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Chicken Fajita Casserole with Rice and Cheese

Chicken Fajita Casserole with Rice and Cheese
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Chicken Fajita Casserole with Rice and Cheese is a quick and easy one-pan meal that combines tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, fluffy rice, and melted cheese with bold fajita spices. Perfect for busy weeknights, this family-friendly dish delivers comforting flavors and minimal cleanup, making it an ideal cheesy, southwestern-inspired casserole that satisfies every appetite.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

Vegetables

  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • Optional: diced jalapeños, zucchini, corn, or spinach for variations

Carbohydrates

  • 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)

Seasonings & Flavorings

  • 2 tablespoons fajita seasoning (blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, oregano)
  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Dairy

  • 2 cups shredded cheese (Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
  • Optional: ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess

Other

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter for sautéing

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and slice the bell peppers and onion. Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chicken until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken, then sauté the bell peppers and onions until tender but still slightly crisp.
  2. Mix the Fajita Flavors with Rice: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed chicken, peppers, and onions. Add fajita seasoning and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavor.
  3. Assemble the Casserole: Grease a casserole dish and evenly spread the chicken and rice mixture inside. Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously on top to create a melty, golden crust after baking.
  4. Bake Until Bubbly: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted and lightly browned. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to set and enhance the flavors.

Notes

  • Use day-old rice for best texture and to avoid a mushy casserole.
  • Do not overcook vegetables; keep peppers and onions slightly crisp for freshness.
  • Season gradually with fajita spice and taste as you go to keep flavors balanced.
  • Mix some cheese into the filling for extra creaminess throughout the casserole.
  • Allow casserole to rest after baking for easier slicing and enhanced flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chicken fajita casserole, cheesy casserole, fajita rice bake, easy dinner, one-pan meal, family-friendly, southwestern casserole

Find it online: https://juliaglam.com/chicken-fajita-casserole-with-rice-and-cheese/