Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe for Fiesta Night

Comfort comes alive in this soul-warming mexican chicken casserole that promises a fiesta of flavors.

Layers of tender chicken, melted cheese, and zesty spices create a delicious melody on your plate.

Weeknight dinners just got an exciting upgrade with this hearty dish.

Cheesy, spicy, and incredibly satisfying, the recipe combines simple ingredients into something magical.

Family members will cheer when this casserole lands on the dinner table.

Crispy tortilla edges and rich, creamy filling make every bite a celebration of southwestern cuisine.

Prepare to fall in love with this crowd-pleasing meal that brings joy to your kitchen.

Why Mexican Chicken Casserole Hits All the Right Notes

• This casserole comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Packed with kid-loved ingredients like cheese, chicken, and chips, this dish ensures everyone at the table will be happy and well-fed with minimal cooking stress.
• Swap ingredients based on what's in your pantry – use different types of beans, proteins, or even adjust spice levels to match your family's taste preferences without complicated recipe modifications.
• This Mexican-inspired casserole delivers a hearty, one-dish meal that's ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, or casual dinner parties, providing maximum flavor with minimal effort.

What You’ll Need for a Spicy Chicken Casserole

• Shredded Chicken: Hearty and tender protein that forms the main body of the casserole, best when cooked and shredded from rotisserie or home-roasted chicken.
• Black Beans: Rich protein source that adds texture and earthy flavor, canned or freshly cooked beans work well.

• Sour Cream: Creamy element that adds richness and tanginess to the casserole.
• Cheese: Melty topping that creates a golden, crispy layer with delicious flavor, sharp cheddar or Mexican blend recommended.

• Corn: Sweet and crunchy vegetable that provides additional texture and color.
• Rotel: Spicy tomato mixture that brings moisture and zesty southwestern flavor.
• Salsa: Additional sauce that helps bind ingredients and adds extra kick.

• Cumin: Warm, earthy spice that gives authentic mexican taste.
• Chili Powder: Adds depth and mild heat to the dish.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings for balancing overall flavor.

• Tortilla Chips or Tortillas: Crunchy base layer that creates interesting texture, can be corn or flour tortillas.

• Cilantro: Fresh herb for bright flavor.
• Green Onions: Adds mild onion taste and color.
• Avocado: Creamy topping for extra richness.

Layering a Bold Mexican Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Create Flavor Explosion

• Shredded chicken
• Black beans
• Corn
• Rotel tomatoes
• Sour cream
• Salsa
• Cumin
• Chili powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Mix ingredients thoroughly until everything is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Prepare Baking Vessel

Generously grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter.

Step 4: Build First Layer

Spread a base layer of crushed tortilla chips or corn tortillas across the bottom of the dish.

Step 5: Add First Chicken Layer

Spoon half of the chicken mixture over the chip layer.

Sprinkle one cup of shredded cheese on top.

Step 6: Create Second Layer

Repeat the layering process with remaining chips and chicken mixture.

Top with the final cup of cheese.

Step 7: Bake Under Wraps

Cover the dish with aluminum foil.

Bake for 25 minutes.

Step 8: Crisp and Melt

Remove foil and continue baking for 10-15 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 9: Rest and Garnish

Allow casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes.

Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro, chopped green onions, or diced avocado before serving.

Tips for Melty Cheese and Juicy Chicken

• Customize Chip Choices: Swap tortilla chips with corn chips, whole grain tortilla chips, or gluten-free alternatives for different dietary needs and flavor variations.
• Prevent Soggy Bottom: Layer crushed chips carefully and don't oversaturate with salsa to maintain a crispy texture throughout the casserole.
• Boost Protein Power: Add extra protein by incorporating drained black beans, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even diced cooked chorizo for more depth.
• Make Ahead Magic: Prepare the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready – perfect for meal prep and busy weeknights.
• Control Spice Level: Adjust heat by choosing mild or hot Rotel, reducing chili powder, or adding a splash of jalapeños for those who love extra kick.

