Are you craving a mouthwatering Mexican-inspired dish that won't derail your healthy eating goals? Look no further! This Low-Fat Chicken Fajitas Casserole is about to become your new favorite weeknight dinner solution. Packed with protein, bursting with flavor, and incredibly easy to prepare, this recipe transforms the classic fajita experience into a comforting, nutritious casserole that will have your entire family begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 cup low-fat cheese, shredded
- 6 whole wheat tortillas, cut into strips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Season sliced chicken breasts with cumin and chili powder, ensuring even coating of the spices.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sauté the sliced bell peppers and onions until they become slightly softened and start to caramelize, about 5-6 minutes.
- Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook until the chicken is no longer pink and has a light golden color, approximately 6-7 minutes.
- In the prepared baking dish, layer the cut whole wheat tortilla strips as the first base layer, covering the bottom of the dish.
- Add the drained black beans and corn over the tortilla strips, creating an even distribution.
- Spread the cooked chicken, bell peppers, and onions evenly over the bean and corn layer.
- Pour the salsa over the entire casserole, ensuring it covers most of the ingredients.
- Sprinkle the low-fat shredded cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and become slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the ingredients to set.
- Slice and serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh cilantro, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or sliced green onions.
Tips
- For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken in the spices for 30 minutes before cooking if time allows.
- Use fresh vegetables when possible for the best texture and taste.
- Don't overcook the chicken - it should be just golden and not dry.
- For extra crispiness, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking.
- Choose whole wheat tortillas for added fiber and nutrition.
- Customize the heat level by adjusting the amount of chili powder or adding hot sauce.
- Prep ingredients in advance to make weeknight cooking a breeze.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow flavors to meld and set.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 75mg
