Chilies 'N Chicken
Chilies 'N Chicken is a hearty layered casserole combining shredded chicken, spicy chilies, melted cheese, and flavorful spices, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Break up tortillas, placing half on the bottom of a casserole dish.
- Saute chopped onion in 1 tablespoon margarine until translucent.
- Add cream of chicken soups, chili powder, oregano, and chopped chilies to the onion and mix well.
- Layer half of the shredded chicken on the broken tortillas in the casserole dish.
- Pour half of the sauce mixture over the chicken and tortillas.
- Sprinkle half of the grated cheese over the top.
- Repeat the layering with remaining tortillas, chicken, sauce, and cheese.
- Pour 3/4 cup chicken broth evenly over the assembled layers.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing garlic with the onion or using rotisserie chicken as a convenient substitute for cooked chicken breasts. You can also customize the spice level by choosing different types of chopped chilies. If you're looking for a twist, try adding black beans or corn for extra texture. This dish is reminiscent of other Mexican recipes, making it a versatile option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or sliced jalapeños for an extra kick. It pairs beautifully with a side of Mexican rice or a simple green salad to balance the richness. For a fun twist, consider serving it alongside Chicken Taco Pizza for a delightful family meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers 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 (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, but be careful not to overheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chilies 'N Chicken contains roughly 1066 calories, with 29g protein, 87g carbohydrates, and 70g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (79% of the Daily Value), protein (58% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the layers in advance and refrigerate the assembled casserole for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you're cooking it straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of Longhorn cheese?
If Longhorn cheese is not available, you can substitute with Monterey Jack or Cheddar cheese for a similar taste and meltiness. Mixing different cheeses can also enhance the flavor profile of the dish.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian adaptation, replace the chicken with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and keep the other ingredients as they are for a delicious meat-free option.
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).