and use a low-carb or keto-friendly alternative such as crushed pork rinds or almond flour. Additionally, reduce the amount of onions and tomatoes to lower the carb content.
In conclusion, Fajita Chicken Casserole is a delicious and satisfying dish that brings the flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine to your dinner table. With its hearty combination of tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and gooey cheese, it’s a meal the whole family will love. Whether you’re following a keto lifestyle or simply looking for a comforting and flavorful dish, Fajita Chicken Casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. So gather your ingredients and get ready to savor the flavor of this delightful casserole!
