Ina Garten Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe

If you love warm, cozy and bold flavors, you will enjoy this Ina Garten Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe. This dish is simple, creamy and full of delicious ingredients.

It is great for busy nights because it needs little work and tastes amazing every time. You get tender chicken, cheese, spices and tortillas baked into a perfect casserole. If you want comfort food with a fun twist, this recipe is a great choice.

This Ina Garten Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe is also easy to customize. You can add more spice, more cheese or more veggies. The best part is that you need simple ingredients.

You can also make it ahead and bake later. If you want to know how to make Ina Garten Mexican Chicken Casserole, this guide will help you step by step.

My Experience With This Recipe

I love making this casserole on nights when I need something warm and easy. The flavors taste rich but also very fresh.

The mix of chicken, cheese and spices feels perfect after a long day. My family always asks for seconds. I also love how simple it is to prepare. It is a dish that looks impressive but needs only basic steps.

Recipe Card Info

• Recipe Name: Ina Garten Mexican Chicken Casserole
• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 35 mins
• Total Time: 50 mins
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Mexican-American
• Calories: 420 kcal per serving

Equipment List

• Large bowl
• Mixing spoon
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• 9×13 baking dish
• Oven

Ingredients You Need for Ina Garten Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe

• 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese (shredded)
• 1 can Rotel tomatoes (drained)
• 1 cup black beans (rinsed)
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 8 small flour tortillas
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Chicken Mix

Mix chicken, Rotel, beans, corn and spices in a large bowl until everything blends well.

2. Add Creamy Ingredients

Add sour cream, half of each cheese and chicken broth to the mix. Stir until smooth and creamy.

3. Slice the Tortillas

Cut tortillas into small strips so they mix easily with the casserole layers.

4. Build the First Layer

Spread some chicken mix on the bottom of the baking dish to create a soft base.

5. Add Tortilla Strips

Place tortilla strips over the first layer, covering the surface without pressing too hard.

6. Add More Filling

Spread more chicken filling over the tortillas to create even layers throughout.

7. Repeat the Layers

Continue layering tortillas and filling until you reach the top of the dish.

8. Add Cheese Topping

Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top to get a golden crust after baking.

9. Bake the Casserole

Bake at 350°F for 30–35 minutes until cheese melts and bubbles around the edges.

10. Rest and Serve

Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes before cutting so the layers stay firm.

Tips to Make the Best Ina Garten Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe

• Use rotisserie chicken for quick prep.
• Add jalapeños if you want more heat.
• Mix cheeses for a richer flavor.
• Ensure tortillas are fully covered with filling.
• Let the casserole rest before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Do not add too much broth or it becomes watery.
• Do not skip draining Rotel tomatoes.
• Avoid overbaking or cheese becomes too hard.
• Do not cut before resting time.
• Avoid using uncooked chicken in the casserole.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole tastes great with fresh toppings. You can add avocado, salsa, cilantro or lime juice. Serve it with rice, salad or warm tortillas. It makes a cozy meal for family dinners, parties or weekend nights.

Variations You Can Try

• Use corn tortillas instead of flour.
• Add spinach or zucchini for extra veggies.
• Use pepper jack cheese for spice.
• Replace chicken with turkey.
• Add crushed tortilla chips on top for crunch.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Store in an airtight container for 3 days.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat in the oven at 300°F for 15 minutes.
• Microwave individual portions for quick meals.
• Add extra cheese when reheating for better flavor.

Nutrition Information

Nutrients	Amount
Calories	420 kcal
Protein	32g
Carbs	28g
Fat	22g

Health Benefits

This casserole provides protein from chicken and beans. It also gives fiber from corn and beans.

The spices support digestion and the dish keeps you full for long hours. You can also adjust ingredients to make it lighter or healthier.

FAQs About Ina Garten Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe

1. Can I make this casserole a day ahead?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole, cover it and refrigerate it overnight. The flavors blend well, and you can bake it the next day with great results.

2. Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Leftover chicken works very well. Just shred it and mix it with the creamy filling. This helps reduce food waste and saves time during cooking.

3. How do I make this casserole spicier?
You can add jalapeños, hot sauce, chili flakes or pepper jack cheese. These ingredients increase the heat while keeping the flavor rich and balanced.

4. Can I replace sour cream with Greek yogurt?
Yes, Greek yogurt works great and makes the casserole lighter. It keeps the creamy texture while reducing calories and adding more protein.

Final Thoughts

This Ina Garten Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe is warm, easy and full of flavor. It is perfect for busy nights and family meals.

With simple steps and flexible ingredients, anyone can make it. Give it a try and enjoy a cozy, tasty dish at home!