The Pioneer Woman’s Spicy Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe

Comfort meets excitement in this hearty Mexican chicken casserole that will quickly become your new dinner favorite.

Layers of rich flavors dance across each delectable bite, promising a meal that satisfies deep hunger.

Creamy textures blend seamlessly with zesty spices, creating a dish that feels both familiar and adventurous.

Home cooks adore how simple ingredients come together to craft something truly memorable.

Simple pantry staples transform into a crowd-pleasing feast that sparks conversation around the dinner table.

Packed with robust seasonings and tender chicken, this recipe delivers warmth and satisfaction in every forkful.

Grab your apron and get ready to impress everyone with this irresistible culinary creation.

Why Pioneer Woman Mexican Chicken Casserole Shines

• Craft a Crowd-Pleaser: This Mexican chicken casserole brings everyone together with its bold, comforting flavors that appeal to both kids and adults at family gatherings.
• Conquer Meal Prep Challenges: Combine ingredients quickly in one bowl, layer effortlessly in a dish, and let the oven do the work – perfect for busy weeknight dinners or last-minute meal solutions.
• Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients, adjust spice levels, or add extra toppings like jalapeños or cilantro to make this recipe your own personal culinary creation.
• Celebrate Tex-Mex Magic: Enjoy a classic comfort dish that captures the rich, zesty essence of Mexican-inspired cuisine without complex cooking techniques.

Ingredients Included in Pioneer Woman Mexican Chicken Casserole

• Shredded Chicken: Tender and flavorful protein that serves as the core of this hearty casserole.

• Sour Cream, Cream of Chicken Soup, Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Creamy ingredients that add richness and help bind the casserole together.

• Salsa, Green Chilies, Cumin, Chili Powder, Diced Onion, Garlic: Spices and aromatics that provide a bold Mexican-inspired taste profile.

• Corn Tortillas: Traditional Mexican flatbread that creates layers and adds texture to the casserole.

How to Prepare Pioneer Woman Mexican Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). This will get your kitchen ready for some serious deliciousness.

Step 2: Create Flavor-Packed Chicken Mixture

• Shredded chicken
• Salsa
• Sour cream
• Cream of chicken soup
• Green chilies
• Cumin
• Chili powder
• Diced onion
• Minced garlic

Stir everything together until it’s well blended and looks super appetizing.

Step 3: Start Building Your Casserole Layers

Grease your casserole dish to prevent sticking.

Begin layering with corn tortillas as your base. Spread a generous portion of the chicken mixture over the tortillas, then sprinkle a hearty layer of shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 4: Continue Layering the Goodness

Repeat the tortilla-chicken-cheese layers. Make sure to end with a final blanket of cheese on top for that irresistible golden, melty finish.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pop the casserole into the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and has a gorgeous golden color.

Serve hot and enjoy your mouthwatering Mexican Chicken Casserole!

Steps to Improve Flavor in Pioneer Woman Mexican Chicken Casserole

• Swap corn tortillas with whole wheat or gluten-free options for dietary needs.
• Use rotisserie chicken for quicker preparation and added flavor depth.
• Reduce sodium by choosing low-sodium salsa and cream of chicken soup.
• Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for increased nutrition.
• Let the casserole rest 10 minutes after baking to help layers set and flavors meld together.

Flavor Boosters That Lift Pioneer Woman Mexican Chicken Casserole

• Vegetarian Swap: Replace chicken with black beans, roasted vegetables, or tofu for a plant-based version that maintains the casserole's hearty texture.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use corn tortillas (already gluten-free) and substitute cream of chicken soup with homemade cashew cream or gluten-free cream soup alternative.
• Spicy Southwest Remix: Add diced jalapeños, pepper jack cheese, and swap regular salsa for hot salsa to create a more intense, fiery flavor profile.
• Low-Carb Adaptation: Substitute tortillas with thinly sliced zucchini or cauliflower rice layers to reduce carbohydrate content while keeping the classic casserole essence.

Complementary Side Dishes for Pioneer Woman Mexican Chicken Casserole

• Fiesta Family Night: Serve this casserole with a vibrant side salad featuring crisp lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a zesty lime vinaigrette to balance the rich, creamy dish.
• Tex-Mex Gathering: Pair the casserole with warm, buttery cornbread and garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and a dollop of extra sour cream for added excitement.
• Game Day Feast: Create a build-your-own toppings bar with chopped green onions, diced avocado, crushed tortilla chips, and a quick salsa to let everyone customize their plate.
• Leftover Magic: Transform remaining casserole into lunch wraps by rolling the mixture into flour tortillas, then grilling for a crispy, portable meal that's perfect for on-the-go eating.

Best Storage Methods for Pioneer Woman Mexican Chicken Casserole

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
• Store the casserole in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, keeping it sealed tightly to preserve moisture and flavor.
• Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2-3 months.
• Thaw frozen casserole overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to ensure even temperature distribution.
• Reheat refrigerated or thawed casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent excessive drying.
• Microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure consistent heating and maintain texture.

FAQs

• What type of tortillas work best for this casserole?

Corn tortillas are recommended for this recipe. They provide an authentic Mexican flavor and hold up well during baking, creating a traditional texture that complements the chicken mixture perfectly.

• Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is an excellent time-saving option. It’s already cooked and seasoned, making it a convenient choice that adds great flavor and saves preparation time.

• Is this dish spicy?

The spice level is mild to medium. The combination of salsa, green chilies, cumin, and chili powder provides a gentle kick, but you can adjust the heat by choosing mild or hot salsa and adding more or less chili powder.

Delicious Pioneer Woman Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe

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4.7 from 32 reviews

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Hearty Mexican chicken casserole blends zesty flavors from south of the border with comforting American ingredients. Cheese, tortillas, and spicy chicken create a satisfying meal that home cooks love to share.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded chicken
• 6 corn tortillas
• 2 cups cheddar cheese
• 1 can (10 ounces) cream of chicken soup

Flavor Enhancers:

• 1 cup salsa
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 can (4 ounces) green chilies
• 1/2 onion
• 2 cloves garlic

Spices:

• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder

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Instructions

1. Combine shredded chicken with salsa, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, green chilies, cumin, chili powder, diced onion, and minced garlic in a mixing bowl, creating a robust and flavorful filling.
2. Prepare a casserole dish by lightly greasing the surface to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
3. Create the first layer by arranging corn tortillas across the bottom of the dish, covering the entire surface evenly.
4. Spread a generous portion of the prepared chicken mixture over the tortilla base, ensuring complete coverage.
5. Sprinkle a moderate layer of shredded cheddar cheese across the chicken mixture, adding rich, melty texture.
6. Repeat the layering process: tortillas, chicken mixture, and cheese, building depth and complexity of flavors.
7. Complete the final layer with an abundant topping of shredded cheddar cheese for a golden, crispy finish.
8. Position the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes.
9. Remove from oven when cheese is completely melted, edges are bubbly, and the top displays a beautiful golden-brown color.

Notes

• Choose rotisserie chicken for a quick, flavorful shortcut that saves time and adds extra richness to the casserole.
• Consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier protein-packed alternative that maintains creamy texture.
• Swap corn tortillas with gluten-free tortillas or cauliflower rice for celiac or low-carb diets without compromising taste.
• Add diced bell peppers or black beans for extra nutrition and a delicious vegetable boost that enhances the overall flavor profile.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 350 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 22 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg