Tia Lola'S Casserole
A hearty layered casserole featuring tender chicken, cheesy richness, and flavorful chilies, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with bold, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the chicken until tender; then remove skin, bone, and fat.
- Shred the cooked chicken meat.
- Cut the corn tortillas into 4 strips each.
- Grate the Cheddar cheese.
- Mix the cans of cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups with enough water to make a thick sauce.
- Divide the ingredients into three equal parts to make three layers.
- In a 9 x 13-inch pan, cover the bottom with 1/2 cup of the soup mixture.
- Lay a layer of tortilla strips over the soup.
- Spread a layer of shredded chicken over the tortillas.
- Add a layer of tomato sauce and chopped Ortega chilies.
- Sprinkle cheese over the top.
- Repeat the layering process two more times, ending with a cheese layer on top.
- Bake until hot and bubbly, about 30-45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the soup mixture. If you want a spicier kick, use hot Ortega chilies or add diced jalapeños. Corn tortillas can be substituted with flour tortillas for a different texture. This dish can also be made Enchilada Style Casserole by adding enchilada sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is delicious served with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh green salad. Top with chopped cilantro and a dollop of sour cream for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with Fiesta (Party) Chicken for a festive meal. For a vegetarian option, consider using a meat substitute or more vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through, covering with foil to prevent over-browning. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tia Lola'S Casserole contains roughly 861 calories, with 32g protein, 113g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (64% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (54% of the Daily Value), and calcium (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1157mg per serving (50% 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 chicken for this casserole?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great and can save you time. Just shred the chicken and layer it as directed. This is a perfect way to utilize leftover chicken recipes while adding delicious flavors to your casserole.
Can I freeze Tia Lola's Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole before baking. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as instructed. It’s a great make-ahead option for busy days.
What can I use instead of cream soups?
If you're looking for a healthier option, you can create a homemade sauce using chicken broth, milk, and a thickening agent like cornstarch or flour. This swap can make the dish lighter while still providing a creamy texture. Alternatively, consider using a vegan cream soup or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
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).