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- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken - 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced - 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced - 1 medium onion, thinly sliced - 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed - 1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or frozen) - 1 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot, depending on preference) - 1 teaspoon chili powder - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 8 small tortillas, cut into strips or triangles - 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend) - Fresh cilantro, finely chopped (for garnish) - Sour cream (for serving) Gathering these ingredients brings the flavors of Mexico right to your kitchen. I love using fresh bell peppers for a crisp bite. The mix of red and green adds color and nutrition. Shredded chicken makes this dish quick and easy. You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken. Black beans add protein and fiber. They pair well with corn for a sweet touch. The salsa brings zest, and the spices create warmth. I use chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and smoked paprika for a flavorful kick. These spices are key to the dish’s heartiness. Tortillas form the base of the casserole. I recommend using small ones for easy layering. Finally, shredded cheese melts beautifully on top. It creates a delicious, gooey layer. Garnishing with cilantro and sour cream adds freshness. These ingredients make this dish a savory and simple delight! {{ingredient_image_2}} - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). - Gather and measure all ingredients. This makes cooking easier. - In a large bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, sliced bell peppers, sliced onion, black beans, corn, salsa, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. - Stir well. This ensures even coating with salsa and spices. You want every bite to burst with flavor. - Start with half of the tortilla strips. Spread them evenly in a 9x13 inch casserole dish. - Pour half of the chicken and veggie mixture over the strips. Spread it evenly. Then sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top. - Add the remaining tortilla strips as the second layer. Follow with the rest of the chicken mixture. Top with the remaining cheese. Make sure to cover it well. - Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil. This helps keep moisture in. - Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. - After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Continue baking for an extra 10-15 minutes. Check for bubbly, golden cheese. - Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes slicing easier. - Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro for color and flavor. Serve with sour cream for extra creaminess. - Choosing the right spices for authentic flavor: Use chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. These spices give a rich taste. Adjust the amounts based on your spice preference. A little can go a long way! - Ensuring chicken stays moist: Use cooked shredded chicken for the best results. Mixing it with salsa and veggies keeps it juicy. Avoid overcooking when baking, as this can dry it out. - Pairing with side dishes: This casserole goes well with rice or a fresh salad. Both add balance to the meal. You can also serve it with tortilla chips for crunch. - Recommended drinks to serve: Pair this dish with a cold drink. Try lemonade or iced tea for a refreshing touch. For adults, a light beer or margarita works nicely too. - Family-style vs. individual plating: Serve it directly from the dish for a cozy family meal. For a more formal setting, plate individual portions. - How to add a pop of color: Top the casserole with fresh cilantro. Add a lime wedge on the side for a bright touch. A sprinkle of cheese can also enhance the look. Pro Tips Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker preparation, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds great flavor! Customize Your Heat: Adjust the spiciness of your casserole by choosing the salsa and chili powder according to your preference—mild for family-friendly, or hot for a spicy kick! Vegetarian Option: To make this casserole vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and add extra beans or sautéed vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added texture and flavor. Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick meal! {{image_4}} You can switch out the chicken for different proteins. Beef is a great choice. It adds a rich flavor. If you prefer a plant-based meal, use tofu instead. Tofu absorbs spices well, making it tasty. You can also try a veggie-only version. Just load up on more bell peppers, beans, and corn. This option is healthy and colorful. Cheese can change the taste and feel of your casserole. Cheddar gives a sharp flavor, while Monterey Jack adds creaminess. A Mexican blend offers a nice mix of flavors. You can even use a spicy cheese to add a kick! The type of cheese you choose affects how gooey or crumbly your dish gets. A good melting cheese is key for that perfect bite. Adjust the spice level to match your taste. Start with mild salsa for a gentle heat. If you want more spice, choose medium or hot salsa. You can also add fresh jalapeños for extra heat. Just slice them thin and mix them in. This makes the dish exciting. Everyone can enjoy a flavor that suits them best! To store leftovers, let the casserole cool first. Place it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. For best taste, eat it within this time. When storing, cover the top with plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh. To keep the casserole fresh, avoid leaving it out at room temperature for too long. Always refrigerate it within two hours after serving. This helps prevent any bacteria growth and keeps the flavors intact. If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great choice. First, let the casserole cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. You can also use a freezer-safe container. It can stay good in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 30-40 minutes or until it's hot all the way through. In the fridge, the Fajita Chicken Casserole lasts about three days. In the freezer, it’s safe for up to three months. After these times, the taste may fade or it may not be safe to eat. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating. Yes, you can make this casserole ahead of time. To do this, prepare the casserole up to the baking step. Cover it tightly and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you are ready to bake, just add extra time to the cooking process. This ensures that it heats through evenly. Small corn or flour tortillas work best for this dish. Corn tortillas give a nice crunch, while flour tortillas add a softer texture. Both options blend well with the chicken and veggies. Just make sure to cut them into strips or triangles for easy layering. Absolutely! You can use turkey, beef, or even tofu. For a vegetarian option, try black beans or lentils. Each protein will change the flavor slightly, so choose one that you love. Just make sure to cook any raw meats before adding them to the casserole. To add more heat, use a spicier salsa or add diced jalapeños. You can also sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes. If you like smoky flavors, try adding chipotle powder. Adjust the spices to fit your taste for a custom kick. Great sides to serve with this casserole include: - Mexican rice - Refried beans - Simple green salad - Grilled corn on the cob - Chips and guacamole These sides complement the flavors in the casserole and make for a full meal. Enjoy! This post covered how to make a Fajita Chicken Casserole. We went through the ingredients, from chicken and spices to cheese and garnishes. I shared step-by-step directions for preparation, mixing, and baking. You learned tips for great flavors and how to serve it right. Remember, feel free to change ingredients based on your taste. Enjoy making this dish, and have fun with your cooking!

Fajita Chicken Casserole Fiesta

A delicious and hearty casserole featuring shredded chicken, bell peppers, black beans, and cheese, perfect for a family meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 6
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
  • 1 unit red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 unit green bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 unit medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
  • 1 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot)
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 8 small tortillas, cut into strips or triangles
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
  • 1 unit fresh cilantro, finely chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 unit sour cream (for serving)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.
  • Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked shredded chicken, sliced red and green bell peppers, sliced onion, black beans, corn, salsa, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated in the spices and salsa.
  • Layer the Casserole: In a 9x13 inch casserole dish, spread half of the tortilla strips in an even layer across the bottom.
  • First Layer of Filling: Pour half of the chicken and vegetable mixture over the tortilla strips, spreading it evenly to cover. Then sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over this layer.
  • Repeat Layers: Add the remaining tortilla strips as the second layer, followed by the rest of the chicken and vegetable mixture. Top it off with the remaining shredded cheese, ensuring a good layer of cheese on top to achieve that delicious, gooey finish.
  • Bake the Casserole: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture, and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes.
  • Add the Finishing Touch: After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden in color.
  • Set Before Serving: Once baked, allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow it to set for easier slicing.
  • Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve with a generous dollop of sour cream on the side for added creaminess.

Notes

Serve with lime wedges for an extra burst of freshness.
Keyword casserole, chicken, easy dinner, fajitas