Description
Chicken Fajita Casserole is a flavorful baked dish that combines seasoned chicken, bell peppers, onions, and rice with bold Tex-Mex spices. This easy one-dish meal features juicy chicken and vibrant veggies layered over rice and baked to perfection, making it a comforting and satisfying dinner option.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, sliced
Grains and Liquids
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Other
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Rice Layer: Spread the uncooked rice evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a uniform base for the casserole.
- Add Broth: Pour 2 cups of chicken broth evenly over the rice to provide necessary moisture for rice cooking during baking.
- Season Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the cooked chicken with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, mixing thoroughly to evenly coat the meat.
- Layer Ingredients: Evenly distribute the seasoned chicken over the rice, then layer the sliced bell peppers and onions on top of the chicken for vibrant color and flavor.
- Drizzle and Cover: Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the layered ingredients, then cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam and moisture.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake covered for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the broth.
- Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Carefully remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top, and return the dish to the oven uncovered. Bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with chopped cilantro if desired, and serve warm with optional sides such as sour cream, salsa, or guacamole.
Notes
- Serve with sour cream, salsa, or guacamole for added flavor and creaminess.
- Brown rice may be used in place of white rice but will require a longer cooking time to become tender.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated, making this casserole a great meal prep option.
- Adjust spice levels by increasing or decreasing chili powder according to your taste preferences.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
