Chicken Fajita Casserole Recipe
Introduction
This Chicken Fajita Casserole is a flavorful, all-in-one dish that combines tender chicken with colorful bell peppers and onions. Topped with melted cheese and seasoned with classic fajita spices, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (split lengthwise, or chicken thigh)
- 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, or green, seeded and sliced into strips)
- 1 large yellow onion (or two medium yellow onions or white onion)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 oz Jack cheese (shredded, or cheddar or Havarti, about 2 cups)
- Fresh cilantro (optional garnish)
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and position the rack in the lower middle of the oven. If your oven has a convection or forced air setting, turn it on for even cooking.
- Step 2: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with olive oil. Arrange the split chicken breasts in a single layer inside the dish.
- Step 3: In a small bowl, combine cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle half of the seasoning mixture evenly on top.
- Step 4: Layer the sliced onions and bell peppers evenly over the chicken. Sprinkle the remaining seasoning over the vegetables.
- Step 5: Top the casserole with the shredded cheese, spreading it evenly across the surface.
- Step 6: Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. Use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest piece to check doneness.
- Step 7: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- Substitute chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful option.
- Add sliced jalapeños to the vegetables for a spicy kick.
- Use a mix of cheeses like cheddar and Monterey Jack for a richer taste.
- Serve with warm tortillas or over rice for a complete meal.
Storage
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts to avoid drying out the chicken.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this casserole?
It’s best to use fresh or fully thawed chicken breasts for even cooking and best texture. If using frozen, thaw completely before assembling the casserole.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a few hours ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
PrintChicken Fajita Casserole Recipe
This Chicken Fajita Casserole is a vibrant and flavorful one-dish meal combining tender chicken breasts with colorful bell peppers, onions, and a blend of classic fajita spices. Topped generously with melted Jack cheese and optionally garnished with fresh cilantro, this baked casserole offers a convenient and delicious way to enjoy the beloved fajita flavors without the need for assembling individual wraps.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, split lengthwise (or chicken thighs as an alternative)
Vegetables
- 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, or green capsicum), seeded and sliced into strips
- 1 large yellow onion (or two medium onions or white onion), sliced
Spices and Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Other Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 oz Jack cheese (shredded, or cheddar or Havarti), about 2 cups
- Fresh cilantro, optional garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), placing the rack in the lower middle position. If your oven has a convection or forced air setting, turn it on for even heat distribution.
- Prepare the Pan: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the split chicken breasts in a single layer in the dish.
- Add the Seasoning: In a small bowl, mix together the cumin powder, chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the chicken, then sprinkle half of the seasoning mixture on top.
- Add the Vegetables: Layer the sliced onions and bell peppers over the chicken breasts. Sprinkle the remaining fajita seasoning evenly over the vegetables.
- Bake in the Oven: Spread the shredded cheese on top of the vegetables and chicken. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken).
- Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve the casserole warm for a hearty and flavorful meal.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs for the breasts if you prefer a juicier result.
- Feel free to use different types of cheese such as cheddar or Havarti according to your taste.
- This casserole pairs well with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad on the side.
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken; 160°F internal temperature ensures juiciness and safety.
Keywords: Chicken fajita casserole, baked chicken fajita, fajita recipe, easy chicken dinner, Mexican casserole
