Description
A flavorful and hearty Mexican Chicken Casserole combining layers of crushed tortilla chips, tender chicken, black beans, creamy chicken soup, tomatoes, and a blend of melted cheeses, baked to bubbly perfection and garnished with fresh cilantro and jalapeños for a satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups crushed tortilla chips (or Dorito Nacho Cheese chips, divided)
- 15 oz. black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 2 cups chopped cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 21 oz. cream of chicken soup (2 (10.5 oz) cans, DO NOT add any water or milk)
- 10 oz. can Rotel tomatoes (undrained)
- 2 cups shredded jack cheese
- 2 cups shredded medium cheddar cheese
Garnish
- 1 tomato (diced)
- 1 bunch cilantro (rinsed and chopped)
- Jalapeños (optional, sliced)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 13x9 inch casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray to ensure easy removal of the casserole later.
- Add Crushed Chips Base: Lightly crush the tortilla chips and sprinkle about 1 cup evenly across the bottom of the prepared casserole dish to create a crunchy base layer.
- Layer Chicken and Beans: Spread the chopped cooked chicken evenly over the crushed chips, then layer the drained and rinsed black beans on top of the chicken, distributing evenly.
- Mix and Spread Soup: Stir the ground cumin into the cream of chicken soup without adding any water or milk. Spread this soup mixture evenly over the chicken and black bean layers using a spatula. Then, spoon the undrained canned Rotel tomatoes over the soup layer, distributing them evenly.
- Add Cheese and Top Chips: Sprinkle the shredded jack cheese and shredded medium cheddar cheese evenly over the tomato layer. Finish by topping the casserole with the remaining 2 cups of crushed tortilla chips to add extra crunch.
- Bake Casserole: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese is fully melted and slightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and garnish with chopped cilantro and diced fresh tomato. Serve immediately with slices of fresh jalapeño for those who desire a spicy kick.
Notes
- Do not add water or milk to the cream of chicken soup; it should be used undiluted for the best texture.
- Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for this recipe but you can use any cooked chicken.
- The type of tortilla chips can be adjusted to your preference, Dorito Nacho Cheese chips add extra flavor.
- Optional jalapeños can be omitted or substituted with other chili peppers depending on your heat tolerance.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; increase bake time slightly if baking from cold.
