Chicken Chalupa
Chicken Chalupas feature tender chicken, creamy cheese, and savory chilies wrapped in tortillas, offering a hearty, flavorful Mexican-inspired dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grate the Jack and Cheddar cheeses together.
- In a bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, diced Ortega chilies, grated onion, half of the green onion tops, sour cream, sliced black olives, and two-thirds of the grated cheese.
- Set aside 1 1/2 cups of this mixture.
- Add the cooked, bite-sized chicken breasts to the remaining mixture and mix well.
- Place three heaping tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto each flour tortilla.
- Roll up the tortillas and place them in a shallow baking pan.
- Spread the remaining 1 1/2 cups of the mixture over the rolled tortillas.
- Sprinkle the top with one-third of the grated cheese, the remaining green onion tops, and paprika.
- Refrigerate the assembled dish overnight.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a blend of sour cream and Greek yogurt. You can also substitute the chicken breasts with shredded rotisserie chicken for quicker prep. If you prefer a spicier kick, add more Ortega chilies or jalapeños. When grating cheese, chill it first to make grating easier. This dish can also be made with corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken Chalupa with a dollop of guacamole or salsa on the side for added flavor. A fresh green salad or Mexican corn salad works well as a light accompaniment. For a complete meal, consider pairing this dish with Mexican rice or refried beans. It’s a fantastic dish to share during gatherings, much like the Chicken Enchilada Au Gratin.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Chicken Chalupa can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, but the oven method helps maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Chalupa contains roughly 382 calories, with 22g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1002mg per serving (44% 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 Chicken Chalupa ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for make-ahead meals. You can prepare the entire recipe and refrigerate it overnight before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to bake it right before serving to enjoy it warm and cheesy.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
If you're looking for a substitute, you can use homemade cream of chicken soup made with chicken broth, milk, and flour. Alternatively, cream of mushroom soup can work well too, adding a different flavor profile. For a lighter option, consider using a homemade white sauce.
Can I freeze Chicken Chalupa?
Yes, you can freeze Chicken Chalupa before baking. Wrap the assembled dish tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it will keep in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
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).