Name: Chicken Fajita Casserole
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; ½ medium onion, diced; 1 teaspoon garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 cups low-sodium beef broth; 1 cup whole or 2% milk; 24 oz jarred pasta sauce (your favorite flavor); 10 oz medium pasta shells, uncooked (about 2 ½ cups); 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste

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This hearty Chicken Fajita Casserole takes all the flavors of classic fajitas—tender chicken, colorful peppers, and bold seasoning—and bakes them into a cheesy, comforting dish with fluffy rice. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s just as easy to make as it is to enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is a full meal in one pan, combining protein, veggies, and carbs in a flavorful, cheesy bake. It’s a fun twist on traditional fajitas, with the same zesty seasoning but less hands-on cooking time. The creamy sauce keeps the rice tender and the chicken moist, while the melted cheddar-jack cheese makes every bite irresistible. It also reheats beautifully, making it great for leftovers. Chicken Fajita Casserole

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 cups cooked long grain white rice (such as two bags of boil-in-bag jasmine rice)
10.5 oz can condensed cream of chicken soup
1 oz packet fajita seasoning
3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken, skin removed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large sweet yellow onion, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch strips
1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced into ¼-inch strips
1 large yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced into ¼-inch strips
1 large green bell pepper, seeded and sliced into ¼-inch strips
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
8 oz block cheddar-jack cheese, shredded
1 tablespoon fresh chopped cilantro, for garnish

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, and fajita seasoning. Stir until well mixed.
Fold in the shredded chicken and spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Add onion, red, yellow, and green bell peppers, salt, and black pepper. Sauté for 8–10 minutes, until onions are translucent and peppers are tender but not overly soft.
Spread the cooked vegetables evenly over the rice and chicken mixture.
Top with shredded cheddar-jack cheese.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the edges are lightly browned.
Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Calories: 576 kcal per serving

Variations

Swap the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom or cream of celery for a different flavor base.
Use brown rice or quinoa for a more wholesome twist.
Add black beans or corn for extra texture and flavor.
Make it spicy by adding jalapeños or using hot fajita seasoning.
Substitute cheddar-jack with pepper jack for a spicier, tangier cheese topping.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes, or microwave individual portions until heated through. To freeze, wrap tightly and store for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

Can I use uncooked rice in this recipe?

No, the rice needs to be cooked beforehand for the casserole to bake evenly.

Can I substitute the rotisserie chicken?

Yes, you can use any cooked shredded chicken, such as poached, grilled, or baked chicken breasts or thighs.

How do I make this casserole dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free cream soup alternative and dairy-free cheese shreds.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely—zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach work well in this recipe.

What can I serve with this casserole?

A side salad, tortilla chips with salsa, or roasted vegetables pair nicely.

Can I make this casserole spicier?

Yes, add chopped jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce to the mixture.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, but freshly shredded cheese melts better and has a smoother texture.

Can I replace the chicken with beef?

Yes, cooked ground beef or shredded beef would work as a hearty alternative.

How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

Cover loosely with foil during the first half of baking if your oven tends to run hot, and avoid overbaking.

Conclusion

Chicken Fajita Casserole combines the vibrant flavors of fajitas with the comfort of a cheesy baked rice dish. With its zesty seasoning, tender chicken, and colorful peppers, it’s a flavorful all-in-one dinner that’s easy to prepare and even easier to love. Whether for a busy weeknight or a casual get-together, this recipe is sure to be a repeat favorite.