Looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying dinner option? This Fiesta Chicken Casserole delivers a burst of flavor in every bite, blending juicy shredded chicken, black beans, corn, and zesty Mexican spices, all topped with melted cheddar cheese and crunchy tortilla chips. Perfect for busy weeknights, this cheesy casserole is both hearty and comforting, and the best part? It’s ready in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn kernels
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup salsa (use mild or spicy based on your preference)
1 tsp cumin
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp chili powder
1 cup crushed tortilla chips
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, cumin, and chili powder until well combined.
Spread the chicken mixture evenly into a casserole dish.
Top the mixture with the shredded cheddar cheese and sprinkle the crushed tortilla chips on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, and serve.
Serving Tips:
Garnish for Extra Flavor: Elevate the presentation and flavor by adding toppings like chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream.
Pair with Sides: Serve alongside Mexican rice, a fresh green salad, or sautéed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Taco or Burrito Filling: Use leftovers as a filling for tacos, burritos, or quesadillas. Simply scoop the casserole mixture into tortillas for an easy next-day meal.
Serve with Dips: Complement this casserole with guacamole, salsa, or pico de gallo on the side for extra dipping fun.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Place leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven.
Reheating:
Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and reheat the casserole covered with foil for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Microwave individual portions on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring midway for even heating.
Prevent Sogginess: When reheating, add fresh crushed tortilla chips or bake uncovered during the last few minutes to restore crunchiness.
Related Recipes:
FAQs:
Can I make Fiesta Chicken Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Simply prepare the chicken mixture and layer it in the casserole dish, but wait to add the cheese and tortilla chips. Cover and refrigerate. When ready to bake, top with cheese and chips, then bake as directed.
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor. Simply shred the rotisserie chicken and use it in place of cooked chicken.
What can I substitute for black beans?
If you’re not a fan of black beans, you can substitute them with pinto beans, kidney beans, or even chickpeas. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or diced tomatoes for a different twist.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To lighten up the recipe, use reduced-fat cheese and swap out the tortilla chips for a whole grain or baked variety. You can also add more veggies like zucchini or spinach to increase the nutritional content without compromising on flavor.
Conclusion:
This Fiesta Chicken Casserole is the perfect blend of comfort and flavor, making it a go-to recipe for any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for family or preparing a meal for the week ahead, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation!
📖 Recipe:
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Fiesta Chicken Casserole
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Fiesta Chicken Casserole is a quick, flavorful, and cheesy dish made with shredded chicken, black beans, corn, and Mexican spices, topped with melted cheddar cheese and crunchy tortilla chips. Perfect for a family-friendly weeknight meal, this easy casserole comes together in just 30 minutes. Enjoy the zesty taste of this easy chicken casserole recipe that combines convenience with bold flavors.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn kernels
1 cup salsa
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp chili powder
1 cup crushed tortilla chips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, cumin, and chili powder.
- Spread the mixture evenly into a casserole dish.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese and sprinkle crushed tortilla chips on top.
- Bake for 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and the dish is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Customize this casserole by adding jalapeños for extra spice or swapping cheddar cheese for a Mexican blend.
Leftovers can be used as a taco or burrito filling.
If reheating, consider adding fresh tortilla chips for an extra crunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 350 kcal
Keywords: Fiesta Chicken Casserole, cheesy chicken casserole, Mexican chicken casserole, weeknight dinner, easy chicken recipe, black beans and corn casserole, 30-minute meals, gluten-free casserole
