Tex-Mex Chicken Casserole Bursting with Flavor

Tex-Mex Chicken Casserole Bursting with Flavor is a tasty, hearty dish packed with seasoned chicken, melted cheese, beans, corn, and a touch of spicy salsa that brings everything together. It’s…

By Riley • November 3, 2025 • Reading time: 6 min

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Tex-Mex Chicken Casserole Bursting with Flavor is a tasty, hearty dish packed with seasoned chicken, melted cheese, beans, corn, and a touch of spicy salsa that brings everything together. It’s the kind of casserole that fills your kitchen with the smell of Tex-Mex goodness and feels like a comforting warm hug on a plate.

I love making this casserole whenever I want something easy to prepare but still full of personality. What I really enjoy is that it’s one of those recipes where you can toss in whatever you have—leftover chicken, extra veggies, or more cheese—and it still comes out delicious every time. Plus, it’s a great dish to make ahead and pop in the oven when you’re ready.

For serving, I usually top it with some fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, and a squeeze of lime to brighten up all the rich flavors. It pairs perfectly with a simple side salad or some crunchy tortilla chips. Whenever I bring this casserole to a gathering, it’s always the first dish to disappear, and that’s my favorite kind of success!

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Cooked chicken: Using shredded cooked chicken keeps this dish easy and quick. Rotisserie chicken works great! If you want a vegetarian version, try cooked beans or tofu instead.

Diced tomatoes with green chilies: These add moisture and a mild kick. Can’t find them? Use plain diced tomatoes plus a little chili powder or chopped jalapeño for heat.

Cheese: The sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack give a creamy, melty texture and tangy flavor. You can swap them with mozzarella or a Mexican cheese blend if you like.

Corn tortillas: They make the casserole hearty and add a nice texture layer. If you prefer, use flour tortillas or even tortilla chips for crunch.

Taco seasoning: A simple spice blend that ties all the flavors together. You can buy pre-made or mix your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

How Do I Layer This Casserole for Best Flavor and Texture?

Layering properly helps every bite get a perfect mix of flavors and keeps the casserole moist but not soggy.

1. Start with half the quartered tortillas on the bottom—they soak up moisture and hold the casserole together.
2. Spread half the chicken mixture evenly on top for a good balance of ingredients.
3. Add another layer of tortillas to create a layered texture.
4. Spread the remaining chicken mixture over the tortillas to keep the dish rich and full of flavor.
5. Finish by sprinkling cheese and olives on top for a bubbly, melty, and colorful finish.
6. Bake uncovered so the cheese browns nicely and the edges crisp up a bit.

This layering method ensures you get soft tortillas that still hold shape, juicy chicken and beans, and melted cheese perfection every time.

Equipment You’ll Need

• 9×13-inch casserole dish – perfect size for layering and baking everything evenly.
• Mixing bowl – to combine chicken, beans, veggies, and spices easily.
• Sharp knife – for chopping onions, tomatoes, and cilantro cleanly.
• Measuring cups and spoons – to get your cheese, spices, and sour cream just right.
• Spatula or large spoon – for stirring the mixture and spreading layers smoothly.
• Aluminum foil (optional) – to cover the casserole if you want to prevent over-browning while baking.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Swap chicken for ground beef or turkey for a different texture and flavor that still works well with Tex-Mex spices.
• Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for extra crunch and a spicy kick.
• Mix in black or pinto beans to make it heartier and boost plant-based protein.
• Try topping with a mix of pepper jack and cheddar cheeses for a creamier, spicy melt.

How to Make Tex-Mex Chicken Casserole Bursting with Flavor

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Main Ingredients:

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel), drained
• 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup canned corn, drained
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning (or homemade blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika)
• 8 corn tortillas, cut into quarters
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cheese and Toppings:

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus extra for garnish
• 1/2 cup sliced black olives, plus extra for garnish
• 3 green onions, sliced (white and green parts separated)
• 1 medium tomato, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: lime wedges for serving

How Much Time Will You Need?

This Tex-Mex Chicken Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and assemble, plus 25-30 minutes to bake in the oven. Allow about 5 minutes to cool before serving. Overall, you’re looking at roughly 45 minutes from start to finish!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare:

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.

2. Mix the Filling:

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, drained diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, corn, chopped onion, minced garlic, ¼ cup cilantro, taco seasoning, sour cream, and half of both cheeses (cheddar and Monterey Jack). Stir everything well until evenly mixed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Layer the Casserole:

Start by spreading half of the quartered corn tortillas evenly in the bottom of the casserole dish. Then add half of the chicken mixture on top. Add the remaining quartered tortillas as a second layer, followed by the rest of the chicken mixture spread evenly on top.

4. Add Cheese and Olives:

Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over the top of the casserole. Scatter ½ cup of sliced black olives evenly on top of the cheese for added flavor.

5. Bake:

Place the casserole in your preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

6. Garnish and Serve:

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh tomato, sliced green onions, extra cilantro, and additional black olives. Serve warm, and if you like, add a squeeze of lime and a dollop of sour cream to each plate.

Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Casserole?

Yes! Just make sure you fully thaw it first in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Once thawed, shred the chicken as usual and proceed with the recipe.

Can I Make This Tex-Mex Chicken Casserole Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, stirring if needed for even heating.

What Can I Substitute for Corn Tortillas?

You can use flour tortillas cut into pieces or even tortilla chips for a crunchier texture. Just keep in mind that chips will add extra crispiness and a slightly different mouthfeel.