Chili Chicken Casserole
A hearty and flavorful casserole combining chili, creamy soups, cheese, and tortillas for a comforting meal. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish offers a spicy, cheesy taste with tender chicken and savory olives, baked to bubbly perfection for a satisfying experience.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cans of chili, cream of mushroom soup, and cream of chicken soup together in a bowl.
- Cut the tortillas into bite-sized pieces.
- Cut the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Cut the olives into bite-sized pieces.
- In a 2-quart casserole dish, layer starting with the soup mixture, then chicken, olives, tortillas, and cheese.
- Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until it bubbles, about 30 to 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier flavor, consider adding jalapeños or diced green chilies to the mixture. You can substitute the Monterey Jack cheese with pepper jack for an extra kick. If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, a can of cream of celery can work just as well. This casserole is versatile; you can even use leftover rotisserie chicken from other meals, like Chicken-Stuffing Delight.
Serving Suggestions
This chili chicken casserole pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the sauce. For a more filling meal, serve it alongside rice or quinoa. It also works well with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top, adding creaminess and flavor. For additional inspiration, check out other comforting American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chili chicken casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven method helps retain the casserole's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Chicken Casserole contains roughly 486 calories, with 23g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (46% of the Daily Value), calcium (45% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (30% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1329mg per serving (58% 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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply layer all the ingredients in the casserole dish, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of tortillas?
If you don't have tortillas, you can use cornbread or even pasta sheets as a base. Alternatively, some people prefer to layer the casserole with crushed tortilla chips for added crunch. Just be mindful of the cooking time as these alternatives may require adjustments.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the chicken and adding more vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or black beans. Use vegetable broth and substitute the cream soups with a vegan alternative or homemade versions for a hearty and satisfying dish.
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).