Chicken Fajita Casserole: A Mouthwatering Fusion of Flavor and Comfort

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Prepare to revolutionize your dinner routine with this incredible Chicken Fajita Casserole – a dish that combines the vibrant flavors of traditional fajitas with the comforting warmth of a baked casserole. Perfect for busy families, weekend gatherings, or when you’re craving a Mexican-inspired feast that requires minimal prep but delivers maximum taste. This recipe transforms classic fajita ingredients into a crowd-pleasing meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients

Homemade Fajita Spice Mix

  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Main Dish

  • 500g (1.1 lbs) chicken breast fillets
  • 1 yellow onion, sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper (optional)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
  • 1 small can (150g) corn, drained
  • 100g (1/2 cup) kidney beans (optional)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

To Finish

  • 150g (1.5 cups) grated cheese
  • 4-6 wheat or corn tortillas
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional)
  • Sour cream, guacamole, or salsa (optional)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables

  1. Cut chicken breast into thin strips or cubes.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Sauté onions for 2 minutes.
  4. Add bell peppers and garlic, cook for 3-5 minutes.
  5. Add chicken, season with salt and fajita spice mix.
  6. Sauté for 7-8 minutes until chicken is golden brown.

2. Create the Fajita Mixture

  1. Pour chopped tomatoes into the pan.
  2. Add corn and kidney beans.
  3. Simmer on low heat for 10 minutes to blend flavors.

3. Casserole Assembly Options

Option 1: Layered Tortilla Method

  1. Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).
  2. Oil a casserole dish.
  3. Layer torn tortillas on the bottom.
  4. Add chicken-vegetable mixture and cheese.
  5. Repeat layers, finishing with cheese on top.

Option 2: Direct Bake Method

  1. Pour chicken-vegetable mixture into casserole dish.
  2. Top generously with grated cheese.

4. Baking

  1. Bake for 20-25 minutes.
  2. Cheese should be melted and lightly browned.
  3. Rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutritional Information and Serving Details

  • Servings: 4-6
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes

Why This Chicken Fajita Casserole is a Nutritional Champion

This dish is a powerhouse of nutrition, offering a perfect balance of lean protein from chicken, fiber-rich vegetables, and complex carbohydrates. The colorful bell peppers provide essential vitamins A and C, while the beans add extra protein and fiber. The homemade spice mix not only enhances flavor but also offers potential metabolic benefits from spices like cumin and paprika.

Serving Suggestions

  • Garnish with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa
  • Sprinkle fresh cilantro or parsley
  • Serve alongside Mexican rice or a light green salad

Buen provecho!