Jalopies
Jalopies are cheesy, creamy chicken and tortilla casserole with layered flavors, perfect for a comforting family meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the cream of chicken soup and sour cream together in a bowl.
- Layer corn tortillas in the bottom of a baking dish.
- Spread shredded cooked chicken over the tortillas.
- Pour the soup and sour cream mixture over the chicken layer.
- Sprinkle grated Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top.
- Add a final layer of grated Cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a can of diced green chilies to the soup mixture. If you want to make this dish lighter, use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream. You can also substitute the chicken with shredded turkey or a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option. Serve with a side salad for a refreshing balance to the richness of this casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans. For a fresh twist, serve it with a simple avocado salad or some salsa on the side. It also works well alongside tortilla chips for a fun appetizer spread. Consider offering a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the dish with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jalopies contains roughly 378 calories, with 18g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (36% of the Daily Value), calcium (36% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 853mg per serving (37% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely mix and match cheeses based on your preference. For a sharper flavor, try using Pepper Jack cheese, or for a milder taste, opt for mozzarella. Just ensure that the total amount of cheese remains similar to maintain the dish's cheesy goodness.
Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make this dish vegetarian, substitute the shredded chicken with a mixture of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and corn. You can also use black beans or lentils for added protein. Just ensure the cream of chicken soup is replaced with a vegetarian alternative.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead. Assemble all the layers, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to cook, simply bake it directly from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
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).