Chicken Fajitas Casserole (Printer-Friendly Version)
Tender chicken, peppers, and melted cheese combine for a bold, comforting baked dish with a spicy flair.
# Ingredients Needed:
→ Protein
01 -
1 pound cooked boneless, skinless chicken breasts, shredded
→ Vegetables
02 -
1 small green bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
03 -
1 small red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
04 -
1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
→ Dairy
05 -
8 ounces cream cheese, softened, cut into pieces
06 -
8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese
→ Oils and Seasonings
07 -
1 tablespoon olive oil
08 -
1.5 tablespoons fajita seasoning mix
09 -
1/4 teaspoon salt
10 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Garnish
11 -
Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
# Step-by-Step Directions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
02 -
Shred the cooked chicken breasts and place them in a large mixing bowl.
03 -
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add bell pepper strips and sliced onion, sprinkle with salt, and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until softened, stirring frequently.
04 -
Remove skillet from heat. Add sautéed vegetables to the shredded chicken in the mixing bowl and set aside.
05 -
In a separate bowl, combine softened cream cheese, half of the shredded cheddar, fajita seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and thoroughly combined.
06 -
Stir the cheese mixture into the chicken and vegetable bowl until well combined.
07 -
Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
08 -
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until hot, bubbly, and cheese is melted.
09 -
Remove from oven and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley before serving.
# Helpful Hints:
01 -
Letting the casserole rest a few minutes after baking allows flavors to meld and makes serving easier.
02 -
Use softened cream cheese to ensure a smooth and creamy mixture without clumps.