If you’re craving a dish that brings together all the best flavors of nachos in a warm, comforting bake, then this (SUPER EASY) Chicken Nacho Casserole Recipe is about to become your new go-to. It’s a delightful layering of tender shredded chicken, creamy seasoned sauce, zesty diced tomatoes with green chilies, and plenty of melted cheese, all nestled between crispy tortilla chips. Not only is it incredibly simple to make, but it also delivers big on bold Tex-Mex flavor with minimal fuss, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings where everyone wants a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this (SUPER EASY) Chicken Nacho Casserole Recipe lies in its straightforward and accessible ingredients that combine to create a luscious balance of taste, texture, and color. Each component has a job—from the creamy sour cream that adds richness, to the canned diced tomatoes with green chilies that lend a subtle heat and freshness, to the crushed tortilla chips that provide a satisfying crunch on every bite.
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken: For tender, protein-packed goodness—rotisserie chicken works perfectly here and saves time.
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained): Adds vibrant color and a mild kick that brightens the casserole.
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup: The secret to that creamy, cozy texture binding everything together.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Gives a tangy richness, keeping the dish moist and flavorful.
- 1 teaspoon taco seasoning: Packs in warm spices and authentic Tex-Mex flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: For a subtle aromatic note that enhances the overall taste.
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (divided): Melts perfectly to create gooey, cheesy layers.
- 1 (11-ounce) bag tortilla chips (roughly crushed): Adds the much-needed crunch that nachos are famous for.
- Chopped cilantro and sliced jalapeños (optional): Fresh and spicy garnishes to customize your casserole.
How to Make (SUPER EASY) Chicken Nacho Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Dish
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C), and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This simple step ensures your casserole won’t stick and will come out clean and perfect every time, making cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced tomatoes with green chilies (with their juices), cream of chicken soup, sour cream, taco seasoning, garlic powder, and half of the shredded cheese. Stir everything together until it’s well blended and creamy—this mixture is what gives the casserole its rich, layered flavor.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole
Spread half of the crushed tortilla chips evenly on the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This crunchy foundation contrasts beautifully with the creamy chicken filling that forms the next layer. After that, spread your chicken mixture evenly over the chips, then top it all with the remaining crushed chips and the rest of the shredded cheese to create a golden, bubbly crust.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop your casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. What you’re waiting for is that lovely bubbling cheese and a warm, inviting aroma filling your kitchen. This step melts everything together and crisps up those top chips just right.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, garnish with chopped cilantro and sliced jalapeños if you like a little extra freshness and heat. This last touch adds a pop of color and flavor that really elevates your (SUPER EASY) Chicken Nacho Casserole Recipe.
How to Serve (SUPER EASY) Chicken Nacho Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of a handful of fresh chopped cilantro and thinly sliced jalapeños. They bring brightness and a subtle kick, balancing the richness of the casserole. For milder tastes, dollops of sour cream or a spoonful of creamy guacamole also make great finishing touches.
Side Dishes
Keep the sides simple and refreshing. A crisp green salad or a bowl of classic Mexican rice complements the casserole beautifully without overpowering it. Beans, either refried or black, can round out the meal and add a homestyle feel.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling fun? Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a personal touch, or layer it in a clear glass dish to show off the colorful layers. For parties, set up a nacho bar style spread by offering the casserole alongside bowls of salsa, guacamole, and sour cream so everyone can customize their portions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken nacho casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it an excellent make-ahead meal for busy evenings or lunch the next day. Just cover it tightly to preserve moisture and freshness.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole before baking. Assemble it as directed, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then pop it into the freezer. It’s best enjoyed within 2 months. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
Reheat leftover casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly again, about 15-20 minutes. To keep the top crispy, avoid microwaving if possible, but the microwave will work for a quicker option—just watch out that the chips don’t get soggy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! You can cook and shred fresh chicken breasts or thighs. Just make sure the chicken is fully cooked and cooled before mixing it into the casserole ingredients for best results.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken with hearty beans like black beans or pinto beans and add extra veggies such as corn and bell peppers to keep the texture and flavor profile exciting.
Can I make this casserole spicier?
Definitely. Add more jalapeños, use spicy diced tomatoes, or sprinkle cayenne pepper or chipotle powder into the chicken mixture for extra heat that suits your taste buds.
What can I serve this casserole with?
This casserole pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a fresh green salad, Mexican rice, or even a light cucumber and tomato salad to balance the rich flavors.
How long does this casserole last in the fridge?
When stored properly in an airtight container, the casserole should stay delicious for 3 to 4 days. Always check for freshness before reheating to ensure it’s still good to eat.
Final Thoughts
The (SUPER EASY) Chicken Nacho Casserole Recipe truly shines as a quick, satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy days or casual get-togethers. It delivers comfort food vibes with simple ingredients and steps that anyone can follow, plus endless opportunities to tweak it to your own taste. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a beloved favorite in your home, just like it did in mine!
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(SUPER EASY) Chicken Nacho Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Description
This (SUPER EASY) Chicken Nacho Casserole is a delicious and comforting Tex-Mex dish that combines shredded chicken, creamy soup, zesty tomatoes with green chilies, and a generous amount of cheese layered with crunchy tortilla chips. Baked to bubbly perfection, it makes a perfect main course for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gathering. Garnished with fresh cilantro and jalapeños, this casserole offers a flavorful twist on classic nachos in a convenient casserole form.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained)
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (divided)
Additional
- 1 (11-ounce) bag tortilla chips (roughly crushed)
- Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
- Sliced jalapeños for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix Chicken Filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, undrained diced tomatoes with green chilies, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, taco seasoning, garlic powder, and 1 cup of shredded Mexican blend cheese. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, creating a creamy and flavorful mixture.
- Layer Chips and Chicken Mixture: Spread half of the roughly crushed tortilla chips evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Carefully spoon the chicken mixture over the chip layer, spreading it out evenly to cover the chips.
- Top with Remaining Chips and Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining crushed tortilla chips over the chicken mixture, then top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded Mexican blend cheese to create a cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the cheese on top has melted and started to turn golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped cilantro and sliced jalapeños if desired. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the melded flavors and textures.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and convenient option that adds great flavor.
- Add black beans or corn to the chicken mixture for extra flavor, texture, and nutrition.
- Serve the casserole with salsa, guacamole, or an extra dollop of sour cream for added moisture and flavor contrast.
