Fajita Chicken Casserole

Take the sizzle and spice of a classic fajita night, and turn it into a one-dish wonder. This Fajita Chicken Casserole is the easiest way to serve up that bold, Tex-Mex flavor without firing up the grill.
Loaded with shredded chicken, peppers, rice, and cheese, it’s family-friendly, freezer-ready, and full of satisfying textures and seasonings.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something cozy with a kick, this casserole is a summer staple.


🥄 Why You’ll Love This Casserole

  • Everything in one dish: Rice, protein, veggies, and cheese—check!

  • Tex-Mex comfort food: Big flavor, minimal effort.

  • Great for summer: Quick assembly, no stovetop mess.

  • Freezer-friendly: Bake now, eat later.

  • Customizable: Spice it up, bulk it out, or go low-carb.


📝 Ingredients (6 Servings)

  • 4 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie works great!)

  • 2 cups instant white or brown rice

  • 1 ½ cups chicken broth

  • 1 cup salsa (any heat level)

  • 1 red bell pepper, diced

  • 1 green bell pepper, diced

  • 1 small onion, diced

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp cumin

  • 1 tsp chili powder

  • Salt & pepper, to taste

  • 2 cups shredded Mexican blend or cheddar cheese

  • Optional toppings: sour cream, jalapeños, avocado, cilantro


⏱ Prep & Bake Time

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

  • Bake Time: 25–30 minutes

  • Total Time: 35–40 minutes

  • Yield: 6 servings


👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.

Step 2: Mix It All Together

In a large bowl, combine chicken, uncooked rice, chicken broth, salsa, peppers, onion, and seasonings. Stir well to combine.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and spread evenly. Top with half the shredded cheese.

Step 4: Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover, sprinkle remaining cheese, and bake for another 5–10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 5: Serve

Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or a splash of lime juice.


🌞 Why It’s Perfect for Summer

  • Minimal kitchen time: Quick prep + bake = more time outdoors.

  • Feeds a crowd: Perfect for parties, BBQs, or weekend get-togethers.

  • Bold flavors, light effort: No stovetop sautéing required.

  • Flexible ingredients: Use leftovers, pantry staples, or farmer’s market finds.


💡 Tips & Variations

  • Make it spicy: Add chopped jalapeños, spicy salsa, or a pinch of cayenne.

  • Add beans or corn: Black beans, kidney beans, or roasted corn make great additions.

  • Low-carb option: Swap the rice for riced cauliflower and reduce broth slightly.

  • Cheese swap: Use pepper jack for extra heat, or mozzarella for a milder flavor.

  • Meat alternatives: Ground turkey, steak strips, or plant-based chicken all work!


🧊 Storage & Meal Prep

  • Fridge: Store in an airtight container for 4–5 days.

  • Freezer: Freeze before or after baking for up to 2 months.

  • Reheat: Bake at 350°F or microwave individual portions with a splash of broth.

Perfect for prepping lunches or quick weeknight dinners!


🌯 Fajitas Meet Casserole: The Best of Both Worlds

Fajitas are known for:

  • Seasoned meat and veggies

  • Sizzling presentation

  • Bold, smoky flavor

This casserole packs all that goodness into one easy-to-bake dish. It’s like loading up your tortilla with everything you love—without the need to wrap or grill. Just scoop and serve.


🔁 More Easy Tex-Mex Dinners You’ll Love

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