Save
Bold fajita flavors tender chicken and tangy cheese come together in this casserole that is perfect for busy weeknights or any time you need a comforting crowd-pleaser The balance of Tex Mex spices creamy richness and simple prep made this a staple at my house when everyone is craving cheesy chicken and rice but I do not want to stand at the stove forever
I started making this after exhausting the usual taco night lineup and it quickly became a favorite on weekends when the whole family gathers around the table for seconds
Ingredients
- Shredded cooked chicken breast: the lean protein backbone go for rotisserie or leftover roast chicken for best flavor and ease
- Instant white rice: soaks up all the flavorful liquid and bakes up tender avoid regular rice which may stay hard
- Cream of chicken soup: makes everything creamy and binds the casserole low sodium versions work well too
- Sour cream: adds tang and richness full fat tastes best
- Frozen diced onion and bell pepper blend: saves chopping time and brings classic fajita flavor look for bright colors and firm pieces
- Diced tomatoes with chilies: for juicy texture and a mild spicy kick undrained for extra moisture
- Chicken broth: helps cook the rice and deepens the flavors choose a brand that is not overly salty
- Fajita seasoning: adds the signature Tex Mex boldness check blend for freshness and fragrant aroma
- Mexican style shredded cheese blend: creates the gooey topping and holds the casserole together pre shredded saves time and melts easily
Step by Step Instructions
- Prep The Pan:
- Lightly grease a large ovenproof dish with nonstick spray so nothing sticks during baking
- Mix The Casserole Base:
- In a big bowl toss together chicken instant rice soup sour cream frozen veggies undrained tomatoes chicken broth fajita seasoning and half of the cheese Use a sturdy spatula to make sure everything is evenly coated and there are no dry pockets
- Layer And Smooth:
- Scrape the mixture into your prepared dish Spread it right to the edges and smooth the surface for even baking
- First Bake Covered:
- Tightly cover your dish with foil and slide it into a hot oven Bake at 175 degrees Celsius for 35 minutes This lets the rice steam and all the flavors meld
- Cheese Topping And Final Bake:
- Take off the foil sprinkle the rest of the cheese over the top and return to the oven Bake uncovered for 10 minutes more The cheese should be bubbling and golden in spots
- Rest Before Serving:
- Take the casserole out and let it sit for five minutes before slicing This helps the rice settle and makes portioning neat and tidy
Save
My favorite part is that golden cheesy crust on top which my kids always race to claim for themselves The fajita seasoning means every bite tastes vibrant and just a little bit smoky The first time we shared it at a potluck people were lining up for seconds
Storage Tips
Store leftovers tightly wrapped in foil or in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days If you plan to freeze portion the casserole and wrap it well so the rice stays moist When reheating cover loosely with foil and bake until hot or zap individual pieces in the microwave on medium power to prevent the cheese from drying out
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap shredded turkey for the chicken or use cooked quinoa for a different texture If you like things spicier use medium or hot diced tomatoes with chilies For a dairy free version try plain coconut yogurt in place of sour cream and a vegan cheese blend Checking the fajita seasoning label is helpful if you avoid gluten or want to avoid extra salt
Save
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a simple green salad with lime vinaigrette or top with sliced avocado and fresh cilantro for extra color For big gatherings I sometimes offer bowls of crumbled tortilla chips or a side of black beans Corn on the cob or fresh tomato salsa on the side turns it into a hearty Tex Mex feast
Cultural Background
This casserole draws inspiration from sizzling fajitas a Tex Mex classic that combines vibrant vegetables and seasoned chicken with bright spices By layering these staples and baking with a cheesy topping the dish combines the convenience of American casseroles with the bold flavors of the Southwest It is a real meeting point between old school comfort food and festive Mexican inspired meals
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly and adds extra flavor to the casserole.
- → Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking as directed.
- → Are there alternatives to instant rice?
Quick-cooking rice varieties or pre-cooked rice can be used, but cooking times may need minor adjustment.
- → How do I make it spicier?
Add extra diced green chilies or a splash of hot sauce to the mixture before baking for more heat.
- → What toppings work well with this bake?
Try fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, avocado, or a dollop of sour cream just before serving for added flavor.
- → Can I freeze the casserole after baking?
Yes, cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through.