Chicken Fajita Noodle Casserole – Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with our irresistible Chicken Fajita Noodle Casserole! This delightful dish combines tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and zesty fajita seasoning, all mixed together with creamy goodness. The velvety cream of chicken soup and tangy sour cream create a luscious sauce that coats every nook and cranny of the al dente egg noodles. Topped with a generous layer of melted Mexican cheese blend, this casserole is baked to perfection, resulting in a bubbly, cheesy, and utterly comforting meal. Let’s dive into the story behind this recipe and discover why it has become a beloved staple in our little family.
Picture this: a cozy evening at home, the tantalizing aroma of sizzling chicken and peppers wafting through the kitchen, and the sounds of laughter and joy echoing in the background. This Chicken Fajita Noodle Casserole has been a game-changer for our family gatherings. It all started when my husband, John, discovered his love for fajitas during our trip to Mexico. He couldn’t get enough of those sizzling hot plates served with warm tortillas and flavorful fillings. Inspired by his newfound passion, I decided to create a twist on the classic fajita by transforming it into a hearty casserole. Little did I know, it would become an instant hit!
The first time I made this casserole, the fragrant spices mingling with the creamy sauce created a symphony of flavors that had everyone’s taste buds dancing with delight. As we sat down for dinner, the excitement was palpable. Each forkful brought together the tender chicken, the vibrant bell peppers, and the creamy noodles, all blanketed in a blanket of gooey, melted cheese. The combination was simply irresistible. The dish vanished in no time, leaving everyone longing for more. Since that day, this Chicken Fajita Noodle Casserole has become a symbol of love, togetherness, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with our loved ones.
Why This Chicken Fajita Noodle Casserole is a Must-Try?
- Flavor Explosion: The fajita seasoning infuses the chicken and vegetables with a mouthwatering blend of spices, delivering a burst of flavor in every bite.
- Creamy and Dreamy: The combination of cream of chicken soup and sour cream creates a luscious and velvety sauce that envelops the noodles, turning this casserole into a creamy sensation.
- Cheesy Goodness: With a generous topping of Mexican cheese blend, this casserole achieves a perfect golden-brown crust and ooey-gooey cheese pull that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
- 1¼ pounds boneless chicken breast or tenders (565 grams)
- 1 (1-oz) package fajita seasoning
- 2 bell peppers, chopped (red, yellow, green)
- ½ large onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 (10.75-oz) cans cream of chicken soup
- 1 (16-oz) container sour cream
- 1 (12-oz) package egg noodles
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend, divided (226 grams)
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch pan with cooking spray.
Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cut the chicken into small bite-sized pieces. Toss the chicken with the fajita seasoning and set it aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped peppers and onions. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes until they start to soften. Then, add the fajita-coated chicken and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and 1-½ cups (170 grams) of the shredded cheese. Stir in the cooked chicken and vegetables.
Add the cooked noodles to the mixture and gently stir until everything is well combined. Pour the mixture into the prepared 9×13-inch pan and sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
Notes:
- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite fajita toppings such as diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, or a dollop of guacamole on top.
- You can substitute the chicken breast with chicken thighs or even use a combination of both for added flavor and juiciness.
- For a healthier twist, opt for low-fat or Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
In conclusion, our Chicken Fajita Noodle Casserole is a true crowd-pleaser that combines the bold flavors of fajitas with the comfort of a creamy casserole. This recipe has the power to bring people together, creating unforgettable moments and filling hearts and bellies with warmth and happiness. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner for your family or hosting a gathering with friends, this dish is guaranteed to impress and satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
The beauty of this casserole lies in its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite toppings or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste. Plus, with simple ingredients that are readily available, it’s a convenient choice for busy days when you crave a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
So go ahead and give our Chicken Fajita Noodle Casserole a try. Let it transport you to a fiesta of flavors, where the aroma of sizzling chicken, the vibrant colors of the bell peppers, and the irresistible cheesiness come together to create a symphony of deliciousness. Embrace the joy of cooking, the love of sharing, and the delight of savoring a dish that has become a beloved tradition in our household. Bon appétit!
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Definitely! While the recipe calls for egg noodles, you can use any pasta of your choice, such as penne, fusilli, or rotini. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the instructions on the pasta package.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! This casserole can be prepared ahead of time. Simply follow the instructions until step 6, then cover the pan tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature while preheating the oven. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Can I freeze the Chicken Fajita Noodle Casserole?
Yes, you can! This casserole is freezer-friendly. After assembling the dish, cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake according to the instructions.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This Chicken Fajita Noodle Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a fresh green salad or some warm crusty bread to round out the feast. Don’t forget to garnish it with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice for an extra burst of freshness!
![](https://8fivefive.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Chicken-Fajita-Noodle-Casserole-360x361.jpg)
Chicken Fajita Noodle Casserole
Ingredients
- 1¼ pounds boneless chicken breast or tenders 565 grams
- 1 1-oz package fajita seasoning
- 2 bell peppers chopped (red, yellow, green)
- ½ large onion chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 10.75-oz cans cream of chicken soup
- 1 16-oz container sour cream
- 1 12-oz package egg noodles
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend divided (226 grams)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Lightly spray a 9x13-inch pan with cooking spray.
- Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cut the chicken into small bite-sized pieces. Toss the chicken with the fajita seasoning and set it aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped peppers and onions. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes until they start to soften. Then, add the fajita-coated chicken and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and 1-½ cups (170 grams) of the shredded cheese. Stir in the cooked chicken and vegetables.
- Add the cooked noodles to the mixture and gently stir until everything is well combined. Pour the mixture into the prepared 9x13-inch pan and sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
Leave a Reply