Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe

This Mexican Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food with a flavorful twist! Packed with tender chicken, hearty beans, zesty salsa, and gooey cheese, this dish combines everything you love about Mexican cuisine into a simple, easy-to-make casserole. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even a potluck, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Plus, it’s highly customizable, so you can adjust it to suit your tastes or whatever ingredients you have on hand.

Ready to make this delicious meal? Let’s get started with this easy-to-follow Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe!

What Is Mexican Chicken Casserole?

Mexican Chicken Casserole is a one-dish meal that combines shredded chicken, tortillas (or chips), salsa, beans, cheese, and a variety of seasonings to create a flavorful, satisfying casserole that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Layers of zesty Mexican flavors are baked to perfection, making this casserole a go-to dish for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients List for Mexican Chicken Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Mexican Chicken Casserole:

For the Casserole:

• 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 8 oz (about 2 cups) shredded Mexican cheese blend (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a combination)
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel)
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1 can (10 oz) cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom soup)
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup salsa (your favorite kind – mild, medium, or hot)
• 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
• 12 corn tortillas (or tortilla chips, if you prefer a crunchy topping)
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 cup cooked rice (for added texture)
• 1 cup sautéed bell peppers or onions
• ½ cup sliced black olives (for a briny kick)
• 1-2 diced jalapeños (for heat)

Substitutions and Variations

The beauty of this recipe is how easy it is to adapt to your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some ideas for substitutions and variations:

• Chicken: You can use shredded rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or even leftover turkey for this recipe. For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with extra beans, tofu, or a plant-based chicken substitute.
• Tortillas: While corn tortillas are traditional in this dish, you can use flour tortillas, tortilla chips, or even a layer of cooked rice as a base.
• Beans: Black beans are classic, but pinto beans, kidney beans, or refried beans work just as well.
• Cheese: Use any type of melty cheese you like, such as cheddar, mozzarella, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend.
• Spice Level: Adjust the heat to your liking by choosing mild, medium, or hot salsa. You can also add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes if you like it spicy!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to make this delicious Mexican Chicken Casserole in just a few easy steps.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, taco seasoning, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Stir until everything is well combined and the chicken is evenly coated in the sauce.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Layer the Casserole

• Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
• Place a layer of corn tortillas (or tortilla chips) at the bottom of the dish, covering it completely. Tear the tortillas into pieces if needed to fit.
• Spread half of the chicken mixture evenly over the tortillas.
• Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the chicken mixture.
• Add another layer of tortillas, followed by the remaining chicken mixture, and top with the rest of the cheese.

Step 3: Bake the Casserole

• Cover the casserole with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
• After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

• Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
• Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, and if you like, add toppings such as diced avocado, sour cream, jalapeños, or salsa.
• Serve warm, and enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Mexican Chicken Casserole turns out perfect every time, here are a few common mistakes to avoid:

• Soggy Tortillas: To avoid soggy tortillas, try lightly toasting them in a dry skillet before layering them in the casserole. You can also use tortilla chips for a crunchier texture.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on the casserole during the last 10 minutes to prevent the cheese from burning. Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, it’s ready to come out of the oven.
• Undercooked Chicken: Be sure to use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe. Raw chicken will release too much liquid and won’t cook through properly in the short baking time.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This Mexican Chicken Casserole is a hearty and filling dish on its own, but here are a few ideas on how to serve and present it for maximum flavor and appeal.

How to Serve Mexican Chicken Casserole

• Portion Sizes: Use a large serving spoon or spatula to scoop out generous portions of the casserole, ensuring each serving has plenty of layers.
• Side Dishes: Pair the casserole with a simple side salad, Mexican rice, or refried beans. A side of guacamole or chips and salsa is always a hit.
• Toppings: Customize each serving with your favorite toppings, like sour cream, avocado slices, jalapeños, extra salsa, or a squeeze of lime juice for brightness.

Presentation Ideas for Mexican Chicken Casserole

• Family-Style: Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish at the center of the table. Let everyone help themselves to a scoop of this cheesy, delicious meal.
• Individual Plates: For a more elegant presentation, plate individual portions and top with garnishes like fresh cilantro, diced avocado, and a drizzle of sour cream.

Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe Tips

Here are a few additional tips to help you make the best Mexican Chicken Casserole every time:

• Make-Ahead Option: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add 5-10 minutes to the baking time to account for the chilled ingredients.
• Freezing Instructions: This casserole freezes well! After assembling (but before baking), wrap the casserole tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
A: Yes! Rotisserie chicken is perfect for this recipe and saves time. Simply shred the chicken and mix it with the other ingredients as directed.

Q: Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
A: Absolutely! You can use flour tortillas, but keep in mind that they may become softer after baking. If you prefer a crispier texture, tortilla chips are a great alternative.

Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: For extra heat, use hot salsa or diced jalapeños in the chicken mixture. You can also sprinkle some cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes! Make sure to use gluten-free tortillas and double-check that your taco seasoning and cream soup are gluten-free to make this casserole suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Q: Can I add rice to the casserole?
A: Yes, cooked rice is a great addition to this casserole. You can mix about 1 cup of cooked rice into the chicken mixture for extra texture and heartiness.

Conclusion

This Mexican Chicken Casserole is the perfect blend of bold Mexican flavors, creamy textures, and cheesy goodness all baked into one delicious dish. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and ideal for feeding a hungry family or crowd. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick weeknight dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this casserole is sure to be a hit. So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a flavorful, satisfying meal that everyone will love!

Print