Chicken Fajita Noodle Casserole Recipe
“`html
If you’re craving a meal that combines vibrant flavors with comforting textures, this Chicken Fajita Noodle Casserole Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine tender fajita-seasoned chicken mingling with sautéed bell peppers and onions, all nestled with creamy sour cream and cheesy goodness, then baked together with perfectly cooked egg noodles. It’s an effortless, soul-satisfying casserole that brings the zest of fajitas and the heartiness of a noodle bake into one irresistible dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step toward bringing this colorful dish to life. Each component plays a key role: from the aromatic fajita seasoning that kick-starts the flavor, to the creamy soup and sour cream that give this casserole its luscious texture and rich taste.
- Boneless chicken breast or tenders (1¼ pounds): Choose tender pieces for quick cooking and easy shredding, ideal for mixing evenly in the casserole.
- Fajita seasoning (1 package, 1 oz): This blend infuses the chicken with that signature zesty and smoky flavor which defines the dish.
- Bell peppers (2, chopped – red, yellow, green): A colorful trio that adds crispness, sweetness, and a burst of vibrant color to the casserole.
- Onion (½ large, chopped): Brings a natural sweetness and depth to the sautéed vegetable mix.
- Olive oil (2 Tbsp): Used for sautéing vegetables and chicken, helping to develop rich flavors.
- Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup (2 cans, 10.5 oz each): This creamy base gives the casserole a velvety texture and cozy richness.
- Sour cream (1 container, 16 oz): Adds tangy creaminess that balances the spice and deepens the sauce.
- Egg noodles (1 package, 12 oz): The flexible but sturdy pasta that soaks up all those delicious flavors beautifully.
- Shredded Mexican cheese blend (2 cups, divided): Melts into gooey, golden perfection to finish off the casserole with cheesy bliss.
How to Make Chicken Fajita Noodle Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 350ºF and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray. This will ensure your casserole stays moist and doesn’t stick, setting a great foundation for the layers to come.
Step 2: Cook the Egg Noodles
Boil the egg noodles according to the package directions until al dente. Drain them well, then set them aside to cool slightly. These noodles will be the comforting backbone of your casserole, soaking up all the creamy, cheesy, and spicy flavors.
Step 3: Season and Prep the Chicken
Cut the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and even flavor distribution. Toss these pieces in the fajita seasoning until each is well coated — this step is what transforms simple chicken into the star player of this Chicken Fajita Noodle Casserole Recipe.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables and Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Begin by adding the chopped bell peppers and onions, sautéing them for 3 to 5 minutes until they soften and their natural sweetness emerges. Then add in the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for another 5 minutes, until the chicken is just cooked through with a nice sear on the outside.
Step 5: Combine the Creamy Mixture
In a large bowl, stir together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and 1½ cups of the shredded Mexican cheese blend. Mix in the cooked chicken and vegetables, and then fold in the drained noodles. This creamy, cheesy blend ensures every forkful of this casserole is rich and satisfying.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pour the noodle and chicken mixture into your prepared pan. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese evenly on top to create a melty, golden crust. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and irresistible. Let it cool just a bit to allow the flavors to settle before serving.
How to Serve Chicken Fajita Noodle Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Add a pop of freshness on top by sprinkling chopped cilantro or green onions. Dollops of fresh sour cream or slices of ripe avocado also bring a creamy contrast to the warm, spiced casserole. If you enjoy a little heat, a sprinkle of jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce can elevate the dish beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing sides like a simple garden salad or a zesty Mexican street corn salad. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside black beans or refried beans to keep the fajita theme going strong.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in mini ramekins topped with a slice of lime on the side. Alternatively, layer your casserole in a clear glass dish so guests can admire the inviting layers of cheese, veggies, and noodles before digging in—food truly is a feast for the eyes too!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Chicken Fajita Noodle Casserole Recipe keeps well for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for delicious next-day meals or easy lunches.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or cover the entire pan tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave, covered, for about 2-3 minutes or until warmed through. For larger portions, reheat in a 350ºF oven covered with foil for 20-25 minutes, uncovering near the end to re-crisp the cheesy topping.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional, you can swap in rotini, penne, or even shells. Just make sure to adjust cooking times for the pasta accordingly and drain well before mixing.
Is this dish spicy?
The heat level depends on the fajita seasoning you use. Most store-bought blends are mildly spiced, but you can add extra chili powder or jalapeños if you prefer it hotter.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Sure! Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and extra bell peppers. Use a vegetable cream soup instead of chicken soup to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
What type of cheese works best in this casserole?
A Mexican cheese blend is ideal for its melty texture and blend of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and queso quesadilla, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella or even a sharp cheddar for a unique twist.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance for a party?
You can assemble the casserole a few hours ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. Just add the cheese topping just before baking so it stays perfectly gooey and golden when served.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Chicken Fajita Noodle Casserole Recipe that brings the best of comforting casseroles and bold fajita flavors together. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that feels like a warm hug at the dinner table. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it a regular in your meal rotation – perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers!
“`
Print
Chicken Fajita Noodle Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Chicken Fajita Noodle Casserole combines tender chicken seasoned with fajita spices, sautéed bell peppers and onions, creamy soup and sour cream, tender egg noodles, and melted Mexican cheese blend for a hearty, flavorful, and comforting baked dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 1¼ pounds boneless chicken breast or tenders
- 1 (1-oz) package fajita seasoning
- 2 bell peppers, chopped (red, yellow, green)
- ½ large onion, chopped
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
Soup Mixture
- 2 (10.5-oz) cans unsalted cream of chicken soup
- 1 (16-oz) container sour cream
Pasta and Cheese
- 1 (12-oz) package egg noodles
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend, divided
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook Noodles: Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
- Prepare Chicken: Cut the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces. Toss the chicken pieces with the fajita seasoning to evenly coat them and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables and Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped bell peppers and onions, cooking them for 3 to 5 minutes until they start to soften. Then add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Combine Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and 1½ cups of the shredded Mexican cheese blend. Stir in the cooked chicken and vegetable mixture, then fold in the cooked egg noodles until everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble and Bake: Transfer the mixture into the prepared 9×13-inch pan. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded Mexican cheese evenly on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs for a juicier casserole.
- Feel free to use different cheese blends like cheddar or Monterey Jack if preferred.
- Adjust fajita seasoning to taste, adding extra for more spice.
- For a lower-fat option, use reduced-fat sour cream and cheese.
- Allow casserole to rest 5 minutes after baking for easier serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
