Chicken Fajita Casserole: A Tex-Mex One-Pan Wonder

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If you love sizzling fajitas but crave something easier and more comforting, this Chicken Fajita Casserole is about to become your new favorite dinner. It delivers all the bold Tex-Mex flavors you adore — seasoned chicken, colorful bell peppers, onions, and melty cheese — in one simple baking dish.

This Tex-Mex casserole recipe transforms classic skillet fajitas into a cozy, oven-baked meal that requires minimal prep and cleanup. It’s hearty, vibrant, and perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Best of all? Everything comes together in one pan.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Fajita Casserole

This isn’t just another chicken bake. It’s a flavor-packed dish that combines convenience with bold taste.

  • One-pan meal
  • Family-friendly
  • Packed with protein and vegetables
  • Customizable heat level
  • Great for meal prep
  • Ready in under an hour

It’s the perfect easy chicken casserole dinner that brings Tex-Mex comfort to your table without extra fuss.

What Makes It So Flavorful?

Traditional fajitas are known for their smoky seasoning and vibrant vegetables. This casserole keeps those signature elements:

  • Chili powder for warmth
  • Cumin for earthy depth
  • Paprika for subtle smokiness
  • Garlic and onion for savory balance

As it bakes, the flavors meld together while the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden topping.

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
  • 3 bell peppers (red, green, yellow), sliced
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • ½ cup sour cream (optional topping)
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
  • Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, combine sliced chicken, bell peppers, and onion.
  3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
  4. Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
  5. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until chicken is fully cooked.
  6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack evenly over the top.
  7. Return to oven and bake an additional 5–10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  9. Garnish with cilantro and serve with sour cream and lime wedges.

Chicken Fajita Casserole

A bold and flavorful Tex-Mex chicken fajita casserole made in one pan with peppers, onions, and melted cheese.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Calories: 410

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs chicken breasts sliced
  • 3 bell peppers sliced
  • 1 onion sliced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese shredded

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • 9×13 baking dish
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven and prepare baking dish.
  2. Season chicken and vegetables thoroughly.
  3. Bake until chicken is cooked through.
  4. Top with cheese and bake until melted.

Notes

Serve with tortillas, rice, or salad for a complete meal.

Optional Add-Ins

This one pan Mexican casserole is highly customizable.

Add Rice

Mix in 1 cup cooked rice before baking for a heartier dish.

Make It Low-Carb

Skip rice and serve over cauliflower rice.

Add Beans

Black beans or pinto beans add extra protein and fiber.

Spice It Up

Add sliced jalapeños or cayenne pepper for more heat.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs beautifully with:

  • Warm flour or corn tortillas
  • Mexican rice
  • Refried beans
  • Fresh avocado slices
  • Simple side salad

You can even scoop it into tortillas to create instant fajita wraps.

Meal Prep & Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat:

  • Microwave in short intervals.
  • Warm in a skillet for slightly crisp edges.

It also freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Tips for the Best Results

Slice Evenly

Cut chicken and peppers into uniform strips for even cooking.

Don’t Overbake

Chicken breasts can dry out if overcooked. Bake just until done.

Use Freshly Shredded Cheese

Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded.

Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Busy Nights

Life gets hectic. Between work, school, and errands, complicated dinners aren’t always realistic.

This chicken fajita casserole simplifies everything:

  • Minimal prep
  • One baking dish
  • Balanced meal in one pan
  • Easy cleanup

It’s a satisfying dinner that doesn’t require standing over a stove.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless skinless thighs work wonderfully and stay extra juicy.

Can I make it ahead?

Assemble the casserole and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Is it spicy?

It has mild warmth, but you can adjust the spice level easily.

Nutritional Benefits

This dish is rich in protein from chicken and loaded with vitamin-packed bell peppers. It’s filling, colorful, and balanced — making it a wholesome option for weeknight meals.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Fajita Casserole combines everything you love about Tex-Mex flavors in a simple, oven-baked format. It’s bold, comforting, and endlessly adaptable.

Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this baked fajita chicken dish delivers satisfying flavor with minimal effort.

One pan. Big flavor. Total comfort.

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