1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little olive oil or non-stick cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Fajita Seasoning
In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients for the fajita seasoning. Mix well and set aside. This blend of spices will infuse your chicken and vegetables with that classic fajita flavor.
3. Cook the Chicken and Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and cook until they are no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Sprinkle half of the fajita seasoning over the chicken and stir to coat.
Add the sliced bell peppers, onions, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp. Add the drained diced tomatoes with green chilies and the remaining fajita seasoning. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Spread the cooked rice evenly in the bottom of the greased baking dish. Spoon the chicken and vegetable mixture over the rice, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses on top.
5. Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through. The edges should be slightly golden and crispy.
6. Garnish and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the top for a burst of freshness. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick.
Tips for Success
- Chicken Strips: Ensure your chicken strips are evenly sized for uniform cooking.
- Vegetable Prep: Slice the vegetables thinly so they cook quickly and evenly.
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the cayenne pepper in the fajita seasoning to control the spiciness to your preference.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this casserole with warm tortillas, guacamole, sour cream, and salsa for a complete Tex-Mex meal.
Conclusion
Our Chicken Fajita Casserole is a fiesta of flavors packed into one delicious dish. It brings together the best elements of fajitas – the seasoned chicken, sautéed peppers and onions, and melted cheese – in a convenient casserole form. This recipe is sure to become a staple in your household, offering a comforting and flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and impossible to resist. Gather your family and friends, and enjoy this delectable dish that’s perfect for any occasion. ¡Buen provecho!