Shredded Chicken Nacho Casserole

Name: Shredded Chicken Nacho Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 6.0
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 1 bag tortilla chips; 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup salsa; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 teaspoon taco seasoning; 2 green onions, sliced; 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Highlighted under: Comfort Kitchen

I absolutely love making Shredded Chicken Nacho Casserole for a family gathering or movie night! It’s a fantastic way to combine my favorite Mexican flavors into one dish, and it's incredibly easy to prepare. The layers of cheesy goodness with tender, shredded chicken, crispy tortilla chips, and fresh toppings create an irresistible meal. Plus, it comes together in no time, allowing me to enjoy precious moments with my loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Phoebe Turner

Last updated on 2026-02-23T21:29:37.042Z

Every time I prepare this casserole, I think of the fun family gatherings we've had. Once, I experimented with adding some black beans for extra protein and fiber, and the result was surprisingly delicious! The combination of zesty chicken and creamy cheese was a hit, and I couldn't keep it on the table for long.

I love serving it with an array of toppings, letting everyone customize their plate. It’s these little tweaks that really elevate the dish, turning a simple meal into something memorable - plus, it always impresses my guests!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Layers of creamy cheese and seasoned chicken bring comfort and joy.
A perfect blend of textures with crispy chips and soft casserole.
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Perfecting the Chicken Mixture

The chicken mixture is the heart of the Shredded Chicken Nacho Casserole. Opting for rotisserie chicken saves time, providing tender, flavorful meat without the need for additional cooking. Ensure you shred the chicken finely for even distribution throughout the dish. If you're preparing your own chicken, poach or slow-cook it with a bit of broth and taco seasoning for added flavor, then shred it as it cools. This simple step enhances the taste and moisture in every bite.

When mixing the chicken with black beans and salsa, pay attention to the consistency. You want a mixture that is moist but not overly wet, as too much liquid can lead to soggy chips. If the mixture seems too wet, add a bit more shredded cheese to absorb excess moisture, while still adding creaminess. This will also contribute to the cheesy texture you want in the final bake.

Layering for Success

Layering is crucial in achieving the ideal texture contrast in your casserole. Start with half the tortilla chips to create a sturdy base; they soak up some of the moisture from the chicken mixture while retaining crispiness. For those who prefer a little crunch, you can even lightly toast the tortilla chips beforehand. Spread them out evenly to prevent clumping and ensure each piece gets its fair share of chicken and cheese.

When layering the chicken mixture, be generous but also strategic. Spread it across the chips without packing it down, allowing steam and heat to reach every layer. Sprinkle the remaining cheese liberally; it will melt and form a delicious crust over the top. For extra flavor, try mixing in some pepper jack cheese to the top layer for a kick, balancing out the richness beautifully.

Garnishing and Serving Tips

After baking, let the casserole rest for about 5-10 minutes. This will help it set a little, making it easier to serve without falling apart. During this time, warm your garnishes, like sour cream, which can enhance the overall flavor. If you want to elevate your dish, consider adding sliced jalapeños for a hint of heat or diced tomatoes for extra freshness.

Serving your casserole with a side of guacamole or a zesty lime wedge can also elevate your meal. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to three days, reheating in the oven for the best texture. For meal prep, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead, covering it tightly before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it goes in cold from the fridge!

Ingredients

Gather the ingredients for your casserole!

Casserole Ingredients

2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 bag tortilla chips
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup salsa
1/2 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon taco seasoning
2 green onions, sliced
1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let's start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious casserole.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the Chicken Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, salsa, taco seasoning, and half of the cheese. Mix well until all the ingredients are incorporated.

Layer the Casserole

In a 9x13 inch baking dish, start by layering half of the tortilla chips, followed by the chicken mixture. Top with the remaining chips and the rest of the cheese.

Bake the Casserole

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Add Toppings

Once baked, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes before adding garnishes like sour cream, green onions, and cilantro.

Enjoy your Shredded Chicken Nacho Casserole hot and fresh!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider using rotisserie chicken or adding jalapeños for some heat!

Make-Ahead Tips

Preparing the Shredded Chicken Nacho Casserole in advance is a fantastic idea for busy weeknights. You can fully assemble the casserole up to a day ahead, covering it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil before refrigerating. This allows the flavors to meld while saving you precious time on the day you plan to serve it. Just be aware that the longer it sits, the more the chips will absorb moisture, so if you prefer extra crunch, consider adding fresh tortilla chips on top right before baking.

If you're looking to freeze the casserole, assemble it in a freezer-safe dish without baking. Wrap it tightly with foil and store it for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake it directly from cold, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it heats through evenly. This way, you always have a comforting meal ready at your fingertips.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feeding a crowd or adjusting for dietary preferences can easily be managed with ingredient swaps. If you're aiming for a healthier option, you might consider using baked tortilla chips or making your own with corn tortillas seasoned and baked until crispy. For a vegetarian version, substitute the shredded chicken with sautéed mushrooms or jackfruit seasoned similarly with taco spices; this adds both texture and flavor.

If you're sensitive to dairy, opt for vegan cheese alternatives that melt well or increase the amount of sour cream by using a dairy-free version. Additionally, for those focusing on lower carbs, cauliflower rice can be used instead of chips for a similar layered effect, combining the casserole's comforting texture while also fitting into a keto or low-carb diet.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken mixture and layer the casserole in advance, then refrigerate it. Bake it when ready to serve.

→ Can I substitute any ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap the cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack or add vegetables like bell peppers or corn.

→ How can I make it spicier?

You can add diced jalapeños or use a spicier salsa to kick up the heat!

→ Is this casserole gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free tortilla chips and beans, this casserole can easily be made gluten-free!