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A close-up shot showcases a delicious Chicken Fajita Rice Casserole, baked to golden perfection and ready to be served.

Easy Chicken Fajita Rice Casserole

This Easy Chicken Fajita Rice Casserole combines the vibrant flavors of fajitas with the comfort of a classic casserole. It features seasoned chicken, colorful vegetables, and a cheesy rice base, all baked to bubbly perfection for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 2 bell peppers any color
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 packet fajita seasoning or homemade
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 1.5 cups uncooked long-grain rice
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup frozen corn
  • 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tbsp cumin
  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp oregano
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper optional
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Large bowl
  • large skillet
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, toss chicken strips with olive oil, fajita seasoning, and lime juice.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add onion and bell peppers. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes and green chilies, black beans, corn, cooked chicken, and cooked vegetables. Stir well.
  6. Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  7. Top with Monterey Jack cheese and cheddar cheese.
  8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
  9. Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving.
  10. Top with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and cilantro.

Notes

For best results, bloom the fajita spices in the olive oil before adding the chicken. This intensifies the flavor. Pre-cooking the rice ensures a perfect texture. Using Rotel adds a great blend of heat and acidity. Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the homemade fajita seasoning to your preferred spice level. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.