It was a busy weekday evening when I first threw this together—tired, hungry, and staring at leftover chicken in the fridge. I didn’t have the energy for full-on stovetop fajitas, but I did have everything I needed to bake those bold Tex-Mex flavors into something hearty and comforting. That’s how this Fajita Chicken Casserole was born.
Juicy chicken, sweet peppers, and onions—smothered in creamy cheese and fajita spices, all bubbling together in one dish. It’s the kind of meal you’ll crave when the day’s been long and your taste buds want a fiesta.
Short Description
This cheesy Fajita Chicken Casserole packs all the flavor of sizzling fajitas into one creamy, oven-baked dish. It’s the perfect easy dinner for busy nights and Tex-Mex cravings!
Key Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow onion, sliced
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Tools Needed
- 9×13” baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Cutting board & knife
- Spoon or spatula
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13″ baking dish.
Step 2: In a large bowl, mix softened cream cheese, sour cream, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 3: Stir in the shredded chicken, sliced peppers, onions, and cheddar cheese. Mix until everything is well-coated.
Step 4: Pour the mixture into the baking dish and spread evenly. Top with Monterey Jack cheese.
Step 5: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
Step 6: Let cool slightly. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired and serve warm.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-dish wonder – Everything bakes together for easy cleanup.
- Family-friendly – Mild spice, creamy texture, and cheesy goodness.
- Great for leftovers – Tastes even better the next day.
- Versatile – Serve with rice, tortillas, or just dig in with a fork!
Tips & Variations
- Add a can of diced green chilies for extra kick.
- Swap in cooked ground beef or turkey instead of chicken.
- Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a lighter option.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about tossing a few simple ingredients together and ending up with a bubbling, cheesy casserole that fills the kitchen with mouthwatering aroma. This Fajita Chicken Casserole is a keeper—easy, cozy, and bursting with flavor. Try it once, and it’ll make its way into your regular rotation.