Name: Chicken Fajita Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast, cooked and sliced; 2 bell peppers, sliced; 1 onion, sliced; 1 teaspoon chili powder; ½ teaspoon cumin; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup salsa; 1½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you love bold Mexican-inspired flavors bundled up in a cozy, fuss-free dinner, then Chicken Fajita Casserole is about to become your go-to recipe. Imagine tender strips of chicken breast mingling with sweet bell peppers, onions, and a melty blanket of cheese—all tied together with the kick of chili spices and your favorite salsa. This hearty casserole satisfies cravings for Tex-Mex comfort food in just one dish, making it a weeknight favorite and the kind of meal everyone is thrilled to dig into!

Chicken Fajita Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simplicity is where this Chicken Fajita Casserole shines: every ingredient plays a critical part, bringing either vibrant flavor, irresistible texture, or eye-catching color to your dinner table. Gather these essentials—each one is purposeful and adds a special something to this crowd-pleasing bake!

Chicken breast (1 pound, cooked and sliced): Lean and protein-packed, chicken breast soaks up all those spicy flavors while staying juicy in the casserole.
Bell peppers (2, sliced): Choose a mix of colors for extra visual appeal and a touch of sweetness in every bite.
Onion (1, sliced): Sautéed onions lend a savory base and that classic fajita aroma everyone loves.
Chili powder (1 teaspoon): Just enough heat to wake up your taste buds without overpowering the dish.
Cumin (½ teaspoon): Earthy and warm, cumin rounds out the Tex-Mex flavor profile perfectly.
Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): An easy, mess-free way to add garlicky goodness to the mix.
Salt and pepper (to taste): It’s all about balance—season well so every component shines.
Salsa (1 cup): Your favorite salsa delivers both moisture and punchy flavor to tie everything together.
Shredded cheese (1½ cups, cheddar or Mexican blend): The glorious, melty topper that binds it all and creates that irresistible bubbly finish.

How to Make Chicken Fajita Casserole

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This gives the casserole the perfect environment to get bubbling and cheesy. Make sure all your ingredients—especially the chicken—are pre-cooked and sliced. Gathering everything in advance means the dish comes together without a hitch and bakes evenly.

Step 2: Sauté Peppers and Onions

Set a large skillet over medium heat. Add a dash of oil, then toss in the sliced bell peppers and onion. Sauté for 6 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are tender and their natural sweetness shines through. This step brightens the whole casserole and gives it that soft, caramelized fajita base.

Step 3: Combine with Chicken, Spices, and Salsa

Add your sliced chicken breast straight into the skillet along with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour in the salsa and stir everything together until well combined. As soon as you smell all those aromatics mingling, you’ll know you’re on the right track—the filling for your Chicken Fajita Casserole is now full of flavor!

Step 4: Assemble and Top with Cheese

Transfer your skillet mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the top—feel free to use a mix of cheddar and Mexican blend for maximum melt and color. Don’t skimp! The cheesy topping is what makes every serving utterly craveable.

Step 5: Bake to Bubbling Perfection

Place the casserole in the oven, uncovered, and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. You’re looking for a gooey, golden finish and bubbly edges: that’s when you know it’s ready to serve. Let it cool for just a few moments, then dive right in while the cheese is still deliciously stretchy!

How to Serve Chicken Fajita Casserole

Garnishes

Bring your Chicken Fajita Casserole to life with a flurry of fresh toppings. Try a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for brightness, sliced green onions for crunch, or a few dollops of sour cream for creaminess. Sliced avocado or even jalapeño rounds will give each plate extra color and zing. Let everyone top their own, fiesta-style!

Side Dishes

While the casserole is a complete meal on its own, it pairs beautifully with classic sides like Mexican rice, warm tortillas, or a bright corn salad. For a lighter touch, serve with a crisp green salad tossed in lime vinaigrette or roasted vegetables for extra goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn dinner into an event by serving your casserole in mini skillets or ramekins for individual portions—perfect for parties. Or, spoon the filling into crisp lettuce cups for a fresh, gluten-free option. Wrap leftovers inside warm tortillas for next-day fajita burritos—no one will ever guess they’re eating yesterday’s dinner!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Fajita Casserole stores perfectly in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors continue to meld, making every forkful just as delicious—if not more so—on day two!

Freezing

To freeze, let the casserole cool completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap or foil. It keeps well for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy it again, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Reheating

For best results, reheat individual portions in the microwave until piping hot, or pop the whole casserole back in the oven at 350°F until bubbly. Add a little more cheese before reheating if you’re feeling extra indulgent!

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds extra flavor. Just shred or slice the meat, skip the cooking step, and add it straight to the pan with the peppers, onions, and spices.

What kind of salsa works best in Chicken Fajita Casserole?

Whatever salsa you love will work beautifully—chunky, smooth, mild, or hot. A smoky chipotle salsa brings a deep richness, while a classic tomato salsa keeps things fresh and bright.

Is Chicken Fajita Casserole gluten-free?

Yes! As written, this recipe contains no gluten. Just double-check your labels on packaged spices and salsa to be safe if you’re cooking for someone with a gluten allergy.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely. Zucchini, corn, or black beans are all excellent additions for extra color, fiber, and flavor. Just swap or add to suit your preferences—it’s a very forgiving recipe!

How can I make this casserole spicier?

For more heat, try adding diced jalapeños to the sautéing vegetables or use a spicy salsa. You can also sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes over the casserole before baking.

Final Thoughts

There’s something endlessly satisfying about scooping up a bubbling serving of Chicken Fajita Casserole and watching all those colorful layers come together on your plate. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try—it’s a warm, delicious twist on a classic favorite that just might steal the dinner spotlight at your house!