If you are looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that packs a punch of flavor and satisfying textures, this Nacho Chicken Casserole Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. With layers of tender shredded chicken, creamy sauce, spicy diced tomatoes, crispy tortilla chips, and gooey melted cheese, this casserole brings together the best of Tex-Mex in every bite. Simply irresistible and straightforward to prepare, it is perfect for everything from busy weeknights to casual get-togethers with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Nacho Chicken Casserole Recipe lies in its simplicity yet bold flavor profiles, thanks to a handful of staple ingredients that balance creaminess, spice, and crunch. Each component contributes perfectly to the dish’s richness, texture, and vibrant color, making it both delicious and visually inviting.
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken: This versatile protein forms the hearty base of the casserole and soaks up the spices beautifully.
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup: Adds a rich, creamy texture that binds the ingredients together.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Brings a tangy smoothness that brightens the dish.
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chiles, drained: Adds a subtle kick and juicy bursts of flavor throughout.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin: This warm spice infuses a subtle earthy note that’s signature to Tex-Mex dishes.
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder: Provides a mild heat that balances the creaminess.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances savory depth without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground for just the right amount of spice.
- 3 cups crushed tortilla chips: These add delightful crunch and that classic nacho flavor.
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese: A melty, flavorful topper that pulls the casserole together.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions: For a fresh, mildly sharp finish and vibrant color on top.
- Optional: sliced jalapeños, black olives, or chopped cilantro for garnish: Customize your casserole with bold garnishes to suit your taste.
How to Make Nacho Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish ensures your casserole will come out cleanly and maintain its layers without sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Chicken Filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, diced tomatoes with green chiles, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir these ingredients thoroughly until the mixture is uniform and every bite is infused with flavor.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole
Begin by spreading half of your crushed tortilla chips evenly on the bottom of the baking dish. Then, spoon half of the chicken mixture over the chips, distributing it gently but evenly. Sprinkle one cup of shredded cheese over this layer. Repeat the layers with the remaining chips, chicken mixture, and cheese to build that classic casserole texture and flavor.
Step 4: Bake Until Bubbling and Golden
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is thoroughly melted and has developed a light golden crust, and the casserole is bubbling at the edges.
Step 5: Let It Rest Before Serving
Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to sit for about 5 minutes. This resting time lets the layers set slightly for cleaner slices and allows the flavors to meld beautifully before you dig in.
How to Serve Nacho Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Top your Nacho Chicken Casserole Recipe with chopped green onions for a fresh crunch and vibrant color. If you like a bit of extra heat or texture, sliced jalapeños, black olives, or fresh cilantro are fantastic options that will brighten up each serving with a pop of flavor and personality.
Side Dishes
This hearty casserole pairs wonderfully with simple, fresh sides like a crisp green salad, Mexican rice, or black beans. These lighter sides provide contrast and balance, rounding out a satisfying meal that never feels too heavy.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or small cast-iron skillets for personal portions that are perfect for gatherings. You can also layer the casserole onto crispy tortilla chips on a platter for a shareable nacho-style presentation that’s sure to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Nacho Chicken Casserole Recipe leftovers keep beautifully covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Storing it properly helps preserve the flavors and textures, allowing you to enjoy this delicious dish again with minimal effort.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well if you want to prepare it in advance. Cool completely, then wrap tightly with foil or plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. It will keep up to 2 months, perfect for busy nights when you need a quick, comforting meal.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the casserole in a 350-degree oven for about 15 to 20 minutes or until heated through. This method keeps the crispy topping intact and ensures the cheese melts back to gooey perfection.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this casserole?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut that adds wonderful flavor and saves time.
Is this recipe spicy?
The base recipe has a mild to moderate spice level, but you can easily adjust the heat by using spicier diced tomatoes or adding jalapeños and chili powder to taste.
Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer, you can use cream of mushroom or make a homemade creamy sauce, but cream of chicken soup adds classic flavor and convenience here.
What kind of cheese works best?
A Mexican blend cheese with cheddar, Monterey Jack, and queso quesadilla melts well and provides a balanced flavor perfect for this recipe.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes! Just be sure to use gluten-free tortilla chips and verify that the canned soup you choose is gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Nacho Chicken Casserole Recipe, it will quickly become a regular in your meal rotation. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and so versatile that you can riff on it to suit your family’s tastes. Whether for a cozy night in or bringing to a potluck, this dish delivers comfort and joy with every cheesy, crispy, spicy bite. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!
Print
Nacho Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Description
This Nacho Chicken Casserole is a delicious and easy Tex-Mex inspired main course combining shredded chicken, creamy sauce, diced tomatoes with green chiles, and crunchy tortilla chips layered with melted Mexican blend cheese. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, this cheesy chicken bake offers a flavorful twist on classic nachos, finished with fresh green onions and optional garnishes like jalapeños, black olives, or cilantro.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chiles, drained
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Layers and Toppings
- 3 cups crushed tortilla chips
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Optional: sliced jalapeños, black olives, or chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Mix the chicken filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, drained diced tomatoes with green chiles, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Layer ingredients in the baking dish: Spread half of the crushed tortilla chips evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish. Spoon half of the chicken mixture over the chips and then sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded Mexican blend cheese.
- Repeat layering: Add the remaining crushed tortilla chips to the dish followed by the remaining chicken mixture. Finish by topping with the last 1 cup of shredded cheese, ensuring an even layer for melting.
- Bake the casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly, and the cheese has melted and turned slightly golden brown.
- Rest and garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes to set. Sprinkle with chopped green onions and any optional garnishes such as sliced jalapeños, black olives, or chopped cilantro before serving.
Notes
- For added heat, use spicy diced tomatoes or add jalapeño slices between layers.
- This casserole is great for using up leftover rotisserie chicken.
