El Paso Casserole(Microwave)
A cheesy microwave casserole with tender chicken, green chilies, and pimentos, layered with crunchy corn chips—perfect for a quick, flavorful family meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix Cheez Whiz, soup, and milk in a 2-quart mixing bowl until smooth.
- Combine all remaining ingredients except corn chips.
- Place half of the corn chips in the bottom of a 2-quart baking dish.
- Top with half of the Cheez Whiz mixture.
- Microwave on high for 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, you can substitute the Cheese Whiz with a blend of cream cheese and shredded cheddar. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding jalapeños or using spicy green chillies. Additionally, this dish can be made ahead and frozen; just ensure to layer the corn chips separately until ready to bake to maintain their crunch.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or some guacamole for a complete meal. You can also serve it with sour cream on the side for added richness. For a twist, try it alongside Lemon Butter Chicken Breasts for a delightful chicken-themed dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover El Paso Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If frozen, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of El Paso Casserole(Microwave) contains roughly 260 calories, with 5g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 674mg per serving (29% 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 leftover rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a great way to save time and add flavor. Just shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and follow the recipe as directed.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you're looking for a healthier option, you can use a homemade cream sauce or substitute with cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile. Ensure the substitute maintains a similar consistency.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it without the corn chips, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add the corn chips and follow the cooking instructions.
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).