Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole Recipe

Looking for a simple and delicious dish? This Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole Recipe is just what you need for lunch or dinner! I remember one time, my son Jake insisted we have a ‘fiesta night’ at home. We whipped up this casserole and had a blast, dancing around the kitchen while it baked. It’s a fun and tasty way to bring the family together.

Why You’ll Love It

• It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• The flavors are vibrant and satisfying, pleasing even the pickiest eaters.
• You can customize it with your favorite veggies and toppings.

Pure Comfort

This casserole is pure comfort food. With tender chicken, colorful peppers, and gooey cheese, it warms you from the inside out. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftovers!

What You Need

• 1 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts – cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 1 large yellow onion – diced
• 1 1 red bell pepper – sliced
• 1 1 green bell pepper – sliced
• 2 2 cloves garlic – minced
• 1 1 tbsp chili powder – for seasoning
• 1 1 tsp cumin – for seasoning
• 1 1 can (15 oz) black beans – rinsed and drained
• 1 1 cup corn – frozen or canned
• 1 1 cup salsa – your favorite kind
• 1 8 oz tortilla chips – crushed
• 2 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – or Mexican blend
• 1 1/4 cup fresh cilantro – chopped, for garnish

Time to Cook

Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 30 minutes | Total: 45 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance.

Steps to Make It

1. Preheat your oven to 350 °F. This step is crucial for a perfectly baked casserole. You’ll want it nice and hot before you pop the dish in.
2. In a large skillet, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sliced bell peppers, cooking until they soften and the colors brighten, about 5 minutes. This will fill your kitchen with a lovely aroma.
3. Next, stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, and cumin. Cook for another minute until fragrant. This adds a wonderful depth of flavor to your dish.
4. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, cooking until they turn golden brown and are no longer pink inside, about 7-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to cook evenly.
5. Once the chicken is cooked, mix in the black beans, corn, and salsa. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
6. In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the crushed tortilla chips on the bottom. Then, pour the chicken mixture over the chips, spreading it out evenly.
7. Top with the remaining tortilla chips and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
8. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. This adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish.

Make It Perfect

• For a spicier kick, add jalapeños to the skillet with the onions and peppers.
• If you want to make it healthier, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream when serving.
• Feel free to swap out the chicken for cooked ground turkey or beef.

Mix It Up

• Try adding different vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
• For a vegetarian version, use chickpeas instead of chicken.
• You can also use quinoa instead of tortilla chips for a gluten-free option.

Perfect Partners

• Serve with a side of guacamole for a creamy contrast.
• Pair with a fresh green salad to balance the flavors.
• A light Mexican rice goes well as a side dish too.

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FAQs

Conclusion

This Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole Recipe is a fantastic choice for a simple, yummy dinner. It’s perfect for busy nights and sure to please everyone at the table. Give it a try, and you might just find it becoming a family favorite!