Chicken Fajita Casserole

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Looking to add a sizzle to your dinner table? Look no further than this delectable Chicken Fajita Casserole recipe. Bursting with flavors and easy to whip up, this dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply craving some Tex-Mex goodness, this casserole ticks all the boxes. Let’s dive into the savory journey of creating this mouthwatering delight.

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups shredded cooked chicken (about 2 large breasts)
  • 2 cups instant rice
  • 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup frozen diced onion and bell pepper blend
  • 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with chilies (like Rotel), undrained
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 (1.12-ounce) packet fajita seasoning (McCormick preferred)
  • 1 (8-ounce) package shredded Mexican blend cheese (about 2 cups)

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, frozen diced onion and bell pepper blend, diced tomatoes with chilies, chicken broth, fajita seasoning, and half of the shredded cheese. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
  3. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  4. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes or until the rice is tender and the casserole is heated through.
  5. Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top.
  6. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional few minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Once the cheese is nicely melted, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutritional Information:

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Servings: 8
  • Calories per serving: 753 kcal

Serving Tips:

  1. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or sliced green onions for a pop of color and flavor.
  2. Serve alongside traditional fajita toppings such as sliced avocado, sour cream, salsa, and shredded lettuce for a customizable experience.
  3. Pair with warm tortillas or crusty bread to scoop up every delicious bite.
  4. Serve with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans for a complete Tex-Mex feast.

Storage Tips:

  1. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  2. To reheat, place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
  3. Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated to your liking.
  4. For longer-term storage, you can freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations:

  1. Vegetarian Option: Substitute the shredded chicken with black beans or tofu for a meat-free alternative. Increase the amount of vegetables such as diced zucchini, mushrooms, or corn for added texture and flavor.
  2. Beef Fajita Casserole: Swap the chicken for cooked and shredded beef, such as flank steak or skirt steak. Follow the same recipe but adjust the cooking time if needed to ensure the beef is tender.
  3. Spicy Twist: For those who love heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture before baking. You can also top the casserole with sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.
  4. Tex-Mex Breakfast Casserole: Turn this recipe into a morning favorite by adding scrambled eggs and breakfast sausage or bacon to the mixture. Serve with a side of salsa and avocado slices for a hearty breakfast option.
  5. Low-Carb Option: Substitute the instant rice with cauliflower rice or quinoa for a lower-carb version. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the cauliflower rice is cooked through.
  6. Cheesy Variation: For an extra cheesy twist, mix in some cream cheese or add a layer of sliced cheese between the layers of the casserole before baking. You can also sprinkle extra cheese on top before serving for a gooey, cheesy finish.
  7. Seafood Fajita Casserole: Incorporate seafood such as shrimp or chunks of fish into the casserole for a fresh and flavorful twist. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the seafood is cooked through.
  8. Mushroom and Spinach Fajita Casserole: Add sliced mushrooms and fresh spinach to the mixture for a nutritious and veggie-packed version of the classic dish. Sauté the mushrooms and spinach before adding them to the casserole for added flavor.

FAQs

  1. Can I use cooked rice instead of instant rice in this recipe? Yes, you can substitute cooked rice for instant rice. However, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as the dish may require less time in the oven.
  2. Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, you can use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup and ensure that the fajita seasoning packet is gluten-free. Additionally, opt for gluten-free chicken broth to make the recipe completely gluten-free.
  3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole mixture in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Simply cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
  4. Can I freeze leftovers of this Chicken Fajita Casserole? Yes, you can freeze leftovers of this casserole. Store them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
  5. What can I serve with this Chicken Fajita Casserole? This casserole pairs well with a variety of side dishes, including tortillas, rice, beans, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with additional toppings such as avocado, salsa, or sour cream.
  6. Can I use different vegetables in this recipe? Yes, feel free to customize the vegetable blend to your liking. You can use fresh diced bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or any other vegetables you prefer.
  7. Is there a way to make this casserole spicier? Yes, you can add extra diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture for a spicier flavor. You can also top the casserole with hot sauce before serving.
  8. Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts? Yes, using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can save time. Simply shred the chicken and proceed with the recipe as directed.
  9. How can I make this casserole healthier? To make this recipe healthier, you can use low-fat or Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, opt for reduced-fat cheese, and load up on extra vegetables. You can also use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for added nutrition.

With its blend of savory chicken, aromatic spices, and creamy textures, this Chicken Fajita Casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family. So, fire up your oven and treat your taste buds to this sizzling sensation tonight!