If you have been searching for a cozy, flavor-packed dish that lights up your weeknight dinners, look no further than the Cheesy Chicken Fajita Casserole with Veggies and Tortilla Chips Recipe. This one-pan wonder brilliantly combines tender shredded chicken, vibrant sautéed veggies, a creamy tomato-lime sauce, crispy tortilla chips, and ooey-gooey melted cheese into a harmonious blend that satisfies every craving. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also offers a delightful balance of textures and colors that make it as pretty on the plate as it is delicious on the palate. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this casserole brings warmth and excitement to the table effortlessly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. In the center bottom is a whole sweet potato with a smooth orange skin. To the right of it is an empty silver tin can placed on its side. Above the sweet potato, there is a small white bowl filled with shredded orange cheese. To the right of that, there is another small white bowl with sliced green bell peppers. Next to the green peppers, slightly off to the right side, is a whole yellow onion with a papery outer skin. On the far right, a white bowl is full of triangular tortilla chips. At the top left, there is a small white bowl containing shredded cooked chicken. To the right of the chicken, a glass measuring cup holds a light cream-colored liquid. Near the top right corner, two cloves of garlic and a small white bowl filled with red chili powder complete the arrangement. All items are neatly organized over the smooth white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is key for delivering all the wonderful flavors and textures in the Cheesy Chicken Fajita Casserole with Veggies and Tortilla Chips Recipe. Each component plays a pivotal role, from the rich creaminess of the sauce to the fresh crispness of the vegetables and the satisfying crunch of tortilla chips.

Olive oil or avocado oil: Provides a healthy fat base for sautéing veggies and developing flavor, with a subtle fruitiness.
Minced garlic: Adds aromatic depth and savory warmth, best added toward the end of sautéing to avoid bitterness.
Bell pepper: Thinly sliced for a pop of color and sweet crunch, balancing the savory spices.
Small onion: Offers gentle sweetness and a tender bite when cooked, blending seamlessly into the dish.
Large sweet potato: Brings a hearty, earthy sweetness and tender texture; diced small so it cooks perfectly within the casserole.
Chili powder (chipotle preferred): Confers smoky heat that sets the tone for classic fajita flavors.
Ground cumin: A warm, nutty spice that enhances the savory character of the dish.
Paprika or smoked paprika: Adds subtle smoky notes and a beautiful red hue.
Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the ingredients’ flavors into focus.
Black pepper: Gives mild heat and sharpness that lifts the overall flavor profile.
Dairy-free butter or additional olive oil: Used to create a silky sauce base with lovely richness.
Arrowroot starch or cornstarch slurry: The secret to a perfectly thickened, creamy sauce without heaviness.
Diced tomatoes with green chiles: Bring bright acidity and a hint of spice for a vibrant, fresh sauce.
Unsweetened non-dairy milk or chicken broth: Adds creaminess or a lighter touch to suit dietary needs and preferences.
Lime juice (optional): Provides a zesty tang that refreshes the palate and enhances the tomato base.
Shredded cooked chicken: The protein star, tender and flavorful without overpowering the other ingredients.
Sharp cheddar cheese (or dairy-free alternative): Divided to add melty richness and golden topping crunch.
Gluten-free tortilla chips: Provide treasured crunch and texture contrast throughout the casserole.
Optional toppings like lettuce, cilantro, avocado, sour cream, salsa, or pico de gallo: Offer fresh brightness and extra flavor layers when serving.

How to Make Cheesy Chicken Fajita Casserole with Veggies and Tortilla Chips Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Fresh Veggies to Perfection

Begin by heating your chosen oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Toss in the onions and bell peppers, letting them soften just enough to become fragrant and tender, about two minutes. Then, add the garlic for a quick burst of aroma—just 30 to 60 seconds to avoid burning. Next, stir in the diced sweet potatoes and cover the skillet to allow them to steam and soften for about 4 to 5 minutes. After uncovering, continue to cook a bit longer, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes become tender but still hold their shape. If the pan seems dry, a touch more oil will help keep everything from sticking. This step builds the heart of the casserole, layering sweet, savory, and aromatic notes that will shine throughout the dish.

Step 2: Season and Set Aside the Veggies

Once your veggies are soft, it’s time to bring in the spices. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper for that unmistakable fajita flavor burst. These spices deepen the savory profile and add colorful warmth to the mixture. After seasoning thoroughly, transfer the veggies into a bowl and set them aside so we can create the luscious sauce next. This pause lets you bring all your components into harmony when you return to assembling the casserole.

Step 3: Craft the Creamy, Tangy Sauce

Clean your skillet—or use the same one—and melt your butter or warm olive oil over medium heat. Whisk in the non-dairy milk or chicken broth, gently bringing it to a slow simmer while scraping the flavorful browned bits off the bottom of the pan. Add the diced tomatoes with green chiles next, infusing the sauce with brightness and a little kick. Slowly drizzle in the arrowroot or cornstarch slurry, whisking diligently to avoid lumps. Within 3 to 5 minutes, you’ll see the sauce thicken to a velvety consistency. If you’re using milk, a splash of lime juice adds an irresistible tang that brightens the entire casserole.

