Lunch & Dinner

Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe – Sweet Mama’s Kitchen

Name: Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe – Sweet Mama’s Kitchen
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 10
Ingredients: 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 cup diced red onion; 15 oz. black beans, thoroughly drained and rinsed; 10 oz. can of undrained Rotel diced tomatoes; 2 cups diced cooked chicken; 3 cups crushed tortilla chips or Nacho Cheese Doritos; 21 oz. cream of chicken soup; 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 tomato, diced; 1 bunch fresh cilantro, rinsed and chopped; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Optional: sliced jalapeños

Susan Roberts March 19, 2025

Servings: 10 Total Time: 35 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Before we dive into the deliciousness of Mexican Chicken Casserole, let’s chat about what to serve it with. This dish is hearty and flavorful, so it deserves a sidekick that complements its zest. A cool, refreshing salad works wonders.

Think a simple green salad tossed with lime vinaigrette. The acidity cuts the richness of the casserole. Or, consider some sizzling corn on the cob—easy to prepare and perfect for summer evenings.

For drinks, iced tea is a classic choice. You could also whip up a homemade margarita for a real fiesta vibe! Feel free to get creative; the goal is to elevate that casserole to new heights.

Why This Mexican Chicken Casserole is a Game-Changer

Let me share why this recipe holds a special place in my kitchen. Firstly, it’s incredibly straightforward. In less than an hour, you can whip up a meal that pleases both kids and adults.

I love how it combines familiar ingredients into something comforting, yet exciting. The richness of the cheese, the smokiness from paprika, and the crunch from the tortilla chips create a beautiful blend. Plus, it’s a great way to use leftover chicken. Who doesn’t appreciate a meal that saves time and reduces waste?

My Relationship with the Ingredients

Every ingredient tells a story in this casserole. Take the black beans, for instance. They bring protein and fiber, making the dish a bit heartier. I always have a good stash of black beans in my pantry. They are my go-to ingredient when I need to boost nutrition without sacrificing flavor.

The rotisserie chicken? Well, it’s a miracle worker. I often grab one from the grocery store on busy days. It shaves off cooking time and adds depth. The cream of chicken soup offers creaminess and saves the hassle of making a sauce from scratch. I’ve found that it perfectly binds everything together.

Let’s not forget the spices! Cumin adds warmth, while smoked paprika gives that fantastic depth. Incidentally, cilantro adds a pop of freshness that rounds it all off.

Now, without further ado, let’s talk about the ingredients you’ll need.

Ingredients List

To craft this delightful casserole, you will need:

1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ cup diced red onion
15 oz. black beans, thoroughly drained and rinsed
10 oz. can of undrained Rotel diced tomatoes
2 cups diced cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works beautifully)
3 cups crushed tortilla chips or Nacho Cheese Doritos
21 oz. cream of chicken soup (two 10 ½ oz. cans; refrain from adding water or milk)
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 tomato, diced
1 bunch fresh cilantro, rinsed and chopped
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Optional: sliced jalapeños

Mexican Chicken Casserole Copycat Recipe

How to Make Mexican Chicken Casserole

Making this casserole is as simple as pie. So let’s break it down step by step!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This allows your casserole to bake evenly, giving you that perfect bubbly goodness.

Step 2: Prepare Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the diced red onion, black beans, undrained Rotel, diced chicken, and the creamy soup. Mix gently until well-combined. The colorful ingredients create a feast for the eyes!

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

In a baking dish, start layering. First, place one layer of crushed tortilla chips or Doritos at the bottom. Then, spoon half of your chicken mixture over the chips.

Step 4: Next Layer of Cheese

Time for some cheese magic! Sprinkle 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese and 1 cup of sharp cheddar over that chicken mixture.

Step 5: Repeat Layers

Repeat the layering process with the remaining chips, followed by the chicken mixture and top it off with the rest of the cheese.

Step 6: Add Fresh Ingredients

Finally, dot the top with diced tomato and chopped cilantro. These fresh ingredients make it extra appealing!

Step 7: Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and pop it into the oven. Bake for about 25 minutes. This step helps the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 8: Finish Baking

After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and starting to brown. Your kitchen will smell absolutely divine!

Step 9: Serve

Take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps everything set a bit, making serving easier.

Recipe Notes: Understanding Each Ingredient

Ground Cumin: This spice brings warmth and a hint of earthiness. It’s a staple in many Mexican dishes, amplifying the flavor profile.
Red Onion: Diced, it contributes a bit of sharpness but sweetens beautifully when cooked. It’s an essential building block for flavor.
Black Beans: Beyond protein, they’re rich in antioxidants and minerals. They help keep you full and satisfied.
Rotel Tomatoes: These diced tomatoes with green chilies add a zesty kick. They’re versatile and can be used in various recipes.
Cooked Chicken: Using rotisserie chicken not only saves time but ensures a deeper flavor since it’s marinated and seasoned.
Tortilla Chips: They add crunch and flavor. If you prefer, use plain chips and add extra spices for more control over the flavor.
Cream of Chicken Soup: It makes the casserole creamy and delicious without added work. A great shortcut in the kitchen!
Monterey Jack Cheese: This is all about the melt. It creates that gooey texture we love in casseroles.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Offers a more robust cheese flavor. If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to increase its quantity!
Fresh Tomato: Adds color and freshness. A lovely counterpoint to the richness of the dish.
Cilantro: This herb adds a burst of color and flavor, brightening each bite.
Smoked Paprika: A wonderful addition that brings a slightly sweet and smoky taste to your casserole.

Recipe Variations

Want to shake things up? Here’s how you can customize this dish:

Spicy Kick: Add more jalapeños or opt for spicy black beans for a punch.
Vegetarian Delight: Skip the chicken and replace it with more beans or sautéed vegetables like zucchini or corn.
Cheese Lovers’ Version: Load up on all the cheeses! Consider adding some cream cheese for an extra creamy texture.
Southwestern Twist: Include corn and black olives for a Southwest feel.
Different Meats: Try using shredded pork or beef instead of chicken for a different flavor experience.
Gluten-Free Option: Ensure your tortilla chips are gluten-free and use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup.

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks! This Mexican Chicken Casserole is like a warm hug on a plate. The combination of ingredients creates a dish that’s not just filling, but also deeply satisfying.

If you’re looking for a recipe that resonates with family gatherings or busy weeknights, this is your answer. Whether you’re a novice cook or a kitchen whiz, I hope this recipe inspires you to create something special. Gather your ingredients and make memories. Happy cooking!

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Print Recipe

Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe – Sweet Mama’s Kitchen

Author: Susan Roberts Cuisine: American Courses: Lunch & Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 5 mins Cook Time 30 mins Total Time 35 mins

Servings: 10 Calories: 334 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Think a simple green salad tossed with lime vinaigrette. The acidity cuts the richness of the casserole. Or, consider some sizzling corn on the cob—easy to prepare and perfect for summer evenings.