Chicken Chilaquiles Casserole

Chicken Chilaquiles Casserole is a comforting twist on traditional chilaquiles that layers crispy tortilla chips, tender shredded chicken, and rich, flavorful sauce baked to perfection.

If you’re tired of dry, overcooked chicken breasts or complicated Mexican recipes, this casserole simplifies meal prep while delivering bold, authentic flavors. At dishfoody.com, the focus is on helping home cooks bring delicious, easy dishes to their tables.

This article will delve into why this recipe works, choosing the right meat, ingredient preparation, step-by-step instructions, pro tips, tasty flavor variations, serving ideas, and FAQs.

Why This Chicken Chilaquiles Casserole Recipe Works

• Uses affordable, easy-to-find chicken and pantry staples
• Marinate or use pre-cooked chicken for juicy, tender results
• Perfect for weeknights or weekend gatherings with minimal fuss

Choosing the Right Meat for Chicken Chilaquiles Casserole

Best Cuts for This Recipe

Chicken thighs provide rich flavor and juiciness, while chicken breasts offer a leaner option.

Buying Tips

Select fresh chicken with a pink hue and firm texture, avoiding excess liquid.

Substitutions

Use shredded turkey, rotisserie chicken, or plant-based alternatives.

Ingredients & Prep for Chicken Chilaquiles Casserole

Meat Prep Essentials

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• Salt and pepper for seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Sauce Ingredients

• 2 cups red salsa (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Other Ingredients

• 4 cups tortilla chips (or homemade baked tortilla strips)
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese
• ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/2 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)
• 1/4 cup sliced green onions

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Chicken Chilaquiles Casserole

Pre-Cooking Prep

Pat chicken dry, season with salt and pepper. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Oil a 9×13-inch casserole dish.

Cooking Method

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, cook chicken until browned and cooked through (internal temp 165°F). Remove and shred chicken.
2. In a bowl, mix salsa, sour cream, chili powder, cumin, and garlic.
3. Layer half of tortilla chips in casserole dish. Top with half shredded chicken and half sauce. Repeat layers.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
5. Bake covered for 20 minutes, then uncovered for 10 more until bubbly and golden.
6. Garnish with cilantro, jalapeños, and green onions.

Doneness Check

Chicken is fully cooked; cheese melted and bubbly; casserole hot throughout.

Resting

Let the casserole rest 5 minutes before serving for flavor to meld.

Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken Chilaquiles Casserole

• Use homemade baked tortilla strips for freshness and control over salt.
• Marinate chicken with lime and spices for extra flavor.
• Cover during baking to keep moisture, uncover for golden top.

Flavor Variations for Chicken Chilaquiles Casserole

Spicy Twist

Add chipotle peppers or hot sauce to the sauce mix for smoky heat.

Keto/Paleo

Use low-carb tortilla alternatives and dairy-free sour cream.

Global Flavors

• Southwestern: Add black beans and corn.
• Mexican street food: Include cotija cheese and pickled onions.
• Tex-Mex: Combine with barbecue sauce and smoked paprika.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Chilaquiles Casserole

Pair with creamy mashed potatoes or grilled vegetables. Serve with cold cerveza or margaritas.

FAQs for Chicken Chilaquiles Casserole

• Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, thaw completely before cooking.
• How do I fix a dry casserole? Add extra sauce or a splash of chicken broth before baking.
• Is this recipe safe for pregnant women? Yes, when chicken is cooked thoroughly.

Conclusion

Chicken Chilaquiles Casserole is a flavorful, easy dish that combines classic Mexican elements into a convenient casserole perfect for any night. Easy to prepare and endlessly tasty, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again. Explore more recipes at dishfoody.com and try our Croissant Breakfast Casserole next!

Chicken Chilaquiles Casserole

Print Recipe

This Chicken Chilaquiles Casserole layers crispy tortilla chips, shredded chicken, salsa, and melty cheese for a comforting and easy Mexican-inspired bake!

• Author: ssam
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 25 mins
• Total Time: 40 mins
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups tortilla chips
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 2 cups red or green enchilada sauce
• 1 cup salsa
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/4 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: avocado slices, jalapeños, lime wedges

Instructions

• 1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
• 2. In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken with enchilada sauce, salsa, cumin, and onion.
• 3. Layer half of the tortilla chips in the baking dish.
• 4. Spoon half of the chicken mixture over the chips and sprinkle with cheese.
• 5. Repeat with remaining chips, chicken, and cheese.
• 6. Bake for 20–25 minutes until hot and bubbly.
• 7. Top with sour cream, cilantro, and your favorite garnishes before serving.

Notes

• You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Swap in green enchilada sauce for a tangier flavor.
• For extra crunch, add a handful of chips on top after baking.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 portion
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 830mg
• Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: chilaquiles casserole, chicken chilaquiles, easy Mexican bake, tortilla casserole