Step 4: Combine Chicken, Veggies, Cheese, and Crunch

Now the fun part: stir the shredded chicken, half the sautéed veggies, and one cup of shredded cheese into the creamy sauce. Fold everything together gently to ensure even distribution without mashing the tender bites. Spread the remaining veggies evenly over the top, then layer gluten-free tortilla chips for that crunchy texture you’ll adore. Sprinkle the rest of the cheddar cheese over the chips, creating an irresistible golden blanket that will melt and bubble beautifully in the oven.

Step 5: Bake to Melty, Bubbly Perfection

Pop your skillet in a preheated 375°F oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. You’re aiming for a hot, bubbly casserole with golden edges that invite you in. For an extra touch of crispiness and visual appeal, broil the top for one last minute at the end—just keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn. This final step gives you that beautiful caramelized cheese topping that turns every forkful into pure comfort food joy.

How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Fajita Casserole with Veggies and Tortilla Chips Recipe

A black pan filled with a layered dish of melted golden orange cheese on top, covered with small chunks of bright red tomatoes and green herbs. Underneath the cheese, there are pieces of slightly crunchy textured chips mixed with a mix of red and green cooked vegetables, making a colorful base. Some cheese is melted into the sides of the pan, showing a rich, creamy texture. A silver spoon rests inside the pan, with a bit of the cheesy mixture on it. The pan sits on a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Pepping up the presentation with colorful garnishes is what makes this casserole feel special and restaurant-worthy. Fresh shredded lettuce adds a crisp, light bite that contrasts the creamy filling. Sprinkling chopped cilantro brings herbal freshness and a pop of green. Creamy avocado slices or dollops of guacamole introduce buttery richness, while sour cream and salsa provide cool and zesty notes. A spoonful of vibrant pico de gallo completes the dish with bright, fresh flavor and a splash of color that makes each serving irresistibly inviting.

Side Dishes

This Cheesy Chicken Fajita Casserole with Veggies and Tortilla Chips Recipe is a fantastic stand-alone meal but pairs wonderfully with simple sides. A crisp Mexican street corn salad or classic black beans create balanced, wholesome accompaniments. For something lighter, a handful of fresh corn tortilla chips and a citrusy side salad, featuring lime and chili-dusted avocado, will round out the meal with freshness and crunch without overshadowing the casserole’s bold flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling extra creative? Serve this casserole family-style in your skillet at the table and let everyone dig in together—the vibrant colors and enticing smells build excitement and warmth. Alternatively, portion it into individual ramekins for a charming presentation, perfect for dinner parties or meal prepping. You could also layer it like a dip for parties, scooping it up with tortilla chips to make a crowd-pleasing appetizer version that gets everyone talking.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Cheesy Chicken Fajita Casserole with Veggies and Tortilla Chips Recipe stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep leftovers in an airtight container to maintain moisture and prevent the tortilla chips from becoming soggy too quickly. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat gently to preserve the melty goodness.

Freezing

If you want to save time down the road, this casserole freezes well before baking. Assemble it in your oven-proof skillet or freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re craving a comforting meal, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding extra time if baking straight from frozen.

Reheating

For the best texture, reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again—usually about 15 to 20 minutes. If you’re short on time, microwave reheating works, but the oven will help maintain that delightful crispy top and layered textures you love in the Cheesy Chicken Fajita Casserole with Veggies and Tortilla Chips Recipe.

FAQs

Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! You can cook fresh chicken breasts or thighs, shred them, and use them in the casserole. Just make sure the chicken is cooked through before adding, as the casserole only bakes briefly to meld flavors and melt cheese.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! By using gluten-free tortilla chips and ensuring your spices and other ingredients don’t contain gluten, this dish is naturally gluten-free and safe for sensitive diets.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

For sure. Just substitute dairy-free butter and cheese alternatives, and use unsweetened non-dairy milk like coconut or almond milk instead of regular milk. The flavors remain delicious and satisfying!

What if I don’t have sweet potato? Can I use rice instead?

Yes, cooked rice makes a great substitute for sweet potato if you prefer a lighter texture. It won’t add the same sweetness but will absorb the creamy sauce beautifully for a great mouthfeel.

Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?

Feel free to customize! Sliced zucchini, corn kernels, or diced tomatoes work well. Just be mindful of moisture levels and adjust cooking time accordingly to keep the casserole balanced and not too watery.

Final Thoughts

The Cheesy Chicken Fajita Casserole with Veggies and Tortilla Chips Recipe is a total crowd-pleaser that brings together bold flavors, comforting textures, and vibrant colors in every bite. It’s simple enough for a busy weeknight but special enough to impress your friends and family. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become one of your go-to meals to warm hearts and fill bellies. So grab that skillet, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a deliciously cheesy fiesta sensation all in one dish!