Super Easy Chicken Nacho Casserole
If you’re looking for a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious, the Super Easy Chicken Nacho Casserole is your answer. This casserole is the perfect blend of flavors, featuring tender chicken, zesty spices, and all the cheesy goodness you could desire. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or simply looking for a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, using just a few pantry staples. Let’s dive into how to create this mouthwatering dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Super Easy Chicken Nacho Casserole is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with flavors that will please even the pickiest eaters. The combination of chicken, cheese, and spices makes it a hearty meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love this recipe:
– **Quick Prep Time**: With just a few steps and minimal prep, you can have a delicious casserole ready in no time.
– **Flavorful Ingredients**: Each layer is packed with flavor, thanks to the taco seasoning and zesty tomatoes.
– **Crowd-Pleaser**: This dish is perfect for gatherings, ensuring that everyone leaves satisfied.
– **Versatile**: You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
Ingredient List
To make your Super Easy Chicken Nacho Casserole, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 (1-ounce) packet Old El Paso Taco Seasoning or homemade
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup cheddar cheese soup from a can
- 1 (10-ounce) can Rotel tomatoes
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can Old El Paso chopped green chiles
- 16 ounces Mexican blend cheese, divided
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 6 cups tortilla chips (store-bought or homemade, lightly crushed and divided)
Cook’s Kit
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following kitchen tools:
- Large skillet: For cooking the chicken and combining ingredients.
- Mixing bowl: To combine the soups and seasonings.
- Baking dish: For assembling and baking the casserole.
- Cooking spoon: For stirring and mixing.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient measurements.
Super Easy Chicken Nacho Casserole — Do This Next
Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready, it’s time to get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your delicious casserole.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken breasts, seasoning them with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
Step 2: Add the Seasoning
Once the chicken is cooked, sprinkle the Old El Paso Taco Seasoning over the chicken. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly with the spices.
Step 3: Combine the Soups
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cheddar cheese soup, Rotel tomatoes, and chopped green chiles. Mix until well blended.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Soup Mixture
Add the cooked chicken to the soup mixture, along with the drained black beans and half of the Mexican blend cheese. Stir until everything is combined.
Step 5: Layer the Casserole
In a baking dish, spread half of the crushed tortilla chips evenly on the bottom. Pour the chicken and soup mixture over the chips, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining tortilla chips and sprinkle the rest of the Mexican blend cheese over the top.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the top for a burst of color and flavor.
Allergy-Friendly Substitutes
If you or your guests have specific dietary restrictions, consider these substitutes:
- Chicken: Use turkey or tofu for a different protein option.
- Soup: Replace cream of chicken and cheddar cheese soup with dairy-free alternatives or homemade versions.
- Beans: Swap black beans for pinto beans or omit them if you prefer.
- Chips: Use gluten-free tortilla chips to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
Author’s Commentary
This Super Easy Chicken Nacho Casserole is one of those recipes that never fails to impress. I love how versatile it is; you can easily switch up the ingredients based on what you have on hand. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use leftover chicken! The combination of flavors is just incredible, and the best part is that it’s all baked together, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully. My family devours it every time I make it, and I’m sure yours will too!
Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat
If you have leftovers (which is unlikely but possible!), here’s how to store and reheat your casserole:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: You can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in foil and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking.
- Reheat: To reheat, simply pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
Quick Q&A
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses. Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even mozzarella would work great!
Is this casserole kid-friendly?
Yes! The flavors are mild and cheesy, making it appealing to kids. You can adjust the spices according to their taste preferences.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole and store it in the fridge for a day before baking. Just let it sit at room temperature for a bit before popping it in the oven.
What should I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, guacamole, or sour cream for added creaminess. It’s a complete meal on its own!
Healthy-ish Favorites
If you’re looking for more delicious and easy recipes, check out these favorites:
Wrap-Up
In conclusion, the Super Easy Chicken Nacho Casserole is a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s simple, satisfying, and sure to become a favorite in your household. The combination of flavors, textures, and ease of preparation makes it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a hearty meal that everyone will love. Happy cooking!
Super Easy Chicken Nacho Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken breasts, seasoning them with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
- Once the chicken is cooked, sprinkle the Old El Paso Taco Seasoning over the chicken. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly with the spices.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cheddar cheese soup, Rotel tomatoes, and chopped green chiles. Mix until well blended.
- Add the cooked chicken to the soup mixture, along with the drained black beans and half of the Mexican blend cheese. Stir until everything is combined.
- In a baking dish, spread half of the crushed tortilla chips evenly on the bottom. Pour the chicken and soup mixture over the chips, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining tortilla chips and sprinkle the rest of the Mexican blend cheese over the top.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the top for a burst of color and flavor.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or use spicy taco seasoning.
- This casserole can be made ahead and stored in the fridge before baking.
- Customize the toppings with your favorite ingredients like olives or avocado.
