When you need a hearty dinner that’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to satisfy a crowd, this Mexican Chicken Casserole delivers every time. Using cooked chicken and pantry staples keeps prep simple, while bold Mexican-inspired flavors make it feel special. It’s a great option for busy weeknights, potlucks, or make-ahead meals.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Crushed tortilla chips or Doritos | 3 cups, divided |
| Black beans, drained and rinsed | 15 oz |
| Cooked chicken, chopped | 2 cups |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon |
| Cream of chicken soup | 21 oz (2 cans) |
| Rotel tomatoes, undrained | 10 oz |
| Monterey Jack cheese, shredded | 2 cups |
| Medium cheddar cheese, shredded | 2 cups |
| Tomato, diced | 1 |
| Fresh cilantro, chopped | 1 bunch |
| Jalapeños | Optional |
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
Easy Mexican chicken casserole made with tortilla chips, chicken, black beans, Rotel, and melted cheese.
Ingredients
3 cups crushed tortilla chips, divided
15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups cooked chicken, chopped
1 tsp ground cumin
21 oz cream of chicken soup
10 oz Rotel tomatoes, undrained
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
2 cups shredded medium cheddar cheese
1 tomato, diced
1 bunch cilantro, chopped
Jalapeños, optional
Instructions
1. Layer crushed chips in baking dish.
2. Add chicken and black beans.
3. Spread soup mixed with cumin and top with Rotel.
4. Add cheeses and remaining chips.
5. Bake until hot and bubbly.
6. Garnish and serve.
Notes
Do not dilute soup.
Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Great for feeding a crowd.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Step-by-Step Instructions and Helpful Tips
Step 1
Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 13×9-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
Helpful tip: Greasing well prevents sticking and makes serving easier.
Step 2
Lightly crush the tortilla chips and sprinkle about 1 cup evenly over the bottom of the baking dish.
Helpful tip: Don’t crush them too finely to keep some texture.
Step 3
Layer the chopped cooked chicken and black beans evenly over the crushed chips.
Helpful tip: Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor.
Step 4
Stir the ground cumin into the cream of chicken soup without adding any water or milk. Spread the soup mixture evenly over the chicken and beans, then spoon the undrained Rotel tomatoes on top.
Helpful tip: Keeping the soup concentrated ensures a creamy casserole.
Step 5
Sprinkle both cheeses evenly over the tomato layer, then top with the remaining crushed tortilla chips.
Helpful tip: Even layering helps the casserole bake uniformly.
Step 6
Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until hot and bubbly and the cheese is fully melted.
Helpful tip: The edges should be gently bubbling when it’s ready.
Step 7
Remove from the oven and garnish with diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, and sliced jalapeños if desired. Serve immediately.
Helpful tip: Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing for cleaner portions.
Conclusion
This Mexican Chicken Casserole is a reliable, crowd-pleasing dinner that combines bold flavor with minimal effort. With just a handful of ingredients and simple layering, it’s an easy meal you’ll want to make again and again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it without the top chips, refrigerate, then add chips and bake when ready.
Can I use Doritos instead of tortilla chips?
Yes, Nacho Cheese Doritos add extra flavor.
Is this freezer-friendly?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers freeze well.
Can I add more heat?
Add diced green chiles or extra jalapeños.