Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe: Easy & Flavorful Dinner

Looking for a flavorful, one-dish meal that’s both satisfying and easy to make? This Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe brings together the zesty flavors of Mexican cuisine in a comforting, cheesy casserole.

Perfect for busy weeknights or a festive dinner with friends and family, this dish is loaded with seasoned chicken, gooey cheese, and a medley of vibrant ingredients that make every bite irresistible.

What Is Mexican Chicken Casserole?

Mexican Chicken Casserole is a layered dish that combines shredded chicken, creamy sauces, tortillas, beans, and plenty of melted cheese.

Infused with bold spices and topped with golden cheese, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for feeding a hungry family or serving at gatherings.

The layers of tortillas soak up the flavorful sauce, creating a rich, cohesive dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make Mexican Chicken Casserole

This recipe serves 6–8.

Main Ingredients:

• 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 can (14 oz) black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (divided)
• 8 large flour or corn tortillas
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Optional Additions:

• 1 diced bell pepper (for extra crunch)
• 1 cup cooked rice (to make it heartier)
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for added spice)
• ½ cup chopped cilantro (for garnish)
• 1 sliced jalapeño (for topping)

Substitutions and Variations

• Protein Options: Replace chicken with ground beef, turkey, or plant-based meat alternatives.
• Cheese Choices: Try Monterey Jack, cheddar, or queso fresco for a unique flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use corn tortillas and check that all canned ingredients are gluten-free.
• Low-Carb: Replace tortillas with thin slices of zucchini or cauliflower.
• Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and add more beans, vegetables, or tofu.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Mexican Chicken Casserole

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook the Chicken

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add shredded chicken and sprinkle with taco seasoning, stirring to coat evenly. Cook for 2–3 minutes, then remove from heat.

3. Prepare the Sauce

• In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, and corn. Stir until well mixed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Assemble the Casserole

• Spread a thin layer of the sauce mixture on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
• Layer 2 tortillas over the sauce, overlapping slightly. Add a layer of the seasoned chicken, followed by more sauce, and a sprinkle of cheese.
• Repeat the layers (tortillas, chicken, sauce, cheese) until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.

5. Bake

• Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Rest and Garnish

• Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped cilantro, jalapeño slices, or a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Seasoning: Make sure to season the chicken well to enhance the overall flavor.
• Uneven Layers: Spread each layer evenly for a well-balanced bite in every serving.
• Using Too Much Sauce: Avoid overloading the casserole with sauce to prevent it from becoming soggy.
• Burning the Cheese: Keep an eye on the casserole in the final minutes to prevent over-browning.

Serving and Presentation Tips

• Pair with Sides: Serve alongside Mexican rice, guacamole, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
• Family-Style: Place the baking dish on the table for a warm, inviting presentation.
• Plated: Portion individual servings with a garnish of cilantro and a lime wedge for an elevated look.

Expert Tips

• Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
• Reheat Leftovers: Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave until heated through.
• Freeze for Later: Wrap the unbaked casserole tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option for this recipe.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! Add diced jalapeños, hot salsa, or red pepper flakes for extra heat.

What’s the best way to prevent soggy tortillas?
Use fresh tortillas and avoid overloading each layer with sauce to keep the casserole from becoming too soft.

Conclusion

This Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe is a bold, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Combining creamy layers of seasoned chicken, tortillas, and melted cheese, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious.

Make it today and enjoy a comforting meal that’s full of Mexican-inspired flavors!