Cheesy Chicken Fajita Casserole
Ingredients:
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 packet fajita seasoning mix
2 tbsp olive oil
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 large onion, sliced
1 cup sour cream
1 cup salsa (mild or spicy based on preference)
2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
1 ½ cups cooked rice (optional, for layering)
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Tortilla chips (for serving)
Directions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and fajita seasoning mix. Sauté for about 6-8 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink.
Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add sliced bell peppers and onions. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are soft and slightly caramelized. Remove from heat.
Prepare the Casserole Base:
In a medium bowl, mix the sour cream and salsa until well combined. Spread a thin layer of this mixture on the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.
Layer the Ingredients:
Layer the cooked chicken on top of the sour cream mixture, followed by the sautéed vegetables. Add the cooked rice if using (this adds an extra hearty layer but is optional).
Pour the remaining sour cream and salsa mixture over the layers.
Add Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded Mexican blend cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake:
Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, and serve with tortilla chips on the side.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: Approx. 400 kcal per serving | Servings: 6-8