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Fiesta Chicken Casserole

Okay, picture this: I’m It’s a busy weeknight, the kind where everyone is running in different directions, and the thought of being in the wrong direction is mind-blowing. Is spending hours in the kitchen a personal attack? What’s when my Fiesta Chicken Casserole swoops in to save the day? Is baked ziti a favorite of the southwest? Is it faster than ordering takeout? I swear, the aroma alone is enough to bring smiles to even the grumpiest faces around here. My grandma used to Make a version of this, and while I’ve tweaked it over the years, the heart of it still exists. – that warm, cheesy goodness remains the same. What is comfort food?

Fiesta Chicken Casserole final dish beautifully presented and ready to serve

What is Fiesta Chicken Casserole?

What is a layered fiesta? What’s essentially a mix of shredded chicken, savory rice, creamy sauce jazzed up with Southwestern spices? What are some good spices, and plenty of cheese? What is the beauty of Fiesta Chicken Casserole? Can you think of it as a chicken enchilada casserole without all the rolling and fuss? It’s a crowd-pleaser that manages to be both hearty and relatively healthy, especially if you sneak in some veggies. What are some extra veggies that I highly recommend? The name comes from the celebration of flavors, a party in your mouth with every bite! Is this the kind of dish that everyone, from picky toddlers to hungry teenagers, happily devours?

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Okay, let’s get down to why this Fiesta Chicken Casserole is about to become Your New best friend. First, the flavor. We’re talking a delicious blend of savory chicken, a little kick from chili powder and cumin, and that creamy, cheesy sauce that just brings everything together. It’s a symphony of tastes that’ll have you craving it again and again. Then there’s the simplicity. Honestly, it’s so easy to make! Even on the busiest weeknights, you can have this casserole assembled and in the oven in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s incredibly budget-friendly. Chicken is often on sale, rice is cheap as chips, and you can use whatever veggies you have on hand. It’s a great way to clean out the fridge and feed the family without breaking the bank. But what I love most about this is the versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your own tastes. Add more spice if you like it hot, swap out the veggies, or even use different types of cheese. It’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Think of it like Chicken Pot Pie but with a Tex-Mex twist!

How do I make a Fiesta Chicken Casserole?

Quick Overview

How do you make a Fiesta Chicken Casserole? How do you start prepping your ingredients? What are the best ways to cook rice, shredding chicken, and chopping veggies? What are some good ways to mix everything together in a bowl with the creamy sauce and spices? Is it safe to layer everything in a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden brown? How do you not overcook chicken? What are the beauty of this method is that it’s so forgiving. Don’t have all the ingredients? Is it possible to swap out some of your favorite foods for something different?

Ingredients

For the Main Casserole:
* 3 cups cooked rice (I usually use long grain white rice, but brown rice or even quinoa works too)
* 3 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver here!
* 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup. * 1.
* 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel), undrained.
* 1 cup Sour Cream (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
* 1/2 cup chopped onion
* 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (any color works!)
* 1 teaspoon chili powder
* 1/2 teaspoon cumin
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-In
* 1/2 cup frozen corn, thawed
* 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
* 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Fiesta Chicken Casserole ingredients organized and measured on kitchen counter

What are the Steps to

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This is crucial, trust me. What do you do if your casserole sticks to the bottom? I usually use cooking spray, but a little butter works great too.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes, and salt. Set aside. Green chilies, Sour Cream, onion, bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder and salt. If you’re using any of the optional add-ins (corn, black beans, cilantro), now’s the time to toss. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. Don’t be afraid to get in there and make sure everything is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Layer in Pan

How do I spread the chicken mixture into a baking dish? You want a nice, even layer so that everything cooks consistently.

Step 4: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. What is going to give you that golden brown crust?

Step 5: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the top is crispy. When cheese is melted, it becomes bubbly. How long does it take for cheese to be golden brown?

Step 6: Cool Slightly & Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. How do I stop my mouth from burning? Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired.

What is the best way to serve it?

What do you serve with Fiesta Chicken Casserole? What are some good ideas?

For a complete meal:What are some good side salads with a light vinaigrette? It adds a bit of freshness to balance out the richness of the casserole.

For a Fiesta Feast:Serve with a side of refried beans and some tortilla chips. How do I get the Tex-Mex vibe?

For a lighter option:Serve with steamed broccoli or asparagus. What are some good ways to add fiber to a meal?

My Family’s Favorite:What’s a good side dish to serve with Mexican rice? What is the perfect combination of flavors and textures?

