What is comfort food? What are some of the best recipes for Fiesta Chicken Casserole? I’ve been making this dish for years, and it’s always a hit, especially on those nights when I have to cook all night. I’m starving and I need something quick and satisfying. Think of it as a cross between chicken enchiladas and creamy pasta bake, but way easier to throw together. What are some of the best weeknight scares?
What is Fiesta Chicken Casserole?
Fiesta Chicken Casserole is basically the party in your mouth that everyone needs, especially on a Sunday. It’s a layered dish featuring shredded chicken, cream of mushroom soup, and crispy onion. (Don’t knock it until you try it! ) ), diced tomatoes and green chilies, corn, black beans, and plenty of cheese. Think of it as a deconstructed enchilada, but instead of rolling everything up, you layer it in an airtight container. How do I get a baking dish and let the oven do its magic? It’s essentially a warm, comforting hug in casserole dish, and it’s extremely customizable to your liking. What is your own taste?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
How do I start with this Fiesta Chicken Casserole? Is it a savory chicken dish? What is the sweetness of corn, and all that melted cheese pulling everything together? Is it incredibly easy to make? I’m talking about minimal prep time and mostly hands-off cooking. What I love most about this is that it is a total lifesaver on those busy weeknights. It’s also super cost-efficient. What are some good ways to use rotisserie chicken to save time? Is this one really worth it?
What are some of the best recipes for a vegetarian dish? Use different cheeses, add extra veggies, or adjust the spice level to your liking. What are some similar recipes to my Chicken Tortilla Soup? Chicken Chili – they’re both in the same flavor family and just as satisfying. I love the Fiesta Chicken Casserole recipe because it’s so easy to make. Everyone loves it. Even my picky eaters gobble it up!
How do I make a Fiesta Chicken Casserole?
Quick Overview
How easy is it to make a Fiesta Chicken Casserole? How do you mix the chicken with the creamy sauce, layer it in a baking dish and serve with other ingredients? Is it safe to make a sandwich and top with cheese, and bake until golden brown. What is the best thing about it? No fancy techniques or complicated steps. What is a dump-and-bake recipe? Is there a way to mess this one up?
Ingredients
For the Main Casserole: For a
* 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver!)
* 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup. * Can be used in a salad.
* 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained (like Rotel)
* 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
* 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained. *
* 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
* 1 teaspoon chili powder
* 1/2 teaspoon cumin
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheese Topping:
* 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a Mexican blend) * 1 cup feta cheese.
How do I follow step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. I always use a little cooking spray to make sure nothing sticks. Is it easy to clean up after yourself?
Step 2: Mix Chicken Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes and green onions. Set aside. Chili, corn, black beans, sour cream, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated in the sauce. Where do all the spices come from, so don’t skimp on the flavor!
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
What is the best way to spread the chicken mixture in a baking dish? Top with shredded cheddar cheese, making sure to cover the entire surface. What makes cheese so delicious?
Step 4: Bake
If the cheese is melted and bubbly in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until it is no longer visible. Remove from the oven and let cool. What is a casserole? I always check the cheese around 25 minutes to make sure it isn’t getting too brown. You want it perfectly golden and gooey!
Step 5: Cool Slightly & Serve
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help it set up a bit and prevent it from being too runny. Cut into squares and serve hot.
What should I serve it with?
What are some good side dishes to serve with this Fiesta Chicken Casserole? What a feast. What are some of my favorite serving suggestions?
For a casual weeknight dinner:What is a good side salad to serve with an olive oil? What’s a good side dish to serve with tortilla chips and salsa?
For a potluck or gathering:What are some good ways to serve a casserole at st. mary’s? Is Mexican rice a good substitute for refried beans? If you are looking for something green, a simple Mexican street corn salad would also complement it.
For a Game Day Party: What are some ideas?What is a good casserole for game day? Serve with sour cream, guacamole, pico de gallo, and jalapeos. What is it like to have your guests cheer on your team?
Growing up, my mom would always serve this with a dollop of sour cream and chopped cilantro. What is the best way to garnish a dish? I’ve carried on that tradition with my own family, and it’s always a hit. Is it important to mention that my kids actually ask for this all the time and love that it’s cheesy?
How do I make a Fiesta Chicken Casserole?
How do I make a Fiesta Chicken Casserole? What are the top tips for a successful career?
Why use high quality chicken?The better the chicken, the better a casserole. I like rotisserie chicken because it’s already cooked and seasoned, but you can also use other types of chicken. What are some leftover grilled or baked chicken?
Don’t skip the spices: Is it safeWhat are the ingredients in this recipe? Chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder. Don’t be afraid to adjust the amounts to your liking. If you like it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
What is the best way to use fresh or frozen corn? I usually use frozen corn because it’s convenient, but fresh corn kernels would also work well. If you’re using fresh corn, make sure to cook it first.
Add extra Veggies: Add Feel free to add other veggies to the casserole, such as diced bell peppers, onions, or zucchini. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly.
Use a Good Quality Cheese: The cheese is what makes this casserole extra delicious, so don’t skimp on it. I prefer using a sharp cheddar or a Mexican blend, but you can use any cheese you like.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Make sure to bake the casserole until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through. If the cheese starts to get too brown, you can cover the dish with foil for the last few minutes of baking.
I learned the hard way that overbaking this casserole can dry it out. So, keep a close eye on it and remove it from the oven as soon as the cheese is melted and bubbly. Also, I always let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and prevents it from being too runny. And one time, I tried using low-fat cream of mushroom soup, and it just wasn’t the same. Trust me, stick with the regular stuff for the best flavor.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), you can store them in the refrigerator or freezer. Here’s how:
Refrigerator Storage: Let the casserole cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer Instructions: Let the casserole cool completely before wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil. Store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating Tips: You can reheat the casserole in the oven or microwave. To reheat it in the oven, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. To reheat it in the microwave, microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. But honestly, I think it tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had a chance to meld together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This Fiesta Chicken Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a hug in a dish, a family favorite, and a weeknight lifesaver. It’s incredibly easy to make, packed with flavor, and always a crowd-pleaser. If you’re looking for a simple, satisfying meal that everyone will love, look no further. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other casserole recipes for more easy and delicious dinner ideas. I really do hope that you’ll try it out tonight. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Don’t forget to leave a comment and rating below, and share your own variations of this recipe. I love seeing what you come up with! Happy baking!
Fiesta Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs cooked chicken breast
- 1 cup salsa
- 0.5 cup sour cream
- 1 can corn drained
- 1 can black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup tortilla chips crushed
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, salsa, sour cream, corn, and black beans.
- Pour mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Top with shredded cheese and crushed tortilla chips.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and cheese is melted and bubbly.
