Next, I spread half of the chicken mixture into the bottom of my casserole dish. Then, I lay three tortillas over the top. You can tear them into pieces to fit if needed! After that, I add the remaining chicken mixture over the tortillas, making sure everything is evenly distributed. Finally, I top it all off with the remaining tortillas and sprinkle that glorious shredded cheese on top.
Now it’s time to pop the casserole into the oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes. I love how I can just set it and forget it for a bit; the anticipation builds as the aroma fills my kitchen! When the cheese is melted and bubbly, I know it’s ready to come out. I let it cool for a few minutes before slicing, and that melted cheese stretching as I cut into it is just the best sight.
Don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro if you have it on hand—it’s such a nice finishing touch. I usually serve it with a side of sour cream or guacamole for extra flavor. This Fajita Chicken Casserole truly checks all the boxes for a hearty, delicious meal.
Pro Tips for Best Results
To ensure my casserole turns out perfectly every time, I tested this recipe three ways: with homemade shredded chicken, store-bought rotisserie chicken, and even with grilled chicken. The rotisserie chicken offered a great flavor with less prep time, making it my go-to when I’m short on time.
I also recommend sautéing the onions and bell peppers slightly before adding them to the casserole. This enhances their sweetness and softens them, resulting in a more delicious texture. I usually put a bit of olive oil in my skillet, toss in the veggies, and let them cook on medium heat for just a few minutes. The smell? Heavenly!
Lastly, if you want to kick it up a notch, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix. I have a friend who loves a bit of heat, and she swears by hot sauce drizzled on top before baking. Play around and find what suits your taste best!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
I’ve had my fair share of cooking mishaps, so let me share some things to watch out for. First, don’t skip the step of draining your canned beans and corn. Trust me; the extra moisture can make the casserole too soggy. This is one area where I learned the hard way, and I do my best not to repeat that mistake! (See the next page below to continue…)