Introduction
Gather your family around the table for a meal that’s as colorful as it is delicious! This Chicken Fajita Rice Casserole takes all the vibrant flavors of fajitas and wraps them into a hearty, cheesy dish that everyone will love. With tender pieces of chicken, sweet bell peppers, and zesty spices, this casserole brings warmth and comfort to any dinner. Plus, it’s a complete meal in one dish—perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (mix of red, green, yellow)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it nice and warm for baking.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add in the cubed chicken, seasoning it generously with salt, pepper, chili powder, and cumin. Cook the chicken until it’s beautifully browned and no longer pink inside.
- Add the vibrant sliced bell peppers and the chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté these colorful veggies until they’re softened and just starting to caramelize, about 5 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, rinsed black beans, diced tomatoes with green chiles, and corn. Gently stir until all the ingredients are evenly mixed and ready to shine.
- Now, fold the sautéed chicken and vegetable mixture into the rice mixture, ensuring everything is well combined and bursting with flavor.
- Transfer this delicious mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly for the perfect bake.
- Crown your casserole with a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt into a gooey, savory dream.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is wonderfully bubbly and golden.
- Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes to allow the flavors to settle. Feel free to garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and freshness before serving!
Notes or Tips
- For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or using spicy diced tomatoes.
- This casserole is incredibly versatile; feel free to substitute with your favorite veggies or protein.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat beautifully in the microwave or oven.
Cooking Techniques
Combining sautéing and baking, this recipe beautifully illustrates the two methods to create a fulfilling dish. Sautéing the chicken and vegetables allows them to develop rich flavors, while baking melds the ingredients together, giving you that delightful cheesy topping that’s sure to please.
FAQ
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the entire mix in advance and refrigerate it before baking. When ready to serve, just pop it in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for thorough heating.
Can I use brown rice instead of white? Yes, brown rice can be used, but make sure it’s fully cooked before mixing it with the other ingredients, as it takes longer to cook than white rice.
Conclusion
This Chicken Fajita Rice Casserole is perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Bursting with flavors and packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. So gather your loved ones, dive into this delightful dish, and create wonderful memories around the dinner table!