Are you ready to spice up your dinner routine with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and comfort? Introducing the Fort Fajita Chicken Casserole—a mouthwatering Mexican-inspired recipe that will have your family begging for seconds! With tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and a cheesy, bubbly topping, this casserole is the perfect blend of hearty and zesty. In just 45 minutes, you can whip up a delicious meal that serves six, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy gathering. Read on to discover how to create this culinary masterpiece that’s sure to impress!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 packet fajita seasoning
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 6 flour tortillas, cut into strips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced chicken breast and cook for 5-6 minutes until golden brown and nearly cooked through, stirring occasionally.
- Add sliced bell peppers and onions to the skillet with the chicken. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until vegetables are slightly softened and beginning to caramelize.
- Sprinkle the entire packet of fajita seasoning over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Stir thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly with the spices.
- Pour the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies into the skillet and stir to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes to blend flavors.
- Layer the cut flour tortilla strips across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a base for the casserole.
- Spread the chicken and vegetable mixture evenly over the tortilla strips in the baking dish.
- Generously sprinkle shredded cheese over the entire surface of the casserole, ensuring even coverage.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and slightly golden and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle and make cutting easier.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or sliced jalapeños for additional flavor and presentation.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can slice the chicken and vegetables the night before. Store them in the fridge to make assembly a breeze!
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or corn for added texture and flavor. The more colorful, the better!
- Cheese Choices: While shredded cheese is a must, try mixing different varieties like pepper jack for a spicy kick or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after baking helps the layers set, making it easier to serve.
- Garnish for Flavor: Enhance your dish with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or sliced jalapeños for an extra burst of flavor.
- Make It Your Own: Experiment with different seasonings or add cooked black beans for extra protein and fiber!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 335kcal
Carbohydrates: 19g
Protein: 33g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 82mg
