Description
Baked Chicken Fajita & Rice Casserole is a one-pan meal that combines tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and savory rice, all baked to perfection with a zesty fajita flair. This easy-to-make casserole is packed with flavor and makes for the perfect weeknight dinner that the whole family will love. Simple, satisfying, and full of flavor, this dish is the ultimate comfort food!
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
2 chicken breasts, cut into strips
1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
1 ½ cups chicken broth
1 cup canned diced tomatoes (with juice)
1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or orange), sliced
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Prepare the Chicken:
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In a large skillet, cook the chicken strips over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
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Prepare the Casserole:
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In a large casserole dish, combine the uncooked rice, chicken broth, canned diced tomatoes (with juice), and sliced bell pepper. Stir everything together to mix evenly.
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Add the Chicken:
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Layer the cooked chicken strips over the rice mixture in the casserole dish.
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Bake the Casserole:
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Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid has been absorbed. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to slightly crisp up the top.
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Serve and Enjoy:
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Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or your favorite salsa and sour cream for extra flavor.
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Notes
Tip: If you’re using brown rice, increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes and add a bit more chicken broth as brown rice requires more liquid and takes longer to cook.
Storage: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat by microwaving individual portions or baking at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
Substitutions: You can use ground beef, turkey, or shrimp in place of chicken for a different twist. Feel free to add other vegetables like onions or zucchini for added flavor and nutrients.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Casserole, Weeknight Dinner
- Method: Baking, Sautéing
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex, American
