Description
Looking for a flavorful twist to your dinner lineup? Look no further than this mouthwatering Chicken Fajita Casserole! Packed with juicy chicken, vibrant bell peppers, savory spices, and gooey melted cheese, this easy-to-make dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving some Tex-Mex comfort food, this recipe ticks all the boxes. Let’s dive into how to whip up this culinary delight in your own kitchen!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or thawed if frozen)
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Sour cream, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the chicken and vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken, bell peppers, and onion. Season with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until chicken is browned and vegetables are tender.
- Combine: In a large bowl, mix the cooked chicken and vegetables with cooked rice, black beans, corn, and salsa.
- Assemble the casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Once baked, garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream on top.
Notes
- Serve with Style: Present your Chicken Fajita Casserole with flair by garnishing it with freshly chopped cilantro and a dollop of sour cream. The vibrant colors and enticing aroma will make it an irresistible centerpiece on your dining table.
- Pairing Suggestions: Complement the bold flavors of the casserole with sides like crispy tortilla chips, creamy guacamole, or a refreshing side salad drizzled with lime vinaigrette. These accompaniments add depth to your meal and enhance the overall dining experience.
- Customize to Taste: Feel free to personalize your casserole by adding toppings such as sliced avocado, diced tomatoes, or jalapeños for an extra kick of heat. Let your creativity shine and tailor the dish to suit your preferences and dietary requirements.
- Leftover Love: If you find yourself with leftovers, fear not! Chicken Fajita Casserole reheats beautifully and makes for a satisfying lunch or dinner the next day. Simply store any remaining portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for Later: To extend the shelf life, you can also freeze the casserole for future enjoyment. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then portion it into individual servings and wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe container or bag and label with the date. Frozen casseroles can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven or microwave.
- Reheating Recommendations: To reheat the casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the desired portion in an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil to prevent drying out and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until warmed to your liking.