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This Fajita Chicken Casserole became my go-to whenever I needed comfort food without much fuss. It packs all the punchy flavors of fajitas into a creamy, cheesy bake that everyone at my table loves. It is the kind of dish that works for weeknights but still feels special enough to serve when company drops by.
The first time I made this was for a Saturday family movie night. It disappeared before the opening credits were done and my family still asks for it every couple of weeks.
Ingredients
- Shredded cooked chicken: for a hearty protein base I find rotisserie chicken has the best flavor and saves time
- Instant rice: soaks up flavor and gives the casserole its perfect texture Choose a brand you trust for fluffy results
- Cream of chicken soup: adds creamy body and binds everything together Look for low sodium if you prefer to control the salt
- Sour cream: brings tang and silkiness Use full fat for best richness
- Frozen diced onion and bell pepper blend: means no chopping and gives that classic fajita sweet pepper punch
- Diced tomatoes with chilies: add tomato flavor and a gentle kick Do not drain for extra juiciness and a little heat
- Chicken broth: keeps everything moist and infuses flavor Homemade or good-quality store bought makes a difference
- Fajita seasoning: creates all that signature zesty flavor Opt for a lower sodium packet if you’re sensitive to salt
- Shredded Mexican blend cheese: ties it all together with gooey melted goodness Freshly shredded cheese melts best
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Lightly coat your nine by thirteen inch casserole pan with oil spray so the casserole releases easily after baking and stays in nice servings.
- Mix the Casserole Base:
- Combine chicken, uncooked instant rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, frozen onion and pepper blend, undrained tomatoes with chilies, chicken broth, fajita seasoning, and half the cheese in a large mixing bowl. Stir thoroughly until you see no dry rice or pockets of unmixed soup. The mixture should look creamy and even.
- Layer in the Dish:
- Spoon the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. Spread it out to the edges and gently smooth the top for even baking.
- Bake Covered:
- Cover tightly with foil and bake in a preheated three hundred fifty degree oven for thirty five minutes. This steams the rice until it is tender and lets all the flavors mingle.
- Add Cheese and Finish Baking:
- Remove the foil carefully to release steam. Sprinkle the rest of the cheese over the casserole and slide it back in uncovered for ten more minutes. The cheese should be melted and bubbling around the edges when it is done.
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My favorite part is always the golden cheesy corners where the rice gets a bit toasty. One time my niece claimed that the crispy edges tasted just like nachos and asked for extra next time. Now I purposely overbake it a couple minutes just for her.
Storage Tips
Let the casserole cool before covering and storing in the fridge where it keeps well for up to four days. To freeze, portion into airtight containers and stash for up to three months. Warm up in the oven or microwave until heated through for a speedy meal.
Ingredient Substitutes
You can swap in leftover turkey or cooked pork for the chicken without changing the method. White or brown quick-cooking rice both work, though you may need a splash more broth for brown rice. Greek yogurt stands in fine for sour cream if that is what you have on hand.
Serving Suggestions
I usually serve this with a crisp green salad and maybe a handful of tortilla chips on the side for crunch. It also works rolled up in warm tortillas for an easy burrito night. Add slices of avocado or a dollop of extra sour cream for a Tex-Mex touch.
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Cultural Context
Casseroles like this are a staple in many American kitchens and borrow from the flavors of Tex-Mex fajitas popularized in the Southwest. It is hearty and crowd-pleasing and you will find riffs on this dish everywhere from church potlucks to family gatherings across the Midwest and South.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use freshly cooked rice instead of instant rice?
It's best to use instant rice, as it cooks properly with the casserole's liquid. Cooked rice may result in a drier texture since it absorbs less liquid during baking.
- → Are there substitutions for the cream of chicken soup?
You can use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a different base flavor, or homemade white sauce if you prefer.
- → How spicy is this dish?
The heat level depends on your diced tomatoes with chilies and the fajita seasoning. For less spice, use mild versions or omit chilies.
- → Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, assemble the casserole ahead and refrigerate, then bake as directed. Add a few extra minutes to the bake time if starting cold.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Serve with fresh green salad, sliced avocados, or warm tortillas for a complete meal with extra flavor and texture.
- → Is it freezer-friendly?
This casserole can be frozen before or after baking. Wrap tightly and reheat in the oven until hot throughout when ready to serve.