Description
A flavorful and cheesy Chicken Fajita Casserole combining tender seasoned chicken, sautéed bell peppers and onions, creamy sour cream, and melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses baked to golden perfection. This easy one-dish meal brings all the delicious flavors of fajitas into a comforting casserole perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Vegetables
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium red onion, sliced
Seasonings and Dairy
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 packet fajita seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade blend)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Chopped cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Season the chicken: In a large bowl, toss the bite-sized chicken pieces with olive oil and the fajita seasoning until all pieces are evenly coated for maximum flavor.
- Cook the chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes until the chicken is lightly browned but not fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside temporarily.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced red, green, and yellow bell peppers along with the red onion. Sauté them for 4–5 minutes until they become slightly softened, releasing their natural sweetness and flavor.
- Prepare the creamy mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a flavorful creamy base.
- Combine ingredients: Add the partially cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the sour cream mixture. Stir everything together carefully until well combined, ensuring the cheese and spices are evenly distributed.
- Assemble the casserole: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese and all of the Monterey Jack cheese evenly on top for a rich, cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and golden brown.
- Cool and garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly to set. Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions if desired before serving.
Notes
- Serve with rice, warm tortillas, or tortilla chips for a complete and satisfying meal.
- To add more texture and flavor, mix in black beans or corn before baking.
- This casserole is excellent for meal prep and reheats very well throughout the week, making it convenient for busy schedules.
