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
Scale
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.
