Chicken Jalapeno
A cheesy, spicy chicken casserole with jalapenos and crunchy Doritos, perfect for a flavorful family dinner or casual gathering with bold, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stew chicken, then cook and chop it.
- Line the bottom of a casserole dish with Doritos.
- Mix cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and chicken broth.
- Stir chopped chicken into the soup mixture and season with salt and pepper.
- Pour the mixture over the Doritos in the casserole dish.
- Bake in a 350°F oven until bubbly, about 30 minutes.
- Sprinkle grated Monterey Jack cheese over the top and heat until the cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding more jalapenos or using pepper jack cheese instead of Monterey Jack. You can substitute the Doritos with tortilla chips or crushed crackers if preferred. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken can be a great alternative for the stewed chicken, making this dish quicker to prepare.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is hearty on its own but pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It would also be delicious alongside some cornbread or served with a dollop of sour cream and fresh cilantro on top. For a comforting combination, try serving it with Chicken And Rice Soup With Celery Tops.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual portions until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Jalapeno contains roughly 260 calories, with 16g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1066mg per serving (46% 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 cheese?
Absolutely! While Monterey Jack adds a nice creaminess, feel free to experiment with cheddar, pepper jack, or even a blend of cheeses for added flavor. Each type will contribute a different taste and texture to the dish.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes, you can replace chicken with a mix of vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini or use a meat substitute like tofu or tempeh. You may want to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through.
What can I serve on the side?
This casserole is quite filling on its own, but it pairs well with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables. You might also consider serving it with rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce.
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).