Baked Chicken Viva
Baked Chicken Viva is a comforting casserole that brings together tender shredded chicken, creamy soups, and zesty green chiles, all layered with crunchy tortilla strips and melty cheddar cheese. Perfect for family gatherings, this dish is rich in flavor and sure to please a crowd.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bake chicken breasts; bone and shred.
- In a large bowl, add tortillas (cut into strips), soups, salsa, chiles, and cheese to the chicken.
- Mix well.
- Pat into a 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes at 300°.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavors of Baked Chicken Viva, consider adding spices like cumin or chili powder to the chicken while baking. For a healthier twist, use whole wheat tortillas or low-fat cheese. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken can be a convenient substitute for baked chicken. Feel free to experiment with different soups, like cream of mushroom, to add variety to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Baked Chicken Viva is delicious on its own but can be served with sides like Spanish Rice(Arroz Espanol) or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Consider adding toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, or fresh cilantro for extra flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with Chicken Enchiladas Casserole, making it a fantastic option for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, for about 2-3 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Chicken Viva contains roughly 657 calories, with 36g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (72% of the Daily Value), calcium (44% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1090mg per serving (47% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare Baked Chicken Viva a day in advance. Assemble the ingredients and store the unbaked casserole in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of cream soups?
If you're looking for a healthier alternative, you can use homemade white sauce or a mixture of Greek yogurt and chicken broth as a substitute for cream soups. This will keep the dish creamy while reducing sodium and calories.
Can I freeze Baked Chicken Viva?
Yes, Baked Chicken Viva freezes well! After cooking, let the casserole cool completely. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).