If you’re craving a comfort food classic with a zesty, south-of-the-border vibe, this Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s loaded with juicy shredded chicken, tomatoes with a kick from green chilies, gooey cheese, and layers of crunchy tortilla chips, all baked to bubbly, golden perfection. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend gathering, this dish effortlessly brings family and friends to the table thanks to its irresistible aroma and flavor-packed layers. Once you try this Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe, you’ll want to keep it on regular rotation!
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the joys of the Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe is that every ingredient works hard to bring something special to the table—flavor, texture, or color—all while staying fuss-free. You’ll find lots of pantry staples on this list, making it fast, flexible, and oh-so-savory.
- Cooked, shredded chicken (3 cups): Rotisserie chicken makes prep a breeze and gives the casserole extra tenderness.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps soften the onion and releases all those sweet, savory notes.
- Small onion, diced: Adds aromatic depth and a hint of sweetness.
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies (1 can, 10 oz): A vibrant blend that brings a mild heat and colorful tang.
- Cream of chicken soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): Delivers creamy goodness, binding everything together.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): For richness and a tangy, cooling undertone to balance the spices.
- Chili powder (1 teaspoon): Gives the casserole its signature Tex-Mex warmth.
- Ground cumin (1/2 teaspoon): Adds earthy notes essential for that classic Mexican flavor profile.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses a touch of savoriness throughout every bite.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the other flavors to perfection.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups, divided): Melts into each layer for gooey, cheesy comfort.
- Crushed tortilla chips (2 cups): Offer a crunchy contrast and playful, kid-friendly texture.
- Chopped fresh cilantro (1/4 cup, optional): Sprinkled on top for a burst of freshness and color.
How to Make Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start your Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). There’s something satisfying about getting the whole kitchen cozy and ready, so while the oven heats, gather your ingredients. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure easy serving and cleanup later.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion
In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and diced onion. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until the onion turns soft and translucent, releasing that mouth-watering fragrance. This simple step unlocks a sweet base that echoes through each bite of your casserole.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sautéed onion, drained tomatoes with green chilies, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and 1 cup of cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until it’s fully mixed—this hearty filling is the real flavor engine of your Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe.
Step 4: Layer the Casserole
Sprinkle half of the crushed tortilla chips evenly on the bottom of your greased baking dish. Next, pile the chicken mixture over the chips, smoothing it into a generous, even layer. Top with the rest of the crushed chips, and finally, the remaining cup of cheddar cheese—this ensures every forkful is a delightful combination of cheesy and crunchy.
Step 5: Bake and Finish
Bake the casserole uncovered for 25–30 minutes. When the cheese is melted, bubbling, and golden, the hardest part is resisting the urge to grab a fork straight away! Let it cool for a few minutes so the layers can set, then finish with a scattering of chopped cilantro for a bright, herbal finish if you wish.
How to Serve Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh cilantro brings color and a crisp, aromatic lift, but don’t stop there if you love variety. Try a dollop of extra sour cream, a dash of hot sauce, or chopped green onions for crunch. Avocado slices or a squeeze of lime also add irresistible freshness to your Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a lime vinaigrette or classic Mexican rice for a filling weeknight dinner. For extra flair, serve it alongside refried beans or a simple corn and black bean salad—the flavors balance each other perfectly and round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn this comfort classic into a centerpiece by serving it family-style with all the toppings on the side so everyone can customize their plate. For a party-friendly twist, scoop the Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe into individual ramekins or small tortilla bowls. Even leftovers can become a tasty filling for burritos or quesadillas the next day!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover casserole to an airtight container and refrigerate. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal-prep lunches or a second round of cozy comfort food.
Freezing
You can freeze the assembled, unbaked casserole or leftovers for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best results.
Reheating
Warm individual portions in the microwave for a speedy meal, or reheat the entire casserole (covered loosely with foil) in a 350°F oven until heated through—this helps preserve the delicious texture of those tortilla chips.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! Monterey Jack or pepper jack both melt beautifully and offer extra flavor. Feel free to mix and match based on what you love or have on hand.
Is it possible to make this Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe ahead of time?
Definitely. Assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature while the oven preheats and then bake as usual.
Can I add extra vegetables?
Yes, this Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe is endlessly customizable! Try adding black beans, corn, or even spinach for a boost of color, texture, and nutrition.
What’s the best chicken to use for this recipe?
Rotisserie chicken is wonderfully convenient and flavorful, but any cooked and shredded chicken works—leftovers, poached, or roasted are all great options.
How do I keep the tortilla chips from getting soggy?
A quick bake in the oven helps keep the chips crispy around the edges. Serving immediately after baking is the best way to enjoy that perfect blend of creamy and crunchy!
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about a recipe that comes together as easily as this Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe and packs in so much flavor. Give it a try—your taste buds (and your family) will thank you! Don’t be surprised if you find yourself coming back to this comforting casserole again and again.
Print
Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Mexican Chicken Casserole recipe is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a family dinner. Packed with flavorful ingredients like shredded chicken, cheese, and spices, this hearty casserole is sure to be a hit at the dinner table.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 2 cups crushed tortilla chips
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Sauté onion: In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and sauté the diced onion until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Mix ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, sautéed onion, diced tomatoes, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until fully mixed.
- Layer and bake: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the crushed tortilla chips, followed by the chicken mixture. Top with remaining chips and cheese. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and serve: Let cool slightly, then garnish with chopped cilantro before serving warm.
Notes
Notes:
- Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience.
- Add black beans or corn for extra flavor and texture.
- Use pepper jack cheese for a spicier version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 740 mg
- Fat: 29 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 27 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
