Chicken Cortez
Creamy and flavorful chicken casserole with spicy hot sauce, melted cheeses, and a comforting blend of vegetables, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook chicken breasts in a glass dish covered with waxed paper for 16 to 18 minutes.
- Cool the chicken and tear into bite-sized pieces.
- Combine the cooked chicken, sour cream, evaporated milk, cream of chicken soup, hot sauce, chopped onion, chopped celery, green chilies, tortilla pieces, and cheeses in a large bowl.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Microwave the mixture for 12 to 14 minutes, turning halfway through the cooking time until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. If you want to reduce the spice level, opt for mild hot sauce or omit the green chilies. For a twist, you can also add black beans or corn to the mixture. This dish is versatile, so feel free to experiment with other Mexican recipes that incorporate chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken Cortez with warm corn tortillas or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with Mexi-Veg Rice Salad for a refreshing side. For an extra kick, consider adding fresh cilantro or avocado on top. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave on medium power in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Alternatively, you can bake it in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Cortez contains roughly 776 calories, with 30g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (60% of the Daily Value), calcium (59% of the Daily Value), and iron (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1631mg per serving (71% 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 other types of meat in this recipe?
Yes, you can easily substitute shredded beef or pork for the chicken. Just ensure that the meat is cooked thoroughly before mixing it with the other ingredients. This recipe can be adapted to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
To prepare it ahead of time, you can assemble all the ingredients in the bowl, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before microwaving. Just make sure to allow it to come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even heating.
Is it possible to freeze Chicken Cortez?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled mixture before cooking. Just transfer it to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then microwave 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).