South Texas Chicken Casserole
A hearty South Texas chicken casserole layered with tortilla chips, creamy cheeses, and flavorful tomatoes, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the chicken, let it cool, then remove from bones and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Mix cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, Ro-Tel tomatoes, and Velveeta cheese in a microwave-safe bowl and heat until Velveeta is melted.
- Add salt, pepper, and cooked chicken to the cheese mixture and stir.
- Crush enough tortilla chips to cover the bottom of a casserole dish.
- Pour half of the chicken mixture over the crushed chips.
- Add a layer of crushed chips over the chicken mixture.
- Pour the remaining chicken mixture over the second layer of chips.
- Top with more crushed chips and sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 45 to 55 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and a spoon of sour cream before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider using spicy Ro-Tel tomatoes or adding some diced jalapeños to the cheese mixture. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can substitute one of the soups with sour cream. Additionally, using baked tortilla chips can help reduce calories without sacrificing flavor. This dish is a great way to use leftover chicken from other meals, like Creamed Chicken Tacos.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole hot, garnished with chopped green onions and a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess. This dish pairs well with a fresh garden salad or some Mexican rice on the side. For a complete meal, you might also consider serving it alongside Creamy Cheese Chicken Enchiladas for a delightful combination of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers 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 retain moisture, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven helps maintain the crispy texture of the chips.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of South Texas Chicken Casserole contains roughly 505 calories, with 21g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (41% of the Daily Value), calcium (38% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2033mg per serving (88% 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 a different type of cheese in this casserole?
Absolutely! While Velveeta and Cheddar are traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that the cheese melts well for the best texture.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
Is there a vegetarian option for this casserole?
Certainly! You can substitute the chicken with a mixture of black beans, corn, and bell peppers for a vegetarian version. This keeps the dish hearty while still maintaining the flavors. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time if using cooked beans.
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).