Fajita Chicken Casserole Recipe – A Flavor-Packed Family Dinner

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

1. In a mixing bowl, combine all the fajita seasoning ingredients (chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper).
2. Add the chicken strips to the bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Toss well to evenly coat each piece with the seasoning.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the seasoned chicken strips for about 5-6 minutes, until lightly browned but not fully cooked through (they’ll finish cooking in the oven). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed and sauté the sliced bell peppers and onions for about 3-4 minutes, until they’re slightly tender but still crisp. Set aside.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

1. Layer the chicken strips in the prepared baking dish, followed by a layer of the sautéed bell peppers and onions.
2. Evenly spread the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies over the peppers and onions for added flavor and moisture.
3. Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the top, ensuring even coverage for a gooey, cheesy topping.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

1. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

1. Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This will make it easier to scoop and serve without losing its shape.
2. Serve hot, with warm tortillas, tortilla chips, or over a bed of rice.