Fajita Chicken Casserole

Fajita Chicken Casserole is a bold, cheesy, and satisfying one-dish meal that brings all the zesty flavors of chicken fajitas straight to the oven. Packed with juicy chicken, colorful bell peppers, onions, spices, and melty cheese, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a hungry group. I love how easy it is to put together and how flavorful every bite turns out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it brings together everything I enjoy about fajitas with the simplicity of a casserole. It’s full of spice, texture, and comfort—and it’s all made in one dish. It’s low on cleanup, great for leftovers, and easily adaptable based on what I have in the fridge. Plus, it’s a naturally low-carb option that still feels hearty and filling.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cooked and shredded or cubed

• Bell peppers (red, green, yellow), sliced

• Onion, sliced

• Cream cheese, softened

• Sour cream

• Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese

• Fajita seasoning (store-bought or homemade)

• Olive oil

• Salt and pepper

• Optional: chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, lime wedges for serving

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

2. In a skillet, I sauté sliced bell peppers and onions in olive oil until soft and slightly caramelized.

3. In a large bowl, I combine cooked chicken with cream cheese, sour cream, fajita seasoning, and half of the shredded cheese.

4. I fold in the sautéed peppers and onions, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. I transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and top with the remaining cheese.

6. I bake uncovered for about 20–25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly and the cheese is golden on top.

7. I garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges if I want a fresh finish.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 to 6 people and takes about 40 minutes total—15 minutes of prep and 25 minutes in the oven.

Variations

• I sometimes mix in cooked rice, cauliflower rice, or black beans to make it even heartier.

• For a spicier kick, I add diced jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese.

• I switch out the chicken for ground beef or turkey when I want a change.

• If I want a lighter version, I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and reduced-fat cheese.

• I top it with crushed tortilla chips or sliced avocado for added texture and flavor.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I use the microwave for a quick warm-up or reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through. I cover it with foil to keep the cheese from over-browning. It also freezes well—I wrap portions tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I use raw chicken in the casserole?

I always use cooked chicken to ensure even cooking and better texture. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut.

Is this casserole low-carb?

Yes, without rice or tortillas, it’s naturally low in carbs and high in protein. Perfect if I’m following a keto or low-carb diet.

What’s a good substitute for cream cheese?

I use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative if I want a lighter or non-dairy option, but cream cheese gives it the best creamy texture.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Definitely. I assemble the casserole ahead, refrigerate it, and bake when I’m ready. I just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Can I use frozen peppers and onions?

Yes, I thaw and drain them well before using to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.

Conclusion

Fajita Chicken Casserole is the perfect fusion of Tex-Mex flavor and weeknight convenience. It’s creamy, cheesy, and loaded with fajita-style goodness in every bite. I love how flexible and satisfying it is, whether I’m feeding a family or prepping lunches for the week. It’s a dish I always come back to when I want something easy, flavorful, and comforting.