Chicken Chili Verde
Chicken Chili Verde is a hearty, flavorful casserole combining tender chicken, green chilies, melted cheese, and crispy tortillas. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, its comforting taste and vibrant flavors make it a crowd-pleaser with a mild spicy kick.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 9 x 13-inch pan, pour a little oil to prevent sticking and spread out one layer of tortillas.
- Scoop out cooked chicken and spread it over the tortillas.
- Sprinkle a little water over the chicken layer.
- Spread grated Longhorn cheese and a spoonful of diced green chilies over the chicken.
- Season with dried onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Repeat the layers as deep as desired, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
- Mix the cream of chicken soup with half a can of water and spoon over the assembled layers.
- Cover the pan and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce alongside the green chilies. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute whole wheat tortillas and low-fat cream of chicken soup. You can also use shredded rotisserie chicken to save time. This dish is reminiscent of traditional Mexican recipes, offering a comforting blend of flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chicken Chili Verde with a side of fresh guacamole and tortilla chips for a complete meal. A crisp green salad or Mexican corn salad pairs wonderfully as a refreshing side. For an added touch, garnish with cilantro and lime wedges. This dish also pairs beautifully with Enchilada Verde Casserole for a hearty feast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to add a splash of water to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Chili Verde contains roughly 600 calories, with 12g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1745mg per serving (76% 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 use fresh chicken instead of canned?
Absolutely! You can use cooked, shredded fresh chicken instead of canned. Simply cook the chicken until fully done, shred it, and follow the same layering instructions. This will enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with black beans or cooked lentils. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. Use a vegetable-based cream of chicken soup if available.
Can I freeze Chicken Chili Verde?
Yes, this dish freezes well! Before baking, cover tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly.
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).