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### **Instructions: How to Make Fajita Chicken Casserole**
#### **1. Preheat the Oven**
Start by preheating your oven to **375°F (190°C)**. This will ensure that it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the casserole.
#### **2. Sauté the Vegetables**
In a large skillet, heat **olive oil** over medium heat. Add the **onion** and **bell peppers**. Sauté for about **5-7 minutes**, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized. Stir in the **fajita seasoning** and cook for another minute to allow the spices to become fragrant.
#### **3. Add the Chicken and Other Ingredients**
Add the shredded **chicken**, **diced tomatoes**, and **black beans** to the skillet. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. If you’re using rice, you can add that in now too. Let everything heat through for a couple of minutes.
#### **4. Layer the Casserole**
Transfer the chicken and veggie mixture into a greased **9×13-inch casserole dish**. Spread it out evenly, then sprinkle **shredded cheese** on top. If you like a bit of crunch, you can add **crushed tortilla chips** on top of the cheese for extra texture.
#### **5. Bake**
Place the casserole dish in the oven and bake for **20-25 minutes**, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
#### **6. Serve**
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve with a dollop of **sour cream** on top and garnish with **fresh cilantro** if desired. You can also serve this casserole with **extra tortilla chips** on the side for dipping.
### **Tips and Variations**
– **Add some heat**: If you like your fajitas spicy, feel free to add **jalapeños**, **red pepper flakes**, or a dash of **hot sauce** to the mix.
– **Use different proteins**: While chicken is the classic choice, you can easily swap it out for **ground beef**, **ground turkey**, or even **shredded pork**. For a vegetarian version, try adding **black beans**, **corn**, and **tofu** for a hearty, plant-based option.
– **Add some veggies**: You can add more vegetables like **zucchini**, **corn**, or **spinach** to boost the nutritional value and make it even more filling.
– **Cheese variations**: Try using different types of cheese, like **Monterey Jack**, **Pepper Jack**, or **Cotija** for a more authentic Mexican flair.
– **Make ahead**: This casserole can be prepared ahead of time. Simply assemble it, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, bake as directed!
### **Why This Fajita Chicken Casserole is a Winner**
This **Fajita Chicken Casserole** is the perfect blend of comfort and bold flavors. It combines all the ingredients of a classic fajita but in a warm, cheesy casserole form. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping for leftovers, this dish has all the ingredients to become your new weeknight favorite.
It’s **easy to make**, **full of flavor**, and offers so much versatility that you can adjust it to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Plus, with its hearty ingredients, it’s sure to satisfy even the hungriest of appetites.
### **Conclusion**
If you’re looking for a dinner that brings all the bold, savory flavors of fajitas without the extra effort, look no further than **Fajita Chicken Casserole**. This dish is the ultimate comfort food with a kick, and it’s guaranteed to become a staple in your home cooking repertoire.
So, next time you’re craving fajitas, skip the skillet and go for this easy-to-make casserole that’s loaded with flavor. Your family will thank you! 🌮🔥
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