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Chicken Fajita Casserole with Cheese

Elina James
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Mexican-Inspired
Servings 8 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Chicken u0026 Vegetables:
  • 1½ lbs (700 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced thinly
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced thinly
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced thinly
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp cumin
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • For the Cheese Mixture:
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 tsp lime juice (optional)
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • For Topping:
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • Sliced jalapeños (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Preheat Oven : Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish lightly with cooking spray or butter.
  • Step 2: Cook Chicken : Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken, season with chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes until chicken is lightly browned but not fully cooked (it will finish in the oven). Remove from heat and set aside.
  • Step 3: Sauté Vegetables : In the same skillet, heat remaining olive oil. Add sliced bell peppers and onion. Cook for 5–6 minutes until slightly softened but still vibrant.
  • Step 4: Prepare Cheese Mixture : In a medium bowl, combine sour cream, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, lime juice, and smoked paprika. Mix until smooth.
  • Step 5: Assemble Casserole : Combine chicken, sautéed vegetables, and cheese mixture in a large bowl. Transfer mixture to prepared casserole dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheese on top.
  • Step 6: Bake : Bake in preheated oven for 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
  • Step 7: Serve : Garnish with chopped cilantro and sliced jalapeños, if desired. Serve with warm tortillas, rice, or enjoy as is.