Description
This Chicken Fajita Casserole is a delicious, easy-to-make dinner packed with tender chicken, sautéed bell peppers, onions, and a flavorful fajita seasoning blend. Combined with cooked brown rice and topped with melted cheddar and mozzarella cheese, this casserole offers a comforting Tex-Mex meal perfect for weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients
Protein & Vegetables
- 1 lb chicken breast, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
Seasoning & Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 packet (1 oz) fajita seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked brown rice
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the casserole.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are browned and fully cooked through.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the sliced bell peppers and onion to the skillet with the cooked chicken. Cook together for 5 minutes or until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add Seasoning and Combine: Sprinkle the fajita seasoning over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to coat everything evenly. Add the drained diced tomatoes and cooked brown rice, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix all ingredients thoroughly.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Move the chicken and vegetable mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Cheese Topping: Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top of the casserole mixture.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese has melted completely and is bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and optionally garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve warm and enjoy your flavorful chicken fajita casserole.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breast with chicken thighs for a juicier casserole.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños when sautéing vegetables.
- Use any cooked rice you have on hand, such as white or jasmine rice, if brown rice is unavailable.
- For a lower-fat version, reduce the amount of cheese or use a reduced-fat cheese.
- The casserole can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated before baking, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.