Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Mexican Chicken Casserole is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together the best of Mexican cuisine in one easy-to-make casserole. With layers of seasoned chicken, cheesy goodness, and a mix of colorful vegetables and spices, this casserole is a surefire crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, feeding a hungry family, or looking for a make-ahead meal, Mexican Chicken Casserole delivers on taste and convenience.

What sets Mexican Chicken Casserole apart is its bold, zesty flavor profile, which combines ingredients like salsa, sour cream, and a variety of spices that bring life to the casserole’s creamy and cheesy texture. It’s a versatile recipe, so you can adjust the level of heat or customize the vegetables to your liking, making it a dish that everyone can enjoy. Plus, with its ability to be made ahead of time and baked in one pan, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick, delicious, and comforting meal.

In this article, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of making Mexican Chicken Casserole, offer helpful tips, and suggest variations to suit your tastes. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love Mexican Chicken Casserole

• Bold, Flavorful Ingredients: Packed with seasoned chicken, zesty salsa, and a variety of spices, this casserole bursts with bold Mexican flavors. It’s the perfect blend of cheesy, creamy, and spicy that makes it irresistible.
• One-Pan Meal: Mexican Chicken Casserole is made in a single baking dish, which makes cleanup a breeze. All the layers of ingredients meld together while baking, so you don’t need to worry about multiple pots and pans.
• Family-Friendly: With its cheesy, comforting nature and customizable spice level, Mexican Chicken Casserole is perfect for feeding the whole family, including picky eaters. You can adjust the heat by controlling the type of salsa and spices used.
• Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly: This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. It’s a great dish to prepare for a busy week or when you’re expecting guests.
• Versatile: The beauty of this casserole is that it’s highly customizable. You can add or remove ingredients based on what you have on hand, and the recipe can easily be made gluten-free or low-carb if needed.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 55 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 400-450 calories, depending on portion sizes and ingredient choices.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400-450 kcal
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g

Ingredients

For the Mexican Chicken Casserole:

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (about 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts)
• 1 can (10 ounces) red or green salsa
• 1 can (10 ounces) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning mix)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese (divided)
• 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies
• 1 cup frozen corn (optional)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
• 1 cup tortilla chips, crushed (for topping)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken

The first step in preparing your Mexican Chicken Casserole is cooking the chicken. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken, or cook the chicken yourself. To cook the chicken, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, shred or cube the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Vegetables

While the chicken is cooking, you can prepare the vegetables. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in the same skillet, and sauté the chopped onion and bell pepper (if using) for about 3-4 minutes, or until softened. You can also add frozen corn at this point if you’re using it. Once the vegetables are tender, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.

3. Mix the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, salsa, sour cream, and taco seasoning. Stir until the mixture is smooth and all the ingredients are well combined. You can adjust the seasoning at this stage by adding extra salt, pepper, or additional taco seasoning if desired. If you prefer a spicier casserole, you can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder.

4. Combine the Ingredients

Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, and diced green chilies into the mixing bowl with the sauce. Stir everything together until the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated with the creamy sauce. Make sure the mixture is well combined before proceeding to the next step.

5. Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Pour the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the top of the casserole. These cheeses will melt beautifully and create a creamy, cheesy layer that holds everything together.

6. Add the Topping

For an added crunch and extra flavor, crush 1 cup of tortilla chips and sprinkle them over the top of the casserole. The chips will bake into a crispy topping that contrasts perfectly with the creamy filling below.

7. Bake the Casserole

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. After 40 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is hot throughout.

8. Cool and Serve

Once the casserole is baked, remove it from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. This will help the casserole set and make it easier to cut and serve. Garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or a squeeze of lime for added freshness.

Serve your Mexican Chicken Casserole with a side of Mexican rice, black beans, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Mexican Chicken Casserole

• Use Leftover Chicken: This is a great dish to use up leftover chicken. Whether it’s rotisserie chicken or chicken from another meal, it saves you time and adds even more flavor to the casserole.
• Make It Spicy: If you enjoy spice, feel free to add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the casserole mixture. You can also opt for a spicier salsa to kick up the heat.
• Make It Ahead: Mexican Chicken Casserole can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply assemble the casserole and refrigerate it (covered with foil) until you’re ready to bake. If you want to freeze it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed.
• Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables to your casserole to suit your tastes. You can use diced zucchini, mushrooms, or even fresh spinach for an extra nutrient boost.
• Use Fresh Tortillas: For a more authentic flavor, you can use fresh corn tortillas instead of the tortilla chips for the topping. Cut the tortillas into strips and layer them on top of the casserole before baking.
• Reduce the Heat: If you’re making this casserole for kids or those who don’t enjoy spicy food, opt for a mild salsa and avoid adding any extra spices. The creamy ingredients like sour cream and cheese will balance out the heat.

Variations of Mexican Chicken Casserole

• Chicken Enchilada Casserole: To make your casserole taste like chicken enchiladas, use enchilada sauce instead of salsa and layer corn tortillas in between the chicken mixture.
• Low-Carb Mexican Chicken Casserole: To make this casserole low-carb, replace the corn and tortilla chips with cauliflower rice and a low-carb tortilla option, such as almond flour tortillas.
• Vegetarian Mexican Casserole: For a meatless version, replace the chicken with black beans or pinto beans. You can also add extra veggies like corn, zucchini, and bell peppers to make it more hearty.
• Cheesy Mexican Chicken Casserole: Add more cheese to your casserole for a gooey, cheesy texture. You can use a variety of cheeses such as pepper jack, gouda, or mozzarella for a different twist.

Storage and Shelf Life

Mexican Chicken Casserole makes great leftovers. After the casserole has cooled to room temperature, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or bake the casserole at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, until it is heated through.

You can also freeze this casserole for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and store it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as usual.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Mexican Chicken Casserole

• Mexican Rice: Serve the casserole with traditional Mexican rice, which pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of the casserole.
• Black Beans: A side of seasoned black beans adds extra protein and fiber, and complements the Mexican flavors of the casserole.
• Guacamole and Chips: Serve a side of fresh guacamole and tortilla chips for a classic Mexican appetizer or snack to accompany the casserole.
• Fresh Salad: A simple salad with lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, and a light vinaigrette will provide a refreshing balance to the rich, cheesy casserole.

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Conclusion

Mexican Chicken Casserole is a fun, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that will quickly become a family favorite. With its layers of seasoned chicken, creamy sauce, zesty salsa, and gooey cheese, this casserole brings all the best flavors of Mexican cuisine into one dish. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or preparing a meal for a crowd, Mexican Chicken Casserole is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

Its versatility and ability to be customized make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it mild or spicy, with extra veggies or extra cheese, Mexican Chicken Casserole is a dish that can easily be tailored to your preferences. Try it out today and enjoy the bold, delicious flavors of this comforting, one-pan meal.