Name: Mexican Chicken Dorito Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs cooked and shredded chicken; 1 teaspoon kosher salt ((if using table salt, use only ¾ teaspoon)); ½ teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 tablespoon onion powder; 1 tablespoon garlic powder; 15 oz can of diced tomatoes and green chilis ((also known as Rotel)); 11 oz bag of Doritos ((any flavor works, but Nacho is a favorite)); 1 cup sour cream; 4 oz cream cheese ((room temperature or microwave for 20 seconds)); 10.5 oz can of cream of chicken soup; 15 oz can of black beans ((drained and rinsed)); 15 oz can of corn ((shoepeg or sweet crisp corn works best)); 8 oz shredded Mexican cheese blend ((or any shredded cheddar)); 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; to taste Pico de gallo ((for garnish))

If you’re looking for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that combines the flavors of Mexican cuisine with the crunch of everyone’s favorite snack, then this Mexican Chicken Dorito Casserole is the answer. This hearty casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or even game day gatherings. Loaded with shredded chicken, creamy goodness, and, of course, Doritos, it’s a dish that brings comfort and joy to the table. Let’s dive into the delicious world of this flavorful casserole that has everyone coming back for seconds!

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This Mexican Chicken Dorito Casserole is not only packed with flavor, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a dish that feels like a celebration. The combination of spices, creamy textures, and the crunch of Doritos creates a perfect harmony that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it requires minimal prep time, making it a go-to recipe for busy families.

What’s in the Bowl

To create this delightful casserole, gather the following ingredients:

2 lbs cooked and shredded chicken
1 teaspoon kosher salt (if using table salt, use only ¾ teaspoon)
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon garlic powder
15 oz can of diced tomatoes and green chilis (also known as Rotel)
11 oz bag of Doritos (any flavor works, but Nacho is a favorite)
1 cup sour cream
4 oz cream cheese (room temperature or microwave for 20 seconds)
10.5 oz can of cream of chicken soup
15 oz can of black beans, drained and rinsed
15 oz can of corn (shoepeg or sweet crisp corn works best)
8 oz shredded Mexican cheese blend (or any shredded cheddar)
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Pico de gallo for garnish

Equipment at a Glance

Large mixing bowl – for combining all ingredients.
9×13 inch baking dish – perfect for the casserole.
Wooden spoon or spatula – for mixing and spreading the mixture.
Oven – to bake the casserole to perfection.
Microwave (optional) – for softening the cream cheese if needed.

Stepwise Method: Mexican Chicken Dorito Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole will bake evenly and turn out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, kosher salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, diced tomatoes and green chilis, sour cream, cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, black beans, corn, shredded cheese, cumin, and smoked paprika. Mix everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish

Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil. This will help prevent the casserole from sticking.

Step 4: Layer the Doritos

Spread half of the Doritos evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish. This adds a wonderful crunch to the base of the casserole.

Step 5: Add the Chicken Mixture

Spoon the chicken mixture over the layer of Doritos, spreading it evenly to cover the chips completely.

Step 6: Top with Remaining Doritos

Sprinkle the remaining Doritos on top of the chicken mixture, making sure to cover it evenly. This will create a delightful crunch once baked.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the Doritos are golden brown on top.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes. Garnish with pico de gallo for a fresh pop of flavor before serving. Enjoy this delightful dish with your family and friends!

Ingredient Flex Options

Chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken to save time.
Beans: Substitute black beans with pinto beans or kidney beans if preferred.
Corn: Frozen corn can replace canned corn for a fresher taste.
Cheese: Feel free to mix different cheese blends for varied flavors.
Doritos: Experiment with other flavors like Cool Ranch for a twist.

Easy-to-Miss Gotchas

Here are a few tips to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly:

Make sure the cream cheese is softened well to avoid lumps in the mixture.
Don’t skip the resting time after baking; it helps the casserole set better.
Be mindful of the salt content in canned ingredients, as they can vary greatly.
Adjust spice levels according to your taste, especially if serving to children.

How to Store & Reheat

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely and then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it before baking. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.

To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 25-30 minutes.
If reheating leftovers, place in the microwave or oven until warm, adding a splash of water if it appears dry.

Your Top Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it when you’re ready to serve!

What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a side salad, guacamole, or additional pico de gallo. Consider serving it with tortilla chips for extra crunch!

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the chicken with additional beans or a meat substitute and ensure that the cream of chicken soup is replaced with a vegetarian option.

How spicy is this casserole?

The level of spice can be adjusted based on your preference. The diced tomatoes and green chilis add a mild heat, but you can use spicy varieties or add jalapeños for more kick!

In Closing

This Mexican Chicken Dorito Casserole is sure to become a beloved favorite in your household. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re gathering family for dinner or hosting friends for a casual get-together, this dish is sure to impress. The combination of creamy, spicy, and crunchy elements creates a delightful experience that everyone will love. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a tasty meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!