Pioneer Woman Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe

Are you in the mood for a satisfying and flavorful dish that’s easy to make? Look no further than the Pioneer Woman Mexican Chicken Casserole! Loaded with tender chicken, zesty spices, creamy sauces, and topped with gooey melted cheese, this casserole is a family-friendly dinner option that will have everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for busy weeknights, gatherings, or potlucks, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Read on for a step-by-step guide, helpful tips, and delicious variations to make this Mexican-inspired comfort food your own.

What is a Mexican Chicken Casserole?

A Mexican Chicken Casserole is a warm and hearty dish that combines layers of shredded chicken, tortillas, salsa, beans, cheese, and a creamy sauce, all baked to golden perfection. It’s a fusion of traditional Mexican flavors and classic casserole comfort. Think of it as a taco or enchilada in casserole form! The dish can be customized with your favorite ingredients, such as black beans, corn, or different types of cheese, to suit your taste preferences.

The Pioneer Woman’s version of this casserole is known for its simplicity, bold flavors, and crowd-pleasing appeal. It’s ideal for when you want something filling, flavorful, and relatively quick to prepare.

Ingredients List for Pioneer Woman Mexican Chicken Casserole

Here are the main ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious casserole:

• 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 8 small corn tortillas, cut into quarters
• 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce (red or green)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• Sliced jalapeños (optional, for heat)

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is very versatile, allowing for many substitutions and variations based on what you have in your pantry or your personal preferences. Here are some ideas:

1. Protein Options: You can substitute the shredded chicken with ground beef, turkey, or even shredded pork for a different flavor profile.
2. Different Tortillas: Corn tortillas are traditional in Mexican dishes, but you can use flour tortillas if preferred or substitute them with tortilla chips for added crunch.
3. Vegan Version: To make a plant-based version, use shredded jackfruit instead of chicken, swap the cream of chicken soup with a plant-based cream soup, and use dairy-free cheese.
4. Spice Level: Adjust the heat by choosing mild, medium, or hot enchilada sauce. You can also add fresh or pickled jalapeños for an extra kick!
5. Cheese Swap: Feel free to use any cheese you like. Pepper jack, Colby Jack, or a Mexican blend cheese will all work well.
6. Additional Vegetables: Add sautéed bell peppers, diced zucchini, or spinach for extra veggies.
7. Toppings Galore: Serve with guacamole, salsa, sliced avocados, or sour cream to elevate the dish.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make the Pioneer Woman Mexican Chicken Casserole:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Rotel tomatoes, black beans, corn, and chopped onions. Add in the garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and enchilada sauce until smooth. This mixture will create the creamy base for the casserole and give it its rich, saucy texture.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole

Now it’s time to assemble the casserole! Start by spreading a small amount of the creamy sauce mixture at the bottom of the baking dish. This prevents the tortillas from sticking.

1. First Layer: Lay half of the quartered tortillas in an even layer on the bottom of the dish.
2. Second Layer: Spoon half of the chicken mixture over the tortillas, spreading it evenly.
3. Third Layer: Pour half of the creamy sauce mixture over the chicken and top with half of the shredded cheese (1 cup cheddar and ½ cup Monterey Jack).
4. Repeat: Repeat the layers—tortillas, chicken mixture, creamy sauce, and cheese.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to brown and bubble.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the casserole is out of the oven, let it rest for 5-10 minutes to set. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and sliced jalapeños, if desired, for an extra burst of flavor.

How to Cook Pioneer Woman Mexican Chicken Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Cook the Chicken: If you’re not using rotisserie chicken, cook 3 chicken breasts in boiling water with salt and pepper until fully cooked (about 15-20 minutes). Shred the chicken with two forks or use a hand mixer for easy shredding.
2. Prepare the Ingredients: Drain and rinse the black beans, drain the corn, and chop the onions and tortillas. Having everything ready before you start layering makes the process quicker.
3. Assemble with Care: Make sure to spread each layer evenly for consistent flavors throughout the dish.
4. Bake Until Golden: The casserole is done when the cheese is melted and bubbling. For a golden top, you can broil it for 2-3 minutes at the end—just watch it closely to avoid burning.
5. Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest before serving to make it easier to cut and serve neatly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Draining the Beans and Corn: Excess liquid can make the casserole soggy, so be sure to thoroughly drain the beans and corn before adding them to the dish.
• Overbaking: Baking too long can dry out the casserole, so keep an eye on it and remove it from the oven as soon as the cheese is melted and golden.
• Using Too Much Salt: The cream of chicken soup, cheese, and enchilada sauce are already salty, so be careful when adding additional salt to the dish.
• Skipping the Resting Time: Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking helps it firm up and makes serving easier.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Pioneer Woman Mexican Chicken Casserole

• Family Style: Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish for a casual, family-friendly dinner. It’s perfect for buffet-style dinners, where everyone can help themselves.
• With Sides: Pair the casserole with a side of Spanish rice, refried beans, or a light green salad for a complete meal.
• Taco Bar: Turn this into a taco casserole by serving with warm tortillas, fresh salsa, and guacamole on the side so everyone can build their own taco bowls.

Presentation Ideas for Pioneer Woman Mexican Chicken Casserole

• Garnish with Color: Sprinkle chopped cilantro, green onions, or red bell peppers on top for a burst of color.
• Serve with Lime Wedges: Lime adds a fresh, tangy contrast to the rich flavors of the casserole, so serving lime wedges on the side is a nice touch.
• Top with Crushed Tortilla Chips: For a crunchy texture, sprinkle crushed tortilla chips over the casserole just before serving.

Pioneer Woman Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: This casserole is perfect for meal prepping. Assemble the dish the night before, cover it with foil, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven.
• Double the Recipe: If you’re cooking for a crowd or want leftovers, double the ingredients and bake in a larger dish or in two separate 9x13-inch pans.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate until you're ready to bake.

2. Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes beautifully. Assemble the casserole and freeze it before baking, or freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.

3. Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?

Absolutely! Flour tortillas will work just as well, though corn tortillas provide a more authentic Mexican flavor.

4. Can I make this recipe spicier?

To amp up the heat, use hot enchilada sauce, add extra jalapeños, or sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

5. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quicker option.

Conclusion

This Pioneer Woman Mexican Chicken Casserole is a comforting, cheesy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender chicken, zesty enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, and melted cheese makes for a winning meal that’s easy to prepare and always a hit with the family. Whether you’re making it ahead for a busy weeknight or serving it at a potluck, this casserole is sure to please!

Print