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Chicken Fajita Casserole

This easy dump-and-bake Chicken Fajita Casserole combines creamy textures, zesty spices, and savory chicken, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Calories: 380

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 cups shredded cooked chicken (about 2 large breasts or 1 rotisserie chicken) For convenience, use rotisserie chicken.
  • 2 cups instant rice (uncooked) Quick-cooking rice helps simplify meal preparation.
  • 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup (1 can) Can substitute with cream of mushroom for different flavor.
  • 1 cup sour cream Greek yogurt can be a healthier swap.
  • 1 cup frozen diced bell pepper and onion blend Fresh produce can be used as well.
  • 10 oz diced tomatoes with green chiles (undrained) Use brands like Rotel.
  • 1.5 cups chicken broth
  • 1 packet fajita seasoning (1.12 oz) Preferably McCormick.
  • 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (divided, about 8 oz) Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, uncooked instant rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, frozen peppers and onions, undrained tomatoes with chiles, chicken broth, fajita seasoning, and 1 cup of the shredded cheese. Stir everything together until well combined.
  3. Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
Cooking
  1. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes. At the 35-minute mark, carefully lift the foil and gently fluff with a fork to check if the rice is tender. If needed, re-cover and bake for another 5 to 10 minutes.
  2. Remove the foil carefully and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese evenly over the top. Return the uncovered dish to the oven for 5 to 7 minutes, just until the cheese melts.
  3. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow everything to set up nicely.

Notes

For a flavorful boost, add fresh lime juice or cilantro. This dish is versatile; you can modify the protein or veggies to suit your preference.