Description
Hearty Chicken Casserole promises comfort wrapped in golden, creamy layers of savory goodness. Familiar ingredients meld into a classic dinner that welcomes you home with warmth and satisfying flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 2 cups chopped cooked chicken
- 2 cups grated Cheddar cheese
Vegetables and Bread Base:
- 12 corn tortillas, torn into 1-inch pieces
- 1 medium green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 1 (10 ounces / 280 grams) can diced tomato and green chiles (such as Rotel)
Sauces and Seasonings:
- 1 (10.5 ounces / 298 grams) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (10.5 ounces / 298 grams) can cream of chicken soup
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 pinches garlic powder
- 2 pinches ground black pepper
Instructions
- Gently sauté diced bell peppers and chopped onions in a large skillet over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until vegetables become translucent and slightly softened, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add shredded or cubed cooked chicken to the vegetable mixture, incorporating all ingredients thoroughly and ensuring even distribution of flavors.
- Prepare a 13 x 9 inches (33 x 23 centimeters) baking dish by lightly coating with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Create the first layer by carefully arranging torn tortilla pieces across the bottom of the greased baking dish, covering approximately one-third of the surface area.
- Spread the chicken and vegetable mixture evenly over the tortilla layer, ensuring complete coverage and consistent distribution.
- Continue layering with remaining tortilla pieces and additional ingredients as desired, creating a structured and compact casserole.
- Place the assembled casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 30-35 minutes until the edges become golden brown and the center appears hot and bubbling.
- Remove from oven and allow the casserole to rest for 5-7 minutes before serving to help set the layers and enhance flavor melding.
Notes
- Prep ingredients ahead of time to streamline the cooking process and reduce last-minute stress.
- Ensure tortillas are fresh and not stale for the best texture and flavor in the casserole.
- Customize the dish by adding your favorite spices or swapping chicken for ground turkey or beef.
- Use a sharp knife to quickly chop vegetables and minimize preparation time.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a great make-ahead meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg