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Cheesy Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe

Cheesy Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe


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4.8 from 8 reviews

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 7 1x

Description

Hearty Mexican chicken casserole delivers a fiesta of flavors that dance across your palate with zesty spices and comforting textures. Cheesy, layered goodness promises a delightful meal you’ll savor to the last bite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups shredded chicken (rotisserie)
  • 2 cups Mexican blend cheese
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup salsa
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (10 oz / 285 g) Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies), drained
  • 1 cup frozen corn (thawed) or 1 can corn, drained
  • 3 cups crushed tortilla chips or 8 small flour tortillas, torn
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare Base: Create a flavor-packed foundation by thoroughly blending shredded chicken, black beans, corn, Rotel, sour cream, salsa, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper into a harmonious mixture.
  2. Layer Foundation: Generously coat a 9×13-inch casserole dish with non-stick spray, then craft the first stratum by spreading crushed chips or tortillas across the bottom, creating a crisp base.
  3. Build First Layer: Lavishly distribute half of the seasoned chicken mixture over the chip foundation, followed by a generous sprinkle of cheese, ensuring even coverage.
  4. Construct Final Layer: Repeat the layering process with remaining chips and chicken mixture, crowning the casserole with a final blanket of cheese for maximum flavor and golden-brown appeal.
  5. Bake and Transform: Shield the casserole with foil and slide into a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven. Bake for 25 minutes, then unveil and continue cooking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese melts into a bubbling, enticing surface.
  6. Rest and Garnish: Allow the casserole to settle for 5-10 minutes, letting flavors meld and intensify. Optional: embellish with fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, or diced avocado for a vibrant finish.

Notes

  • Layer crushed chips or tortillas carefully to create a crisp base that doesn’t become mushy during baking.
  • Swap chicken with ground turkey, shredded beef, or plant-based alternatives for dietary preferences or variety.
  • Adjust chili powder and cumin quantities to match personal heat tolerance without compromising overall flavor profile.
  • Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged for smoother melting and better texture during the final uncovered baking stage.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 7
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 700 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Fiber: 6 g
  • Protein: 24 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg