All the flavors of your favorite Tex Mex dish but wrapped into a quinoa dish! This Lighter Chicken Fajita Casserole is a sync to throw together, making it perfect for busy nights!
When I think of winter, I immediately curse Mother Nature, kidding, sorta. No really; I immediately think of comfort dishes. Cheesy, gooey dishes that are so rich they keep you full and happy for hours on end! One evening I was feeling like a bit of a fiesta so I set out to make a lighter dish that was a way less time consuming then making a full Mexican spread. Let’s be honest, I had a margarita calling my name.
I have a special place in my heart for quinoa and for many reasons. You can even say I am tad bit obsessed. And for good reasons! A quick cooking, gluten free, whole grain that is a nutritional powerhouse. It contains more antioxidants, protein and fiber than any other grain; which is the perfect reason for me to substitute any recipe that calls for rice, couscous and even pasta!
The base is caramelized onions and bell peppers. Theory nutty and sweet flavor are seasoned with spices for a huge flavor kick. Just a slight burn that keeps you coming back. Then homemade enchilada sauce is added. The mixture all then simmers for the flavors to marry. Once the mixture is heated, cooked quinoa and green chiles are added for a little extra heat because what are fajitas without a spicy finish?
Then the best part is thrown in. You didn’t think I would miss a chance to devour melty cheese, did you? Perfectly creamy, spicy cheese makes any mexican dinner and it completes this dish for sure. I have been obsessed with Kraft’s new Jalapeno White Cheddar Cheese that I have been sneaking it into every dish I can. Its out of this world delicious. Think of the possibilities of homemade cheese dip!
With all the chicken fajita flavored packed into a healthy and comforting and skinny winter casserole, you will save enough room for a much needed margarita! Ole!
All the flavors of your favorite Tex Mex dish but wrapped into a quinoa dish! This Lighter Chicken Fajita Casserole is a sync to throw together, making it perfect for busy nights!
15 minPrep Time
15 minCook Time
30 minTotal Time
Yields 6
Save RecipeIngredients
- 1 lb chicken, cooked and shredded
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 white onion, diced
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 1/2 each red, yellow and green bell pepper, diced
- 1 Tbsp chile powder
- 1 Tbsp garlic powder
- 1 Tbsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- 1/8 tsp cayenne
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can diced green chiles
- 1 cup Enchilada Sauce
- 3/4 cup + 1/2 cup Kraft White Cheddar Cheese, shredded
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- Garnishes: Green Onion, Jalapenos, extra shredded cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- In a large sauce pan, heat olive oil. Add onion and peppers. Saute for 10 minutes or until onions are caramelize and soft. Add spices and combine well.
- Add blacked beans, green chiles, enchilada sauce and shredded chicken.
- In large bowl, combine chicken mixture, quinoa and 3/4 cup shredded cheese.
- Add to greased 9x13 baking dish. Top with remaining 1/2 cup cheese.
- Bake for 10 - 15 minutes, or until heated through.
- Broil for 1 - 2 minutes until cheese is melted completely.
- Let sit for 5 minutes then serve with garnishes and a margarita!
Hungry for more Mexican inspired dishes?
Skinny Queso Dip {Made with Greek Yogurt}
{30 Minute} Coconut Lime Shrimp Tacos with Mango, Red Pepper & Avocado Salsa
Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pork Burrito Bowls
If you make this recipe, make sure to snap a photo and hashtag it #HOUSEWIFEINTRAININGFILES. I’d love to see what you are cooking up in your kitchen!
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