Shredded Chicken Nacho Casserole

Name: Shredded Chicken Nacho Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 3 cups shredded cooked chicken; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 cup salsa; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and mozzarella blend); 4 cups tortilla chips; 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; Jalapeños (optional, for topping)

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Meals

I love making Shredded Chicken Nacho Casserole when I'm in the mood for comfort food that pleases the whole family. This dish combines tender chicken, flavorful spices, and gooey cheese all layered over crispy tortilla chips. It's perfect for a casual dinner or a game day gathering. Plus, the best part is how quickly it comes together—dinner is ready in no time, making it a favorite in my household. You'll be surprised at how much joy a simple casserole can bring!

Created by

Summer Blake

Last updated on 2026-02-27T23:54:35.089Z

When I first tried making Shredded Chicken Nacho Casserole, I wanted to create a dish that balanced the crunch of tortilla chips with the savory richness of chicken and cheese. Experimenting with different spices led me to a perfect blend that brings a satisfying kick without overpowering the other flavors. Using rotisserie chicken cuts down on time, and shredding it allows it to soak up the sauce beautifully.

One tip I've learned is to layer your ingredients strategically—place some cheese beneath the tortilla chips to prevent sogginess while ensuring that each bite is cheesy and delicious. This little trick keeps the texture just right and makes every mouthful a delightful experience!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Savory and spicy chicken paired with melted cheese
Crunchy tortilla chips for the perfect texture contrast
Easy to prepare and great for leftovers

The Role of Ingredients

In Shredded Chicken Nacho Casserole, each ingredient plays a pivotal role in creating a mouthwatering dish. The shredded chicken provides not only protein but also serves as a neutral base that soaks up the vibrant flavors of the taco seasoning and salsa. Using a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheese ensures a rich taste while delivering that coveted stretchy melt that binds the layers together, enhancing both texture and flavor in every bite.

Tortilla chips form the crispy foundation of this casserole, providing a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken and creamy cheese. Opt for thicker chips to withstand the casserole’s moisture without becoming overly soggy. If you're gluten-intolerant, look for gluten-free tortilla chips to ensure everyone can enjoy this dish without worry.

Layering Technique

Layering is key to a successful nacho casserole. Begin with a solid base of chips to prevent the bottom layer from becoming too soggy. When layering, be sure to spread the chicken mixture evenly over the chips to guarantee that every bite is filled with a balanced mix of flavors. This also helps in maintaining structure, so you don’t end up with a disheveled casserole when serving.

I recommend using a 9x13 inch baking dish for even cooking and optimal layering. If you want to make a larger batch, simply scale up the ingredients and use two baking dishes. Just ensure that the cooking time is adjusted to account for the additional layers and ingredients.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, Shredded Chicken Nacho Casserole can be covered tightly with foil and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover the dish with foil to retain moisture and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. If the cheese has firmed up, a splash of salsa or a bit of broth can help revive its gooeyness.

For longer storage, this casserole is freezer-friendly as well. Prepare the casserole as directed but do not bake it. Instead, cover tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, freezing it for up to 2 months. To bake from frozen, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, removing the foil in the last 10 minutes for a bubbly finish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this tasty casserole:

Ingredients

3 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 packet taco seasoning
1 cup salsa
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and mozzarella blend)
4 cups tortilla chips
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Jalapeños (optional, for topping)

Make sure everything is prepared before you start layering! It will make the process go smoothly.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your amazing casserole:

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Combine Chicken and Seasoning

In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, taco seasoning, and salsa until well combined.

Layer the Casserole

In a greased baking dish, layer half of the tortilla chips on the bottom. Spread half of the chicken mixture over the chips, sprinkle with 1 cup of cheese, and add half of the black beans.

Repeat Layers

Repeat the layering process with the remaining chips, chicken mixture, beans, and top with the remaining cheese.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Top with sour cream, cilantro, and jalapeños if desired before serving.

Enjoy your delicious nacho casserole with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For an added kick, consider incorporating diced green chilies into the chicken mixture. They add extra heat and flavor. Also, feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite toppings!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Shredded Chicken Nacho Casserole, consider serving it with a side of guacamole or fresh pico de gallo. The coolness of the toppings can balance the warm, cheesy casserole, adding both freshness and color to your presentation. You might also enjoy a dollop of jalapeño-infused cream for those who like an extra kick.

Pair this dish with a simple side salad dressed with lime vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the casserole. The acidity from the dressing will enhance the dish’s overall flavors, making for a refreshing contrast that’s sure to please.

Creative Variations

While the classic combo is unbeatable, feel free to get creative with ingredients! You can add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and onions to the chicken mixture for extra flavor and nutrition. Alternatively, swap out black beans for pinto or kidney beans, or even use refried beans for a creamier texture.

For a protein boost, consider adding cooked chorizo or ground turkey to the chicken mixture before layering. This not only enhances the dish's savory flavors but can also give a hearty texture that complements the nachos beautifully. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to account for the chorizo’s spice.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find the bottom layers of your casserole too soggy, one trick is to lightly toast the tortilla chips in the oven for a few minutes before assembling the casserole. This pre-baking step can help them retain their crunch even when topped with moist ingredients.

In the event that the cheese doesn't melt as expected, ensure that you’ve used a good mix of cheese varieties, as some melt better than others. If you're using non-dairy cheese, check that it is designed for melting to avoid disappointment during baking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake.

→ What can I substitute for chicken?

You can use shredded beef or a plant-based protein if you're looking for a vegetarian option.

→ Is it possible to freeze the casserole?

Absolutely! Just make sure to wrap it tightly before freezing. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.

→ How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.