🌮 Cheesy Chicken Taco Casserole 🧀🔥
Creamy salsa chicken, crunchy chips, and melty cheese—all baked into a bold, comforting casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
When taco night meets casserole magic, the result is a cheesy, crispy, flavor-packed dinner that the whole family will devour. Cheesy Chicken Taco Casserole combines the best parts of tacos—zesty salsa, seasoned chicken, and crispy chips—with creamy soup and tons of gooey cheese. It’s quick to make, crowd-pleasing, and oh-so-satisfying.
Whether you’re cooking for your crew or making a meal to share, this easy casserole is always a weeknight winner.
📝 Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
For the Casserole:
20 oz cream of chicken soup (two 10 oz cans)
1 cup chunky salsa (mild, medium, or hot—your choice)
3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or Mexican blend cheese
½ cup sour cream (optional, for added creaminess)
1 tsp taco seasoning
1 bag (about 4–5 cups) crushed tortilla chips or corn chips
¼ cup chopped green onions or fresh cilantro (for garnish)
🔥 Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Make the Creamy Chicken Filling
In a large bowl, stir together:
Cream of chicken soup
Salsa
Sour cream (if using)
Taco seasoning
Shredded chicken
1 cup of the cheddar cheese
Mix until everything is fully combined and coated.
3. Layer the Casserole
In the prepared baking dish:
Base layer: Spread half of the crushed chips across the bottom.
Middle layer: Pour and spread all of the creamy chicken mixture evenly on top.
Top layer: Sprinkle the remaining chips over the chicken, then top with the remaining ½ cup cheddar and 1 cup Monterey Jack or Mexican blend cheese.
4. Bake It Up
Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are golden brown.
5. Garnish & Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool for about 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh cilantro.
Optional toppings:
Dollops of sour cream
Sliced jalapeños
Diced tomatoes
Avocado or guacamole
Hot sauce or taco sauce
Slice and serve warm!
🧑🍳 Pro Tips
Use rotisserie chicken for fast prep and added flavor.
Add beans or corn to stretch the casserole and boost nutrition—black beans, pinto beans, or canned corn are perfect.
Spice it up with a pinch of cayenne, chopped jalapeños, or hot salsa.
Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole (minus the top cheese layer), refrigerate, and bake later. Add cheese just before baking.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a full meal on its own, but you can round it out with:
🥗 Simple side salad with lime vinaigrette
🌽 Elote-style corn or roasted corn on the cob
🍚 Spanish or cilantro-lime rice
🫘 Refried or black beans
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Wrap well and label.
To reheat: Microwave individual servings or bake in a 350°F oven until hot throughout.
❤️ Why You’ll Love It
Ultra comforting: Warm, cheesy, and satisfying in every bite.
Fast & family-friendly: Easy to prep, and picky eaters will love it.
Flexible: Customize with your favorite taco toppings and pantry staples.
Crowd-pleaser: Great for potlucks, casual dinners, and freezer meals.
Final Thoughts
If tacos, nachos, and cheesy chicken had a casserole baby, it would be this dish. Cheesy Chicken Taco Casserole is everything we love about Tex-Mex comfort food—quick, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. Layered with bold salsa, juicy chicken, crunchy chips, and molten cheese, it’s the ultimate way to level up taco night.
Make it once, and you’ll be adding this one to your weekly rotation. 🌮🧀🔥
Ready to dig in? Your oven is calling!