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Easy Chicken Nacho Casserole served in a casserole dish, topped with cheese and jalapeños.

Chicken Nacho Casserole

A comforting and cheesy casserole filled with seasoned chicken, black beans, corn, and layers of melty cheese, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food, Mexican
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts Use lean cuts for a healthier option.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil For cooking the chicken.
  • 1 packet taco seasoning (1 ounce) Any brand of taco seasoning will work.
  • 1/2 cup water Used to moisten the seasoning.
  • 1 can diced tomatoes and green chilies (10 ounces), undrained Rotel is a popular choice.
  • 1 can black beans (15 ounces), rinsed and drained Adds fiber and protein.
  • 1 can corn (15 ounces), drained Sweet corn adds flavor.
  • 1 cup cooked rice White or brown rice works.
  • 1 bag tortilla chips (10-12 ounces), roughly broken For the base layer.
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese A must-have for that cheesy topping.
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese For additional flavor.
Optional Toppings
  • 1/2 cup sour cream For garnish.
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions Adds freshness.
  • 1/4 cup sliced black olives Optional but recommended.
  • to taste jalapeño slices For a spicy kick.
  • to serve guacamole Optional but delicious.
  • to serve salsa For additional flavor.

Method
 

Cooking the Chicken
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C).
  2. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it cool slightly. Shred with two forks or a stand mixer using the paddle attachment at low speed.
  3. Return shredded chicken to the skillet. Add taco seasoning and water, stirring well to coat. Simmer for 5 minutes until the liquid reduces.
Assembling the Casserole
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish for non-stick perfection.
  3. Spread a layer of roughly broken tortilla chips evenly across the bottom.
  4. Spoon the seasoned chicken mixture over the chips, followed by the drained black beans and corn.
  5. Pour the undrained diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel) over the black beans and corn.
  6. Sprinkle the cooked rice evenly over the diced tomatoes and green chilies.
  7. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the rice.
  8. Repeat layers one through six, finishing off with the remaining cheese.
Baking
  1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
  2. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and heavenly.
  3. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving.
  4. Top with optional sour cream, chopped green onions, sliced black olives, jalapeño slices, guacamole, and salsa, if desired.
  5. Serve warm, basking in the glory of your culinary creation.

Notes

Consider using dairy-free cheese and lean proteins for healthier variations. Ensure the chips are broken generously but not pulverized to maintain crunch.