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heartwarming chicken tortilla casserole

Heartwarming Chicken Tortilla Casserole

This comforting Southwestern-inspired casserole combines tender chicken, melty cheese, and crispy tortilla strips for a satisfying family meal. With the perfect balance of textures and flavors, this simple dish delivers homemade taste with minimal effort.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 (7 ounce) can corn drained
  • 1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese shredded
  • 1/2 cup black beans canned, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (17 ounce) package fully cooked chicken breasts with gravy such as Hormel
  • 1/2 cup quick-cooking rice such as Minute Rice
  • 1 (16 ounce) jar salsa mild, medium or hot
  • 1/2 cup cheddar cheese shredded
  • 3-4 10-inch flour tortillas cut into strips

Equipment

  • Large casserole dish
  • Knife
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cut the fully cooked chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
  3. In a large casserole dish, combine the chicken pieces, salsa, drained corn, and rinsed black beans.
  4. Add the quick-cooking rice and mix well to combine.
  5. Stir in both the shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses, distributing evenly throughout the mixture.
  6. Cut the flour tortillas into strips and arrange them over the top of the casserole mixture.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked, the mixture is bubbling, and the tortilla strips are golden and crispy.
  8. Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For a spicier version, add a diced jalapeño or use hot salsa. You can easily substitute rotisserie chicken or leftover turkey for the packaged chicken. For a healthier option, use whole wheat tortillas and brown rice (add 5 minutes to the cooking time). This casserole reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep—store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serve with a crisp green salad, fresh guacamole, or Mexican street corn for a complete meal.