This Classic Mexican Chicken Casserole is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. Made with tender chicken, zesty spices, and a creamy, cheesy topping, it’s a simple recipe that delivers big on taste. Serve it with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a meal everyone will love.
| Servings | Total |
| 6 | 50mins |
History of Mexican Chicken Casserole
Mexican-inspired casseroles became popular in the United States as an easy way to incorporate bold Mexican flavors into one convenient dish. Combining staples like chicken, beans, and cheese with vibrant spices, these casseroles offer a fusion of textures and flavors, making them a favorite for families.
Why Mexican Chicken Casserole?
- Packed with Flavor: Layers of chicken, cheese, and bold spices.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and quick assembly.
- Versatile: Great for leftovers or meal prep.
- Crowd-Pleaser: A hit at potlucks and gatherings.
What is Mexican Chicken Casserole Made of?
This casserole typically includes:
- Shredded chicken
- Tortilla chips or tortillas
- A creamy base made with sour cream or cream cheese
- Black beans or pinto beans
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel)
- Shredded Mexican cheese blend
- Taco seasoning or spices like cumin, paprika, and chili powder
What to Have with Mexican Chicken Casserole
Serve this dish with:
- A side of Mexican rice or cilantro-lime rice
- Fresh guacamole or sliced avocado
- A crisp salad with lime dressing
- Tortilla chips and salsa
Is Mexican Chicken Casserole Healthy?
This dish can be made healthier by using low-fat cheese, light sour cream, and whole-grain tortillas. Adding more vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, can also increase the nutritional value while keeping the flavor intact.
Kitchen Equipment
- Large baking dish (9×13 recommended)
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or spoon for mixing
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup sour cream or cream cheese
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade taco spice blend)
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 2 cups crushed tortilla chips or 6 small tortillas, cut into strips
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped green onions, 1/4 cup sliced black olives
Directions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream (or cream cheese), diced tomatoes with green chilies, taco seasoning, and black beans. Mix well.
- Assemble Layers: In a greased baking dish, layer half of the tortilla chips (or tortilla strips) at the bottom. Spread half of the shredded chicken and sauce mixture on top. Sprinkle with 1 cup of cheese. Repeat layers.
- Add Toppings: Finish with a layer of crushed tortilla chips and the remaining cheese.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with green onions or black olives if desired.
Tips
- Swap black beans for pinto beans or refried beans for a creamier texture.
- For extra heat, add diced jalapeños to the sauce or garnish with hot sauce.
- If using tortillas, lightly toast them first for better texture.
- Make it vegetarian by skipping the chicken and adding more beans or veggies.
Conclusion
This Classic Mexican Chicken Casserole is an easy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and bold flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Serve it with your favorite sides for a complete, satisfying meal!
MORE RECIPES
Classic Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe
Equipment
- Large baking dish (9×13 recommended)
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or spoon for mixing
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup sour cream or cream cheese
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade taco spice blend)
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 2 cups crushed tortilla chips or 6 small tortillas, cut into strips
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped green onions, 1/4 cup sliced black olives
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream (or cream cheese), diced tomatoes with green chilies, taco seasoning, and black beans. Mix well.
- In a greased baking dish, layer half of the tortilla chips (or tortilla strips) at the bottom. Spread half of the shredded chicken and sauce mixture on top. Sprinkle with 1 cup of cheese. Repeat layers.
- Finish with a layer of crushed tortilla chips and the remaining cheese.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with green onions or black olives if desired.