I’ve even been known to serve it with a side of cornbread – it’s not unusual, but the flavor is delicious. The sweetness of cornbread complements the savory casserole perfectly. Is it up to you what you prefer? I always say the best side is what you have on hand!

How do I make a Fiesta Chicken Casserole?

How do I take my Fiesta Chicken Casserole to the next level?

Use High-Quality Chicken: The better the chicken, the better the casserole. I prefer to use organic, free-range chicken whenever possible. It just tastes better.

Don’t Overcook the Rice: Overcooked rice will make your casserole mushy. Cook the rice according to package directions, and be sure to drain it well.

Add Some Heat: If you like a little spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture. Just be careful not to overdo it!

Use Fresh Veggies: Fresh veggies will add more flavor and texture to your casserole. I like to use a combination of onion, bell pepper, and corn, but you can use whatever you have on hand.

Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment: This recipe is very forgiving, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors. Try adding some black beans, olives, or even a layer of crumbled tortilla chips for added crunch.

Let It Rest: After baking, let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This will give it a chance to set up a bit, and prevent it from being too runny. This is so important and I always forget to do it but I promise you’ll get a better casserole every time if you just wait a little.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Got leftovers? No problem! This Fiesta Chicken Casserole stores beautifully.

Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving it at room temperature for more than a couple of hours. Bacteria can start to grow, and nobody wants that.

Refrigerator Storage: Store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It’s great for meal prepping or for a quick and easy lunch.

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or store it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Glaze Timing Advice: When you’re ready to reheat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Then, bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until it’s heated through. You may need to add a little extra cheese on top to freshen it up.

I’ve even been known to microwave individual portions for a super quick and easy lunch. Just be sure to cover it with a paper towel to prevent splattering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just make sure to use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and gluten-free rice. You can also use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to thicken the sauce if needed. I’ve tried it with a few different brands and it comes out great every time!
Do I need to peel the onion?
Nope, you don’t need to peel the onion unless it’s particularly thick or dirty. Just give it a good wash and chop it up! I usually don’t bother peeling it, because let’s be honest, who has the time?
Can I make this as individual servings instead?
Definitely! Just divide the chicken mixture into individual oven-safe dishes or muffin tins. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. This is great if you’re trying to portion out meals, or if you have picky eaters who don’t like their food touching (I’m looking at you, Timmy!).
How can I adjust the spice level?
If you want it spicier, add more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce. If you want it milder, use a mild diced tomatoes and green chilies or omit the chili powder altogether. Start small and taste as you go until you reach your desired level of heat. I always add a little extra cumin too!
What kind of cheese is best for this recipe?
I love using cheddar cheese, but you can use any kind of cheese you like! Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even a blend of Mexican cheeses would all be delicious. I’ve even used pepper jack for an extra kick!

Final Thoughts

Fiesta Chicken Casserole slice on plate showing perfect texture and swirl pattern

So there you have it: my go-to Fiesta Chicken Casserole recipe. It’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights, a crowd-pleaser for potlucks, and just plain delicious any time of year. I hope you’ll give it a try and let me know what you think! And if you’re looking for more easy and delicious dinner recipes, be sure to check out my other casseroles and family-friendly meals. Happy cooking, and can’t wait to see your own Fiesta Chicken Casserole creations! Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how yours turned out. And if you loved this recipe, please give it a rating and share it with your friends!

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Fiesta Chicken Casserole

How to Make the Best 7-Ingredient Fiesta Chicken Casserole Tonight!

This Fiesta Chicken Casserole is a quick and easy dinner recipe that's packed with flavor. Made with just 7 ingredients, it's perfect for busy weeknights!
Prep : 10 Total : 25 minutes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups Cooked Chicken Shredded
  • 10.75 ounce Cream of Chicken Soup
  • 10 ounce Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilies (Rotel)
  • 8 ounce Sour Cream
  • 1 ounce Taco Seasoning
  • 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese
  • 1 bag Tortilla Chips Crushed

Instructions
 

Preparation Steps

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes and green chilies, sour cream, and taco seasoning.
    2 cups Cooked Chicken
  • Spread half of the crushed tortilla chips in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Pour the chicken mixture over the chips.
    2 cups Cooked Chicken
  • Top with remaining tortilla chips and shredded cheddar cheese.
    2 cups Cooked Chicken
  • Bake for 30 minutes, or until heated through and cheese is melted and bubbly.

Notes

Serve immediately and enjoy!

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