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Cheesy Chicken Fajita Casserole

Cheesy Chicken Fajita Casserole

Cheesy Chicken Fajita Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that layers seasoned chicken, sautéed bell peppers and onions, creamy cheese mixture, and soft flour tortillas to create a rich, hearty meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. This family-friendly casserole offers the vibrant taste of classic fajitas with melted cheese and velvety sour cream, easily adaptable to suit various dietary preferences.

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Vegetables

  • 2 lbs chicken breast, cubed or shredded
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
  • 1 medium onion, sliced into thin strips
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings and Oils

  • 2 tbsp fajita seasoning (blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil, for sautéing

Dairy and Binders

  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (1 cup cheddar + 1 cup Monterey Jack)

Other

  • 8 flour tortillas (approx. 6-inch size)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season generously with fajita seasoning, salt, and pepper. Slice the bell peppers and onion into thin strips. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, sauté the chicken until golden and cooked through, then remove from skillet. In the same skillet, cook the peppers and onions until tender and slightly caramelized.
  2. Mix the Creamy Filling: In a medium bowl, combine sour cream with a handful of shredded cheese and minced garlic. Stir until smooth and fragrant to create a creamy mixture that will bind the layers and add moisture.
  3. Layer the Casserole: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish and spread a thin layer of the creamy cheese mixture on the bottom. Add a layer of tortillas, followed by half of the sautéed chicken and vegetables. Spread another layer of the cheese mixture, then repeat layering with tortillas, remaining chicken and veggies, and cheese mixture. Finish with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese on top.
  4. Bake Until Bubbling and Golden: Cover the casserole loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Let cool for a few minutes before slicing to allow layers to set.

Notes

  • Use fresh homemade fajita seasoning for a bolder taste without preservatives.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan when sautéing to ensure proper browning and avoid steaming.
  • Each tortilla layer should be well coated with the cheese mixture to keep the casserole moist.
  • Allow the casserole to rest briefly before serving to help it set and make slicing easier.
  • Adjust the amount of cheese based on preference for a gooier finish.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
  • Diet: Gluten Free (use gluten-free tortillas or alternatives)

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/6th of casserole)
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 95 mg

Keywords: chicken casserole, fajita casserole, cheesy chicken, comfort food, easy dinner, Mexican casserole, weeknight meal