# Chicken Fajita Casserole: A Warm All-in-One Meal
This Chicken Fajita Casserole is a warm, all-in-one meal that bakes up with juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and an abundance of vibrant Tex-Mex flavor. It’s filling, cheesy, and the type of hassle-free dish that makes hectic evenings much simpler, especially if you’re already a fan of easy chicken fajitas.
## Holly’s Recipe Highlights: Chicken Fajita Casserole
**Flavor**: Boldly flavored Tex-Mex essence with tangy salsa, creamy melted cheese, and a touch of sweetness from the peppers and onions.
**Why Make It**: I enjoy preparing this because everything cooks in a single dish, preparation is incredibly simple, and cleanup is just as manageable.
**Serving Suggestions**: Pair with a dollop of sour cream, homemade guacamole, fresh cilantro, easy pico de gallo, or a sprinkle of green onions for added flavor and freshness.
**Total Time**: 70 Mins
**Servings**: 6
**Cooking Method**: Baked
## Ingredient Notes
– **Rice**: Long-grain white rice is perfect as it cooks up fluffy and soft. Brown rice or instant rice won’t yield the same results in this casserole.
– **Salsa**: Opt for a salsa you like to flavor the casserole. Choose medium or mild for a family-friendly option, or hot for extra spice. Chunky salsa enhances heartiness.
– **Chicken**: Chicken tenderloins cook evenly, but if you opt for chicken breasts, slice them into ¾-inch strips for uniform cooking.
– **Seasoning**: Utilize store-bought fajita seasoning for ease, or create your own to manage salt and heat levels.
– **Onions & Peppers**: Frozen bell peppers and onions ease preparation. Freshly sliced can also be utilized, but frozen mixes blend in effortlessly and impart flavor as they cook.
– **Cheese**: A Mexican cheese blend melts nicely, but cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack are excellent substitutes.
– **Variations**:
– Incorporate black beans or corn for a more substantial Tex-Mex experience.
– Homemade salsa verde brings a brighter, tangier taste, and jalapeño slices on top can amp up the heat.
## How to Prepare a Chicken Fajita Casserole
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, blend rice, chicken broth, salsa, salt, and pepper. Stir to mix.
3. Layer frozen peppers and onions over the rice mixture.
4. In a bowl, coat chicken with fajita seasoning until fully covered. Place chicken over the vegetables in a single layer.
5. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 1 hour or until rice is tender and chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
6. Remove cover, sprinkle cheese on top, and broil for 3 to 5 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
### Tips for Success
– **Cover the Dish**: Make sure it’s securely covered with foil to keep moisture in for the rice.
– **Cut Chicken Evenly**: Slice into uniform strips for consistent cooking.
– **Cooking to Perfection**: Verify the center for doneness as it cooks last.
– **Let it Rest**: Allow for resting time to let the rice absorb liquid and the casserole to set for easier serving.
## Save it For Later
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 4 months. Reheat portions in the microwave or warm in the oven until thoroughly heated. For optimum texture, add fresh toppings after reheating.
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