Shredded Chicken Mexican Casserole

Name: Shredded Chicken Mexican Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen); 2 cups salsa; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); 6 small flour or corn tortillas; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Traditional World Food Inspiration

I love making Shredded Chicken Mexican Casserole for a cozy dinner with my family. The combination of tender chicken, zesty salsa, and gooey cheese creates a delicious comfort meal that everyone enjoys. What makes this dish special is how easily it comes together, allowing for a quick prep without sacrificing flavor. I often prepare it on busy weeknights, and it never fails to satisfy our cravings for something hearty and fulfilling. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use any leftover chicken!

Created by

Victoria Hall

Last updated on 2026-02-27T13:37:37.888Z

When I first tried making a Mexican casserole, I was surprised by how versatile it could be. I experimented with different ingredients and settled on shredded chicken mixed with black beans, corn, and my favorite salsa, topped with cheese. This combo not only bursts with flavor but also ensures a fulfilling meal, perfect for any night of the week.

The key to a perfect casserole is layering. I found that layering the ingredients provides a better distribution of flavors and ensures that every bite is as delicious as the last. Always use a good quality salsa to enhance the overall taste and don’t skimp on the cheese—it’s the glue that holds everything together!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bursting with vibrant Mexican flavors
A one-dish meal that simplifies cleanup
Comfort food that warms the heart
Easily customizable for individual tastes

Why Shredded Chicken?

Shredded chicken is the backbone of this casserole. Its tenderness absorbs the zesty salsa and spices, creating a rich flavor profile that binds the dish together. When choosing chicken, consider using rotisserie chicken for convenience. It not only saves time but also adds a smoky depth enhancing the overall taste. If you prefer, poaching chicken breasts in a seasoned broth can yield equally flavorful results. Just be sure to shred it finely to ensure even distribution throughout the casserole.

In addition to its flavorful role, shredded chicken provides a great source of protein, making this meal both satisfying and nutritious. Each bite delivers a comforting heartiness that pairs beautifully with the crisp texture of the tortillas. For a healthier variation, you can substitute some of the chicken with shredded zucchini or cauliflower, retaining some of the texture while cutting down on calories.

Mastering the Layers

Layering is essential for achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures in this casserole. Start with a generous layer of the chicken, beans, and corn mixture to create a moist base for the tortillas. If you find the mixture too thick, add a splash of broth or additional salsa to maintain some moisture during baking. Ensuring the tortillas are covered adequately prevents them from drying out while creating that deliciously gooey top layer with melted cheese.

When layering, I recommend using three tortillas per layer, but feel free to adjust based on your preference for tortilla thickness. For an extra crunch, consider lightly toasting the tortillas on a skillet before layering; this can enhance their flavor and prevent sogginess from the sauces. As you build the layers, aim for a consistent distribution of ingredients to ensure every slice contains a harmonious mix of chicken, cheese, and sauce.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious casserole:

Ingredients

2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
2 cups salsa
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
6 small flour or corn tortillas
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)

Ensure all ingredients are prepped and ready to create a wonderful meal.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to put together your casserole:

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, combine shredded chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Layer the Ingredients

Start by spreading a thin layer of the chicken mixture in the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Place three tortillas over the mixture, then add more chicken mixture. Repeat layers, finishing with a layer of tortillas on top.

Top with Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining cheese generously over the top layer of tortillas.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes, then garnish with chopped cilantro if desired. Slice and serve warm!

This casserole is hearty and filling, making it perfect for any occasion.

Pro Tips

For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or use spicy salsa. This casserole can be made ahead of time and frozen, making it a convenient meal prep option.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This casserole is perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just remember to cover it tightly with foil to prevent it from drying out. If you're planning to freeze it, assemble the casserole but leave the cheese off the top—add that just before baking. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking, and remember that baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven.

Reheating leftovers is a breeze. If you have any remaining casserole, simply cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out and heat it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium power in short bursts, making sure to stir in between for even heating.

Flavor Variations

This Shredded Chicken Mexican Casserole is incredibly versatile, allowing for numerous flavor variations. To spice things up, consider adding diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the mixture for added heat. You could also vary the cheese types; pepper jack cheese will add a creamy, spicy flavor that beautifully complements the Mexican theme. If you're feeling adventurous, experiment with different salsas—fruit salsas, like mango or pineapple, can introduce a delightful sweetness and contrast.

Don’t hesitate to customize the beans used in this recipe. Black beans are popular, but pinto or refried beans can add a different texture and flavor profile. For a vegetarian version, simply replace the chicken with extra beans and vegetables. You can also incorporate sautéed bell peppers or onions for added depth. This flexibility makes it a fun recipe to adapt based on available ingredients or personal preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use raw chicken instead?

Yes, just make sure to cook it thoroughly before shredding. You can also use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.

→ Can this be made vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with more beans or add vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.

→ How long does it last in the fridge?

The casserole can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.