Fajita Casserole Recipe

If you crave bold Tex-Mex flavors but want the simplicity of a one-pan wonder, this Fajita Casserole is calling your name. Each bite delivers melty cheese, tender chicken, creamy rice and a rainbow of smoky peppers, all wrapped in a flavor-packed blend of fajita goodness. It’s everything you love about classic fajitas and comforting casseroles—married into one stress-free, crowd-pleasing meal. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or jazzing up your weekday dinners, this dish promises to satisfy every craving!

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of straightforward ingredients, you can whip up a Fajita Casserole that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen! Each component is carefully chosen to bring out maximum flavor, gorgeous color, and that irresistible Tex-Mex spirit.

• Shredded Mexican cheese blend: Melts like a dream and brings a bold, creamy bite to every forkful.
• Cooked chicken breast, shredded: An easy way to add protein; leftover rotisserie chicken works beautifully here.
• Dry instant rice: Absorbs all the delicious juices and cooks up fluffy right in the casserole.
• Condensed cream of chicken soup: Lends the dish rich creaminess with very little effort.
• Sour cream: Adds tang and silkiness that packs every serving with comfort.
• Frozen mixed diced onions and bell peppers: Keeps prep simple while delivering the authentic fajita flavor and color.
• Diced tomatoes with green chilies (with juices): Brings just the right amount of zing and a pop of freshness.
• Chicken stock: Infuses the rice and chicken with deep, savory notes.
• Fajita spice mix: The secret to getting that unmistakable sizzling fajita flavor!

How to Make Fajita Casserole

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Lightly coat a 23×33 cm (9×13-inch) baking dish with nonstick cooking spray—it’s the best way to make cleanup easy and ensure those golden cheesy edges come out of the pan with zero fuss.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a generously sized mixing bowl, bring together the shredded chicken, dry instant rice, condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, frozen mixed bell peppers and onions, the entire can of diced tomatoes with green chilies (don’t drain!), chicken stock, the fajita seasoning packet, and half of your shredded Mexican cheese. Give everything a good stir until the mixture is well combined and creamy, ensuring those spices and veggies are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

Scoop the colorful mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly and use a spatula to smooth the top—you want every scoop to be packed with goodies in every bite. Trust me, this method sets the stage for cheesy, perfectly cooked layers.

Step 4: First Bake

Cover the pan tightly with foil and pop it in your preheated oven. Let the Fajita Casserole bake for 35 minutes—this allows the rice to soak up all the flavorful juices and become tender, while the cheeses and seasonings start to meld.

Step 5: Get Cheesy

After 35 minutes, remove the foil (get ready for that wave of Tex-Mex aroma!). Scatter the remaining cheese evenly over the top for a gloriously gooey finish. Slide the casserole back into the oven, uncovered, for about 10 minutes. When the cheese is fully melted and bubbly with golden edges, your Fajita Casserole is ready to steal the spotlight.

How to Serve Fajita Casserole

Garnishes

Add those finishing touches to take your Fajita Casserole over the top. Scatter fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or a dollop of extra sour cream just before serving for a pop of freshness and authenticity. Sliced green onions or jalapeño rings also pair wonderfully with all the melty, hearty layers.

Side Dishes

Fajita Casserole is a star on its own, but it’s even better when surrounded by simple sides. Think crisp green salads, warm tortillas, or classic Mexican street corn (elote) for a complete Tex-Mex feast. A small bowl of guacamole or pico de gallo always gets rave reviews too!

Creative Ways to Present

To mix things up, serve your Fajita Casserole spooned over a bed of shredded lettuce for a lighter fajita “bowl.” Or, fill warm tortillas with big scoops and wrap them up for easy Tex-Mex burritos. These leftovers even make a fun stuffed bell pepper filling—colorful and irresistible at any meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any remaining Fajita Casserole to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, giving you an even tastier lunch the next day.

Freezing

This casserole is freezer-friendly! Let it cool completely, portion into freezer-safe dishes, and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready for a quick meal, just thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

Warm your leftover Fajita Casserole in the microwave for quick single servings, or reheat covered in the oven at 175°C until hot and bubbly. Add a splash of stock or water if needed to loosen up the rice and keep everything creamy.

FAQs

Can I use beef or pork instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Shredded beef or pork both work beautifully in this Fajita Casserole. Just make sure it’s cooked and shredded before mixing it in for best texture and flavor.

What type of rice is best?

Instant rice ensures the grains cook perfectly alongside the other ingredients. If you use regular long-grain rice, you may need to adjust the baking time and liquid amounts.

Can I make Fajita Casserole vegetarian?

You sure can! Try using cooked black beans and adding extra veggies in place of the chicken. Simply swap the chicken stock for vegetable stock, and you’ll have a hearty, satisfying meatless version.

Is it spicy?

The spice level is mild to medium thanks to the fajita seasoning and diced green chilies. If you love more heat, add chili flakes or extra jalapeños to taste.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the entire casserole (without baking), cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance. Then bake as directed—just add an extra five minutes if starting from cold.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a new family favorite packed with flavor and comfort, this Fajita Casserole won’t let you down. Give it a try and get ready to fall in love with an easy dinner that tastes like a celebration every time!

Print