Save
This chicken fajitas casserole is a foolproof way to enjoy all the flavors of classic fajitas without standing over the stove. It comes together quickly and fills the kitchen with irresistible smells making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need something comforting and easy.
I put this together after craving fajitas but without the fuss of assembling wraps and it instantly became a family favorite on busy evenings.
Ingredients
- Olive oil for sautéing: provides a light base and helps everything brown nicely choose extra virgin for the best flavor
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts: offer tender, juicy protein thighs tend to stay moister when cooked but breasts work well too
- Bell peppers sliced and colorful: add sweetness and crunch fresh firm ones with vibrant skin make the dish pop visually
- Small onion sliced: builds depth with natural sweetness pick a firm onion with no soft spots
- Fajita seasoning mix: brings the signature smoky spicy flavor using a good quality blend or homemade mix ensures complexity
- Sour cream: adds tang and creaminess helps balance the spices opt for full fat if possible for richer texture
- Cream cheese: softens the sauce making it velvety smooth use room temperature to avoid lumps
- Cheddar cheese grated: melts into a golden bubbly topping choose sharp for more flavor contrast
Instructions
- Build The Base:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering then add the chicken pieces. Cook thoroughly, stirring occasionally, about 8 to 10 minutes until browned and cooked through. This step seals in the juices and forms the base protein layer.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- Add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the same skillet and cook over medium heat for about 5 to 7 minutes until they soften but still hold a little bite. This cooks the vegetables just right to blend with the chicken without turning mushy.
- Combine The Filling:
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the vegetables. Sprinkle the fajita seasoning over and stir in the sour cream along with the cream cheese until everything is well combined and creamy. Make sure to stir thoroughly to melt the cream cheese fully giving a luscious sauce coating all ingredients.
- Prepare For Baking:
- Transfer the chicken and veggie mixture to a casserole dish spreading it evenly. Generously sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the top creating the cheesy crust that will brown beautifully in the oven.
- Bake To Perfection:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven at 350 degrees F. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden. This finishes bringing the flavors together and adds a delightful texture contrast.
I love how the cheddar melts and crisps on top adding a savory finish while the creamy cream cheese smooths out the spices. This dish always brings me back to casual dinners with friends where sharing hearty food felt like the best part of the night.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through to keep the creamy texture intact. Avoid overheating to prevent the cheese from becoming rubbery.
Ingredient Swaps
Try swapping chicken thighs for turkey or firm tofu to change up the protein and keep it lean or vegetarian. Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a lighter tang and add a little lime juice for brightness. Different cheese like Monterey Jack or pepper jack brings a different melt and mild heat.
Serving Ideas
Serve with warm flour or corn tortillas for a deconstructed fajita experience or alongside a crisp green salad to brighten the meal. Guacamole and salsa add fresh cool accents that contrast the warm creamy casserole nicely.
Enjoy this casserole as a comforting and flavorful weeknight meal with minimal fuss.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What cut of chicken works best?
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts both work well; thighs offer more juiciness while breasts are leaner.
- → Can I use other peppers besides bell peppers?
Yes, you can mix in poblano or Anaheim peppers for added heat and depth of flavor.
- → How can I make it spicier?
Add cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix or serve with spicy salsa to elevate the heat level.
- → What can I use instead of sour cream?
Greek yogurt is a great substitute, offering a similar tang with added protein.
- → Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate before baking. Bake just before serving for best texture.
- → What side dishes complement this casserole?
Serving with simple greens, rice, or warm tortillas balances the flavors and texture nicely.