Let’s get to cooking! So, here are a few notes about this recipe. Because of the short cooking time (in both methods) I’ve opted for frozen bell peppers and onions. They cook through faster and offer a softer texture than fresh. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can chop your own onions and peppers and saute them in a super hot skillet before mixing the casserole together for even more flavor.
Let’s also chat about our seasoning here. There are tons of fajita seasoning packets out there. Feel free to use your favorite. I’ve tasted a bunch of them and this McCormick version is my absolute favorite. It has a smoky flavor that really adds to the dish. Now, don’t go hunting all over town for it – nothing is worth that – but if you can find it, get it. This recipe also calls for a can of diced tomatoes with chilies. I used the mild version here, but if you like heat – go for your favorite heat level.
Ingredients
4 cups shredded cooked chicken (about 3 large breasts)
2 cups instant rice
1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1 cup frozen diced onion and bell pepper blend
1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with chilies (like Ro*Tel), undrained
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 (1.12-ounce) packet fajita seasoning
1 (8-ounce) shredded Mexican blend cheese (about 2 cups)
Instructions
Lightly spray a 9×13″ casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, frozen onion and bell pepper, tomatoes with chilies, chicken broth, fajita seasoning, and about half of the cheese. Mix until well combined. Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and spread it evenly. Cover with tin foil and bake in the oven for 35 minutes at 350 degrees. Uncover, sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top and bake another 10 minutes