Tortilla-Chicken Casserole
A hearty, cheesy chicken casserole layered with tortillas, green chilies, and flavorful soups, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the chicken and tear into small strips when cool.
- Cut the tortillas into small strips.
- Mix together the diced onion and green chilies.
- Combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and evaporated milk.
- Grease a 9 x 13 inch pan.
- Spread a layer of the soup mixture on the bottom of the pan.
- Add a layer of cooked chicken, onion, and chilies.
- Add a layer of tortilla strips.
- Sprinkle with grated cheddar cheese.
- Repeat layering: soup mixture, chicken mixture, tortilla strips, and cheese, ending with cheese on top.
- Sprinkle with paprika.
- Cover with foil and bake at 300°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, try using smoked paprika instead of regular paprika. You can substitute the sharp cheddar with Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a different taste. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken works well in this recipe. Additionally, feel free to include extra vegetables like bell peppers or corn to enhance the nutrition and flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a side of fresh salad or guacamole for a refreshing contrast. It pairs beautifully with Chicken And Mashed Potatoes or a simple rice dish. For a festive touch, garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions before serving. It's perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, offering a satisfying and comforting meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place portions in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in short intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated thoroughly, about 20-30 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tortilla-Chicken Casserole contains roughly 518 calories, with 16g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (33% of the Daily Value), calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1248mg per serving (54% 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 corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Yes, you can use corn tortillas, but keep in mind that they may not hold together as well as flour tortillas. If you do use corn tortillas, slightly warm them in a skillet first to make them more pliable and easier to layer.
How can I make this casserole healthier?
To make this casserole healthier, consider using low-fat versions of the soups and cheese. You can also add more vegetables, such as spinach or zucchini, to increase the nutritional value without compromising taste. Substituting whole grain tortillas can also add fiber to the dish.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's going into the oven cold, ensuring it heats through completely.
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).