Easy Fajita Chicken Casserole

Introduction

If you love the sizzling flavors of chicken fajitas but want the ease of a one-pan dinner, this Fajita Chicken Casserole is about to become your go-to recipe. Imagine juicy chicken layered with colorful bell peppers, onions, rice, and a creamy sauce topped with gooey melted cheese. It’s everything you love about fajitas, baked into a warm, bubbly casserole. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even a casual family gathering, this dish delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.

My recipe story

This recipe was born out of necessity on a particularly busy evening when I had leftover shredded chicken and some colorful peppers that needed using. Instead of making traditional fajitas, I decided to turn everything into a casserole for maximum convenience. The result was so delicious that my family requested it again the very next week. Over time, I refined the flavors, balancing the creamy sauce with just the right amount of fajita seasoning. Now, it has become one of those staple recipes that everyone looks forward to when it hits the table.

Ingredient breakdown

This casserole uses simple pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients to recreate the vibrant flavor of fajitas in a baked form. The foundation is shredded cooked chicken, which makes this dish a perfect way to use up leftovers or rotisserie chicken.

Instant rice is added directly into the casserole, allowing it to cook alongside the sauce and soak up all those savory fajita flavors. Cream of chicken soup and sour cream create a creamy base, while fajita seasoning adds that signature smoky spice blend. Bell peppers and onions bring freshness, color, and crunch, balancing the richness of the sauce. Finally, shredded cheese tops everything off for that irresistible golden-bubbly finish.

Each ingredient plays an important role in delivering the hearty yet flavorful bite that makes this recipe so addictive. The best part? You can easily swap or adjust ingredients depending on what you have on hand.

Equipment you’ll need

• Large mixing bowl
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• 9×13-inch casserole dish
• Aluminum foil
• Oven mitts

Step-by-step directions

Step 1: Prepare your ingredients. Begin by shredding cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, remove the skin and bones, then shred the meat. Slice your bell peppers and onions into thin strips, just like you would for traditional fajitas. Having everything prepped before mixing makes assembly much smoother.

Step 2: Mix the base. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, fajita seasoning, and chicken broth. Stir until smooth and creamy. This mixture will be the flavorful sauce that binds all the ingredients together, giving the casserole its signature richness.

Step 3: Add rice, chicken, and veggies. Stir in the instant rice, shredded chicken, and sliced peppers and onions. Mix thoroughly to coat every ingredient in the sauce. This ensures that the rice absorbs the flavor while the vegetables soften perfectly during baking.

Step 4: Assemble the casserole. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula, then sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the top. The cheese will melt into a bubbly golden layer, creating that irresistible casserole finish.

Step 5: Bake to perfection. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and slightly browned, and the casserole is hot and bubbly.

Step 6: Rest and serve. Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the rice finish setting and makes it easier to cut neat portions. Garnish with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or sliced jalapeños if desired.

Variations & substitutions

You can easily customize this recipe based on dietary preferences or what you have available in your pantry. For a lighter version, use reduced-fat sour cream and cheese, or substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream. To make it spicier, add chopped jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar. If you prefer brown rice, precook it before adding to the casserole, since instant brown rice won’t soften as well in the oven. You can also swap the chicken for ground beef, turkey, or even shrimp for a fun twist.

Storage, freezing & make-ahead

This casserole is excellent for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover with foil and warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through. To freeze, assemble the casserole without baking, wrap tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed. For a make-ahead option, prepare the casserole the night before, refrigerate, and bake the next day.

Serving ideas & pairings

This hearty casserole is delicious on its own, but it pairs beautifully with simple sides. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness, while a side of black beans or refried beans adds extra protein and fiber. Serve with warm tortillas or tortilla chips for scooping. For drinks, try a refreshing iced tea, sparkling water with lime, or even a light margarita for a festive touch.

FAQ

Can I use regular rice instead of instant? Yes, but it must be cooked beforehand, as regular rice won’t soften enough in the oven.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble it up to a day in advance, cover, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

What type of cheese works best? Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend all work well. Pepper jack adds extra spice.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free? Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and confirm your fajita seasoning is gluten-free.

Can I add beans to this casserole? Yes, black beans or pinto beans are great additions for extra heartiness and protein.

Final thoughts

Fajita Chicken Casserole is the kind of recipe that combines convenience, comfort, and irresistible flavor all in one dish. With its creamy base, tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for family dinners or gatherings. Whether you stick to the classic version or customize it with your own favorite ingredients, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation. Try it once, and you’ll see why it’s a keeper!

Easy Fajita Chicken Casserole

---

• Author: Sarah White
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A creamy, cheesy Tex-Mex inspired casserole loaded with chicken, peppers, rice, and fajita seasoning. Perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups shredded cooked chicken (about 3 large breasts)

• 2 cups instant rice

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

• 1 cup sour cream

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1 packet fajita seasoning (or 3 tbsp homemade mix)

• 2 bell peppers, sliced

• 1 medium onion, sliced

• 2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Fresh cilantro and lime wedges, for garnish (optional)

---

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.

2. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté sliced peppers and onions until slightly softened, about 4–5 minutes.

3. In a large bowl, whisk together cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, and fajita seasoning until smooth.

4. Stir in shredded chicken, instant rice, and sautéed vegetables. Mix until evenly coated.

5. Transfer mixture into prepared casserole dish and spread evenly. Top with shredded cheese.

6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with cilantro and lime if desired.

Notes

• Use rotisserie chicken for a time-saving shortcut.

• Add black beans or corn for extra flavor and texture.

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Tex-Mex