One-Pan Chicken Fajita Casserole Recipe: Cheesy, Easy, and Bursting with Flavor

Craving something that's rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make? This Chicken Fajita Casserole recipe will quickly become one of your go-to comfort meals. With tender chicken, perfectly sautéed peppers, a zesty blend of spices, and a gooey layer of melted cheese, every bite feels like a fiesta in your mouth.

Photo byInsanelyGoodRecipes

This dish has become a favorite in my kitchen because it’s the perfect combination of simplicity and deliciousness. I first tried a variation of this dish when I wanted to make something filling but didn’t have time for complicated prep. The result? A casserole that became an instant hit with family and friends. Trust me, this recipe will have your loved ones asking for seconds. If you're looking for a quick, flavorful meal that brings the Tex-Mex flair straight to your kitchen, this Chicken Fajita Casserole is the answer!

I first found this incredible recipe over at Insanely Good Recipes, and I’m thrilled to share it with you today. Be sure to check out their site for even more delicious meals!

A Little History of the Fajita

The fajita is a staple of Tex-Mex cuisine, originating from the ranchlands of Texas, where workers would make meals from inexpensive cuts of beef, grilling them up with peppers and onions. Over time, this iconic dish evolved into the fajitas we know and love today, including versions with chicken, seafood, and even casseroles like this one. This Chicken Fajita Casserole takes the best elements of fajitas and adds a creamy twist, making it a hearty dish that’s ideal for weeknight dinners.

The Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons homemade fajita seasoning (or 1 packet store-bought)
• 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chiles, undrained
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar or Monterey jack cheese
• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with half of the fajita seasoning. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until it’s browned and cooked through, roughly 6-8 minutes. Once done, transfer the chicken to the prepared baking dish.
3. Sauté the Veggies: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and garlic, and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the remaining fajita seasoning to coat the veggies with flavor.
4. Combine in the Casserole Dish: Pour the sautéed vegetable mixture over the chicken in the baking dish. Add the undrained diced tomatoes and green chiles, mixing everything together.
5. Add the Creaminess: Dot the softened cream cheese evenly over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
6. Bake to Perfection: Bake the casserole uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and the cheese is melted to golden perfection.
7. Garnish and Serve: Before serving, sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for an added burst of flavor. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes so it can set before digging in. Enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Fajita Casserole:

• Homemade Fajita Seasoning: If you’ve got the time, making your own fajita seasoning can really elevate the flavors. It typically includes a mix of cumin, chili powder, paprika, and garlic powder.
• Cream Cheese Tip: Make sure your cream cheese is softened before adding it to the casserole. This will ensure that it melts smoothly into the dish, creating a creamier texture.
• Freshly Shredded Cheese: Grating your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded adds a better texture and melt. The pre-packaged versions often contain anti-caking agents that prevent them from melting as smoothly.

Variations to Try:

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for black beans or tofu, and you’ve got a delicious veggie-friendly version of this dish.
• Low-Carb Option: To keep it low-carb, skip the canned tomatoes with chiles, or replace the cream cheese with a low-fat Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy twist.
• Spicier Kick: If you love heat, toss in some sliced jalapeños or extra chili powder to spice things up.

This casserole pairs perfectly with a simple side of Spanish rice or a crisp green salad. It’s a crowd-pleaser that delivers restaurant-quality flavors in the comfort of your own home.

Did you enjoy this Chicken Fajita Casserole recipe? If so, let me know in the comments, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family! Hit the follow button for more delicious, easy-to-make recipes like this one!