This Chicken Fajita Casserole is a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings together tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, black beans, corn, and salsa, all baked to perfection with a generous topping of melted cheddar cheese. It’s a delicious twist on traditional fajitas, conveniently baked in a casserole dish for easy serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Easy to make and perfect for a family dinner or gathering.
- Packed with vibrant colors and bold flavors.
- Versatile and customizable – you can adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
- Great for meal prep and leftovers taste just as delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 lbs chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or thawed if frozen)
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Sour cream, for serving
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the chicken and vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, bell peppers, and onion. Season with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and the vegetables are tender.
- Combine: In a large bowl, mix the cooked chicken and vegetables with the cooked rice, black beans, corn, and salsa.
- Assemble the casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream on top.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings
Storage:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Recipe Tips:
- Feel free to customize this casserole with your favorite toppings such as avocado, jalapeños, or a squeeze of lime juice.
- You can make this recipe ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting with a cold dish.
- For a lighter version, you can use low-fat cheese or skip the cheese altogether for a dairy-free option.
Enjoy this delicious and comforting Chicken Fajita Casserole with your family and friends!