Easy Fajita Casserole Recipe That’s Cheesy, Flavor-Packed, and Family-Approved
If you love fajitas but don’t feel like standing over a sizzling skillet, this easy Fajita Casserole recipe is about to become your new favorite weeknight dinner. It has all the Tex-Mex flavors you crave—juicy chicken, sweet bell peppers, onions, and a creamy cheesy finish—layered into one hot and bubbly baked dish. It’s hearty, packed with protein, and best of all, it only takes a few simple ingredients to bring this comfort meal to life. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking to meal prep for the week, this casserole delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Serving Size: Serves 4 to 6 |
Fajita Casserole Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium red onion, sliced
- 1 packet fajita seasoning mix (or homemade)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional, for garnish)
- 1 cup cooked rice (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook until no longer pink, about 5 to 6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the bell peppers and onions for 4 to 5 minutes until just tender.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and sprinkle the fajita seasoning over the mixture. Stir well to coat.
- In a separate bowl, combine sour cream and cream cheese until smooth. Fold in the cooked chicken and veggies.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with shredded cheeses.
- Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
- Remove from oven, sprinkle with fresh cilantro if desired, and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for Making the Best Fajita Casserole:
- Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken if you’re in a pinch. It cuts down on cook time and still packs great flavor.
- Slice your peppers and onions evenly so they cook at the same rate. A mandoline slicer works great here.
- Add a layer of rice or tortillas on the bottom of the dish for a heartier, layered texture.
- Don’t skip the cream cheese—it gives the casserole that creamy, irresistible texture that ties it all together.
- Bake uncovered so the cheese gets perfectly golden and bubbly on top.
Delicious Recipe Variations:
- Low-Carb Option: Skip the rice and load up on more peppers.
- Beef or Shrimp Swap: Replace chicken with thinly sliced steak or peeled shrimp for a different twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne to the chicken mixture before baking.
- Veggie Lovers: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or corn to bulk it up with extra vegetables.
- Cheese Switch: Use pepper jack or smoked gouda to change up the flavor profile.
Fajita Casserole FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this casserole is perfect for meal prep. Assemble everything (except the cheese topping), refrigerate for up to 2 days, then top with cheese and bake when ready.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
Is it okay to use frozen bell peppers and onions?
Yes, frozen fajita blends work just fine. Just be sure to sauté them until any excess moisture is cooked off to avoid a watery casserole.
What can I serve with fajita casserole?
A side of tortilla chips, a dollop of guacamole, or a fresh green salad works great. You can also serve it over rice or wrap it in tortillas like a burrito.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot throughout.
Related post: Creamy Rosemary Mushroom Risotto
Final Thoughts:
This fajita casserole recipe is everything you love about Tex-Mex—without all the work of stovetop cooking. It’s family-friendly, crowd-pleasing, and endlessly customizable. Once you try it, don’t be surprised if it becomes part of your regular dinner rotation. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or prepping lunches ahead of time, this is one dish that always delivers on flavor and comfort.
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