🌮 Southwest Chicken Fajita Casserole

 

🌮 Southwest Chicken Fajita Casserole Recipe

🛒 Ingredients

• 🍗 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)

• 🫘 1 cup black beans (drained & rinsed)

• 🌽 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)

• 🍅 1 cup salsa (mild, medium, or spicy)

• 🌶️ 1 bell pepper (sliced)

• 🧅 1 small onion (sliced)

• 🧀 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)

• 🌿 1 tsp chili powder

• 🌿 1 tsp cumin

• 🌿 ½ tsp garlic powder

• 🌿 ½ tsp smoked paprika

• 🍚 1 cup cooked rice (optional, for extra bulk)

• 🌿 Fresh cilantro & lime wedges (for garnish)

🍳 Instructions

1. 🔥 Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. 🥘 Sauté peppers & onions until softened.

3. 🥗 Mix chicken, beans, corn, salsa, spices, and rice in a large bowl.

4. 🥘 Layer mixture into a greased casserole dish.

5. 🧀 Top with cheese and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.

6. 🌿 Garnish with cilantro and lime before serving.

💡 Extra Tips

• Add jalapeños 🌶️ for extra heat.

• Swap rice for quinoa for a protein boost.

• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter topping.

• Make it vegetarian by skipping chicken and doubling beans.

🌱 Health Benefits & Vitamins

• Chicken → High in protein for muscle repair.

• Black beans → Rich in fiber, iron, and folate.

• Corn → Provides antioxidants like lutein for eye health.

• Bell peppers → Packed with Vitamin C for immunity.

• Onions & garlic → Natural anti-inflammatory properties.

• Cheese → Source of calcium for strong bones.

❓ FAQ

• Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, prep and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

• Is this recipe gluten-free? ✅ Yes, if you use gluten-free salsa and rice.

• Can I freeze it? Absolutely! Freeze portions for up to 3 months.

• What cheese works best? Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend.

• How to make it spicier? Add jalapeños or use hot salsa.