Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is perfect for this casserole. It saves time and adds wonderful flavor. Just remove the skin and shred the meat with two forks before using. One rotisserie chicken typically provides more than enough meat for this recipe, so you'll likely have extra for another meal.

Is there a gluten-free version of this casserole?

Yes, simply substitute your favorite gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour. The texture may be slightly different, but the flavor will be just as delicious. Make sure your other ingredients, like the seasoning blends and canned chiles, are also certified gluten-free if you're cooking for someone with celiac disease.

Can I prepare this casserole the night before?

Definitely! This casserole is perfect for make-ahead meals. Prepare everything up to Step 3, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. When you're ready to bake, remove it from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking to take the chill off, then proceed with baking as directed, possibly adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What can I substitute for the green chiles if I don't have any?

If you don't have canned green chiles, you can substitute a diced fresh poblano pepper (sautéed until soft), a small amount of diced jalapeño (for more heat), or even a few tablespoons of your favorite salsa. Each will change the flavor profile slightly but will still provide that wonderful Mexican-inspired taste.

Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe

Description

This Mexican Chicken Casserole is a quick and easy dish bursting with Tex-Mex flavors. Made with tender shredded chicken, sweet corn, zesty green chiles, and topped with a delicious cheesy crust, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner for the whole family. Serve it with salsa, sour cream, or Greek yogurt for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Casserole Base

1 cup shredded cooked chicken (or turkey)
1 cup fresh corn (or thawed frozen corn)
1 (4-ounce) can chopped green chiles, drained
Kosher salt, to taste
Fresh ground pepper, to taste

Batter Mixture

2 large eggs, beaten
2/3 cup milk (skim, 2%, or whole)
3/4 cup unbleached all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Topping

3/4 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese

Serving Suggestions

Salsa
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Chopped cilantro

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Instructions

Preheat and Prepare the Dish
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9-inch pie plate with cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking.
Mix the Casserole Base
In a medium mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, corn, and chopped green chiles. Season with a pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground pepper. Spread this mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared pie plate.
Prepare the Batter Mixture
In the same mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, flour, cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder until just combined (do not overmix). Adjust with additional salt and pepper as needed. Pour the batter mixture evenly over the chicken mixture. Use a fork to poke the surface gently, allowing the egg mixture to seep through.
Bake the Casserole
Bake the dish uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is set and lightly golden. Remove from the oven.
Add the Cheese Topping
Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese over the baked casserole. Place it back in the oven for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly.
Serve and Garnish
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve it warm with salsa, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for added flavor.

Notes

Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour mix as a substitute for the all-purpose flour.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole base in advance and store it in the fridge overnight before baking.
Customize: Add black beans or diced bell peppers for extra texture and flavor.
Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave or oven.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion
Calories: 270
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 420mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 18g
Cholesterol: 105mg