Cheesy Chicken Fajita Casserole
This Cheesy Chicken Fajita Casserole is a quick and flavorful Tex-Mex inspired dish combining tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, zesty fajita spices, and a blend of melty cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, all baked into a comforting, hearty casserole perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free tortillas)
Protein and Base
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 4 flour tortillas, cut into strips
Vegetables and Seasonings
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 tablespoon fajita seasoning (blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Dairy
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced chicken breast along with sliced bell peppers and onions. Sprinkle with fajita seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sauté until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender yet still vibrant, about 7-10 minutes.
- Assemble the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a casserole dish, evenly layer the tortilla strips to cover the bottom. Spread half of the cooked chicken and vegetable mixture over the tortillas, then sprinkle with half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Repeat this layering process finishing with a final cheese topping.
- Add Sour Cream and Bake: Dollop the sour cream over the top of the casserole and gently swirl it in with a spoon to form creamy pockets. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is browned and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Remove casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes to firm up for easier slicing. Serve with optional garnishes or side dishes as desired.
Notes
- Use fresh bell peppers and onions for vibrant color and crispness.
- Do not overcook chicken to ensure it remains tender and juicy inside the casserole.
- Combining sharp cheddar with mozzarella provides the best balance of flavor and meltiness.
- Layer ingredients evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.
- Allow casserole to rest before serving to help hold its shape when sliced.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/6 of casserole)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: chicken casserole, fajita casserole, cheesy chicken bake, Tex-Mex casserole, weeknight dinner, one-pan meal