mexican chicken casserole
Try this easy, delicious Mexican Chicken Casserole recipe for a hearty, flavorful meal! Perfect for busy nights and customizable to your taste!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken – Rotisserie chicken works perfectly for a quick shortcut.
- 1 cup cooked rice – White or brown rice both work well; use your favorite!
- 1 can 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed – Adds a protein-packed and creamy texture.
- 1 can 15 oz corn, drained – Sweet corn kernels bring a touch of sweetness and crunch.
- 1 can 10 oz diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel) – For that signature tangy, slightly spicy kick.
- 1 cup salsa – Use mild medium, or spicy depending on your heat preference.
- 1 cup shredded cheese – Cheddar Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend work wonderfully.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder – For a warm smoky flavor.
- 1 teaspoon cumin – Adds an earthy depth to the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Adjust to your liking.
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro – For a burst of freshness.
- 1 jalapeño diced – Perfect for those who love a bit of extra heat.
- 1/2 cup sour cream – Fold it in for a creamier casserole.
For Topping:
- 1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips – Adds a crunchy irresistible layer on top.
- Extra shredded cheese – Because more cheese is always better!
- Fresh avocado slices or guacamole – For a creamy rich finishing touch.
Instructions
Preheat Your Oven
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). A well-preheated oven ensures your casserole bakes evenly and gets that golden, crispy top everyone loves.
Prepare the Chicken
- If you’re using cooked chicken, shred it into bite-sized pieces. You can easily use leftover chicken or cook fresh chicken breasts for this. Season it with a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and a touch of cumin to bring out the bold flavors.
- Tip: For a quicker option, you can use a rotisserie chicken, which saves time and still delivers great taste.
Make the Flavorful Base
- In a large mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken with a can of diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and a generous amount of salsa. Stir everything together, adding about a cup of sour cream for creaminess and a kick of tangy flavor.
Layer the Casserole
- Lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish. Start by layering the bottom with a portion of tortilla chips or crushed tortillas to create a crunchy base. Then, spread a layer of your chicken mixture on top. Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used up.
Add the Cheese
- The next step is crucial—adding cheese! Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheese (cheddar or a Mexican blend) over the top of the casserole. This will melt into a rich, cheesy crust that adds a delightful texture.
Bake and Serve
- Cover your casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Garnish and Enjoy
- Once your casserole is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven. Garnish with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and a dollop of sour cream to elevate the flavors.
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 650mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 28g
- Vitamin A: 15%
- Vitamin C: 20%
- Calcium: 20%
- Iron: 10%