Shredded Chicken Mexican Casserole

Name: Shredded Chicken Mexican Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 3 cups shredded cooked chicken; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained; 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); 1 tablespoon taco seasoning; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup salsa; Tortilla chips (optional, for topping); Fresh cilantro, chopped; Sour cream; Sliced jalapeños

Highlighted under: Worldly Flavors

I absolutely love making this Shredded Chicken Mexican Casserole for a cozy family dinner. It’s a dish that brings everyone together with its vibrant flavors and comforting texture. The combination of tender, shredded chicken, zesty spices, and melted cheese creates a symphony of taste that makes each bite incredibly satisfying. Plus, preparing it is a breeze, which means more time to enjoy with my loved ones. Trust me, once you try this casserole, you'll want to make it again and again!

Created by

Cassidy Moore

Last updated on 2026-02-27T18:45:35.735Z

When I first attempted this casserole, I wanted to capture the essence of traditional Mexican flavors while keeping it simple. I found that using rotisserie chicken not only saved me time but also lent a rich depth to the dish. The key is in layering flavors; I make sure to evenly distribute the spices for a consistent taste throughout.

Additionally, I love adding a hint of lime juice before serving. It brightens up the casserole and balances the richness, making it even more enjoyable. Each time I serve this, it reminds me of family gatherings filled with laughter and good food.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich layers of flavor with every bite
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Cheesy goodness that satisfies everyone at the table

Understanding Your Ingredients

The key to a flavorful Shredded Chicken Mexican Casserole lies in the quality of your ingredients. Using freshly cooked chicken makes a significant difference; if you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic substitute that offers a rich flavor with minimal effort. The canned tomatoes with green chilies introduce a zesty heat that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients, so don't skip them. Just ensure you drain the beans and corn thoroughly to prevent a watery casserole, which can dilute the delightful flavors.

When it comes to cheese, a blend of cheddar and a Mexican cheese mix provides the best of both worlds; the cheddar adds sharpness while the Mexican blend melts beautifully for a gooey texture. If you're looking for lactose-free options, consider using dairy alternatives like cashew cheese or dairy-free cream cheese to maintain the creaminess of the dish.

Layering and Baking Techniques

Layering is crucial in achieving the right taste and texture in this casserole. When you spread the filling evenly in the baking dish, ensure that each ingredient is well-distributed. This will help create a balanced flavor profile, ensuring each bite combines the creamy cheese with the zesty salsa and the tender chicken. If you opt to include tortilla chips as a topping, add them in the last 10 minutes of baking to achieve a delightful crunch without burning them.

Baking at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes is key for achieving bubbly cheese without overcooking the chicken. Keep an eye on the casserole during the final 10 minutes. If the cheese starts browning too quickly, loosely cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent burning while allowing the center to warm thoroughly.

Ingredients

For the casserole

3 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
1 tablespoon taco seasoning
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup salsa
Tortilla chips (optional, for topping)

For garnish

Fresh cilantro, chopped
Sour cream
Sliced jalapeños

Mix and match ingredients to suit your taste!

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare the casserole.

Combine the ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, 1 cup of shredded cheese, taco seasoning, cumin, salt, pepper, and salsa. Mix until everything is well incorporated.

Layer the casserole

Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly, then top with the remaining cheese.

Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Serve and enjoy

Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, and jalapeños if desired.

Enjoy this comforting dish with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, serve with tortilla chips on the side. You can also customize the toppings with your favorite ingredients like avocado or pico de gallo.

Make-Ahead Tips

This casserole is an excellent make-ahead option. You can prepare it up to the baking stage, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before popping it in the oven. If you prefer to freeze it, prepare the casserole as instructed, then cover tightly and freeze for up to three months. Bake from frozen, increasing the baking time to roughly 50–60 minutes.

If you’d like to customize your casserole for the week ahead, consider varying the beans or adding in finely chopped bell peppers and onions. Both additions bring in extra nutrients and flavors. Just be cautious of the moisture from added veggies; you might want to sauté them first to prevent excess liquid.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh salad or guacamole for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. For those who love extra spice, consider serving it with a drizzle of hot sauce or alongside sliced jalapeños. I always keep a bowl of sour cream handy; the creaminess provides a great balance to the casserole's zestiness and heat.

For a fun twist on serving, try using individual ramekins instead of a large baking dish. This approach not only makes for a delightful presentation but also allows for portion control. You can top each individual ramekin with extra cheese and bake them to bubbly perfection, creating a fun and interactive dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. Bake it right before serving.

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Absolutely! Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before shredding and adding to the casserole.

→ What can I substitute for black beans?

You can use pinto beans or even kidney beans based on your preference.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free tortilla chips and salsa, the casserole is gluten-free.