How to Store and Reheat a Mexican Casserole

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping the casserole fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months; label with the date for easy tracking.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm at 350F for 15-20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
• Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even warming.

What to Serve on the Side

• Blend fresh lime juice, tequila, and a touch of triple sec to complement the spicy, tangy flavors of the Mexican chicken casserole.
• Chop ripe tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños to create a bright, refreshing salsa that cuts through the rich, cheesy casserole.
• Toss shredded cabbage with lime juice, cilantro, and a light creamy dressing to balance the warm, hearty casserole with a crisp, cool side.
• Select a light Mexican beer like Corona or Modelo to refresh the palate and match the dish's bold Southwestern flavors.

Creative Twists for a Casserole Night

• Vegetarian Bean Swap: Replace chicken with extra firm tofu or black beans for a meat-free protein option that keeps the casserole hearty and satisfying.
• Keto-Friendly Low-Carb Version: Substitute tortilla chips with crushed pork rinds or almond flour-based chips, and use full-fat sour cream to reduce carbohydrates while maintaining rich flavor.
• Gluten-Free Modification: Choose gluten-free tortilla chips or corn chips, and verify all seasoning packets are certified gluten-free to make the dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Swap regular cheese with dairy-free cheese alternatives made from cashews or almonds, and use coconut-based sour cream to create a creamy texture without dairy products.

Chicken Casserole FAQs for Busy Cooks

• Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time. Shred the chicken meat and use it as a quick protein option.

• Is this recipe spicy?

The heat level depends on the salsa and Rotel you choose. Select mild versions if you prefer less spice, or use hot varieties for more kick.

• Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Just add 5-10 extra minutes to cooking time.

• What if I don't have tortilla chips?

Corn tortillas work great as a replacement. Tear or cut them into smaller pieces and layer just like the chips in the original recipe.

Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe

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4.5 from 31 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Sizzling Mexican chicken casserole brings zesty flavors straight from home kitchens south of the border. Layers of tender chicken, melted cheese, and spicy seasonings create a comforting meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Proteins and Main Ingredients:

• 3 cups (720 milliliters) cooked shredded chicken
• 2 cups (480 milliliters) shredded Mexican blend cheese
• 1 can (15 ounces/425 grams) black beans, drained and rinsed

Vegetables and Aromatics:

• 1 cup (240 milliliters) frozen corn (thawed) or 1 can corn, drained
• 1 can (10 ounces/285 grams) Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies), drained
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Binding and Flavor Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240 milliliters) sour cream
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) salsa
• 3 cups (720 milliliters) crushed tortilla chips or 8 small flour tortillas, torn

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Instructions

1. Heat oven to 375F (190C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. In a spacious mixing bowl, thoroughly combine shredded chicken, black beans, corn, Rotel tomatoes, sour cream, salsa, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper until ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Create the first base layer by spreading crushed tortilla chips or tortillas across the bottom of the greased dish.
4. Distribute half of the seasoned chicken mixture uniformly over the chip layer, ensuring even coverage.
5. Sprinkle the first portion of shredded cheese generously across the chicken mixture.
6. Construct a second layer by adding remaining tortilla chips or crushed tortillas over the cheese.
7. Top the chip layer with remaining chicken mixture, spreading carefully to cover entire surface.
8. Finish the casserole by covering the top with the final layer of shredded cheese.
9. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes in the preheated oven.
10. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is fully melted and edges are golden brown.
11. Allow casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes after removing from oven to help set and cool slightly.
12. Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro, chopped green onions, or diced avocado before serving.

Notes

• Swap tortilla chips for gluten-free alternatives to make the casserole celiac-friendly and accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream to reduce fat content and boost protein while maintaining creamy texture.
• Customize spice levels by adjusting chili powder and cumin amounts, catering to individual heat preferences without overwhelming the dish.
• Prepare chicken mixture ahead of time and refrigerate for more intense flavor development and convenient meal planning.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 335
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 950 mg
• Fat: 24 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 13 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 18 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg