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Fajita Chicken Casserole

A comforting blend of tender chicken, colorful peppers, and creamy cheese baked to perfection, this Ultimate Fajita Chicken Casserole is a Tex-Mex favorite that brings family together around the dinner table.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

Chicken and Veggies
  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips Opt for high-quality organic sources.
  • 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper thinly sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper thinly sliced
  • 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
Flavor Boosters
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 packet (1 ounce) fajita seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Creamy Ingredients
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes Choose full-fat for a better taste.
  • 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup Can be substituted with a creamy soup alternative.
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup salsa Draining excess liquid can prevent a watery casserole.
  • 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend, divided Freshly shredding cheese is recommended for optimal melting.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
  2. Cut chicken breasts into thin strips, about half an inch wide. In a small bowl, mix the fajita seasoning, garlic powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss the chicken strips in the seasoning blend until evenly coated.
Cooking
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken strips and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until lightly browned but not fully cooked. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet over medium heat, add the sliced bell peppers and onions, cooking for 4 to 5 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and salsa, whisking until smooth.
  4. Add the seared chicken strips and sautéed peppers and onions to the creamy mixture, stirring until well combined. Gently fold in one cup of the shredded cheese blend.
  5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining one cup of shredded cheese over the top.
  6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
  7. Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Garnish with fresh cilantro and avocado slices. Serve with chilled margaritas or iced tea. Ideal for family game nights or gatherings.