Chicken Fajita Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Fajita Casserole takes all the vibrant, zesty flavors of classic fajitas and bakes them into a cheesy, comforting dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Packed with seasoned chicken, colorful bell peppers, onions, and melted cheese, this casserole is hearty, flavorful, and low on cleanup—no tortillas required.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken breasts or thighs (boneless, skinless)
bell peppers (red, green, yellow for color variety)
onion
olive oil
lime juice
garlic
chili powder
cumin
paprika
salt
black pepper
shredded Mexican cheese blend
cream cheese
sour cream (optional, for topping)
fresh cilantro (for garnish)

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

Slice the chicken, bell peppers, and onion into thin strips.

In a bowl, mix olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.

Toss the chicken and vegetables in the marinade until evenly coated.

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken and vegetables for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is mostly cooked through.

Add cream cheese to the skillet and stir until melted and well combined with the mixture.

Transfer everything to the prepared baking dish and top with shredded cheese.

Bake uncovered for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Garnish with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

Swap chicken for ground beef or turkey for a different twist.
Add cooked rice or black beans for extra heartiness.
Use dairy-free cheese and cream cheese alternatives for a lactose-free version.
Spice it up with sliced jalapeños or hot sauce mixed into the filling.
Top with crushed tortilla chips for added crunch.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
You can freeze the casserole before baking for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, just reduce the cooking time in the skillet and mix it directly with the sautéed veggies and cream cheese.

What kind of cheese works best?

A Mexican blend, cheddar, or Monterey Jack all melt well and complement the flavors.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and bake when ready.

Is this casserole spicy?

It’s mildly spiced, but you can increase or decrease the chili powder based on your preference.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, mushrooms, zucchini, or corn make great additions.

Do I need to cover it while baking?

No, bake uncovered to let the cheese brown and bubble.

Is it keto-friendly?

Yes, this recipe is naturally low in carbs.

Can I skip the cream cheese?

You can, but it adds richness and creaminess to the dish.

How do I make it vegetarian?

Replace the chicken with tofu or a mix of beans and extra vegetables.

What can I serve with it?

A side of salad, cauliflower rice, or tortilla chips pairs perfectly.

Conclusion

Chicken Fajita Casserole is a simple yet satisfying dish that brings together the flavors of sizzling fajitas in a baked, cheesy format. Whether you’re meal prepping or feeding a crowd, this recipe delivers comfort and taste in every bite.

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