Heavenly Chili Chicken Casserole Recipe for Cozy Evenings

Weeknight dinners demand quick, satisfying solutions that pack a flavorful punch, and this chili chicken casserole recipe delivers precisely that.

Spicy, cheesy layers combine to create a mouthwatering main dish that everyone craves.

The comforting blend of tender chicken and zesty chili brings warmth to your dinner table.

Packed with robust ingredients and simple preparation, this casserole becomes an instant family favorite.

Each bite promises a delightful mix of textures and bold southwestern-inspired flavors.

Cheese lovers and spice enthusiasts will particularly appreciate this hearty meal.

Gather your ingredients and get ready to transform an ordinary evening into a delicious culinary adventure.

Chili Chicken Casserole: Comfort Food with a Spicy Kick

• A one-dish wonder that transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal without complicated cooking techniques.
• Loaded with protein from chicken, fiber-rich beans, and vibrant vegetables, this casserole delivers a balanced, wholesome dinner that keeps everyone satisfied.
• Easily adapt the recipe by swapping ingredients or adjusting spices to match your family's taste preferences, making it a versatile go-to meal for any mood.
• Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or casual dinners, this chili chicken casserole brings everyone together with its hearty, comforting appeal.

Shopping List for Chili Chicken Casserole Bliss

• Shredded Chicken: The main protein source that provides hearty texture and flavor to the casserole.

• Black Beans, Corn, Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies, Diced Bell Peppers, Diced Red Onion: These vegetables add nutrition, color, and a Southwest-inspired flavor profile to the dish.

• Cheddar Cheese: Provides a rich, melty topping that adds creamy texture and sharp flavor.
• Sour Cream: Offers a cool, tangy element that balances the spicy and savory ingredients.
• Chili Powder, Cumin, Garlic Powder, Salt, Pepper: These seasonings create a robust and aromatic flavor foundation for the casserole.

• Cilantro, Avocado, Additional Sour Cream: These toppings provide fresh and complementary finishing touches to the dish.

Tools to Make Casserole Night Effortless

• Large Mixing Bowl: Perfect for combining all the delicious ingredients and mixing them evenly.
• 9×13-inch Baking Dish: Essential for layering and baking your casserole to cheesy perfection.
• Measuring Cups: Helps you accurately measure cheese, sour cream, and other ingredients.
• Cheese Grater: Useful if you're grating fresh cheddar cheese for maximum flavor.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Great for stirring and spreading ingredients smoothly in the dish.
• Sharp Knife: Needed for chopping vegetables and optional toppings like cilantro and avocado.

Layering and Baking the Ultimate Chili Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Fire up your oven to a cozy 350F (175C).

Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a quick spray or butter rub to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create The Flavor Base

• Shredded chicken
• Black beans
• Corn kernels
• Diced tomatoes with green chilies
• Chopped bell peppers
• Diced red onion

Mix everything together until all ingredients are dancing together.

Step 3: Spice It Up

• Chili powder
• Cumin
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Stir the spices until they coat every morsel evenly.

Step 4: Build The First Layer

Pour half of your chicken and veggie mixture into the prepared baking dish.

Spread it out smoothly like a warm blanket.

Step 5: Add Creamy Goodness

Shower the first layer with a generous handful of cheddar cheese.

Follow up with a creamy layer of sour cream, making sure it covers everything deliciously.

Step 6: Create The Second Layer

Repeat the process by adding the remaining chicken and vegetable mixture over the cheesy, creamy base.

Smooth it out like you’re making a delectable landscape.

Step 7: Crown With Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top, creating a golden, melty crown.

Step 8: Bake And Serve

Slide the casserole into the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until the cheese turns bubbly and golden brown.

Let it rest for a few minutes after removing from the oven.

For extra pizzazz, top with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or an extra dollop of sour cream.

Casserole Tips for Extra Creaminess and Flavor

• Roast your bell peppers and onions before mixing into the casserole to deepen and caramelize their natural sweetness.
• Adjust chili powder and add jalapeños or hot sauce to increase heat according to your personal preference and tolerance.
• Prepare this casserole ahead of time and refrigerate overnight, allowing flavors to meld and intensify before baking.
• Replace chicken with ground turkey, black beans, or shredded beef for variety and different nutritional profiles.
• Substitute dairy cheese with plant-based alternatives like nutritional yeast or vegan cheese to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Ways to Mix Up Your Casserole for Different Crowds

• Vegetarian Bean Swap: Replace chicken with extra firm tofu or additional black beans for a meat-free protein-packed version.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Base: Substitute corn and beans with riced cauliflower for a keto-friendly alternative that reduces carbohydrate content.
• Dairy-Free Modification: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives like nutritional yeast or cashew cheese, and replace sour cream with coconut yogurt for lactose-intolerant individuals.
• Mediterranean Herb Variation: Incorporate oregano, basil, and feta cheese to transform the traditional chili chicken casserole into a Mediterranean-inspired dish with Greek flavors.

Serving Ideas to Pair with Your Chili Chicken Bake

• Fresh Fiesta Sidekicks: Crisp green salad with zesty lime vinaigrette perfectly complements the rich casserole flavors.
• Hearty Bread Companions: Warm cornbread or toasted garlic bread provide delightful texture and help soak up the delicious sauce.
• Southwest Plate Partners: Mexican rice or quinoa create a complete meal that enhances the chili chicken's robust spices.
• Cool Creamy Contrast: Extra sour cream or fresh guacamole add refreshing coolness to balance the warm, spicy casserole.

Storing Casserole for Next-Day Enjoyment

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping the casserole fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Transfer cooled casserole to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, ensuring tight sealing to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.
• Preheat oven to 350F, place casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying, and warm for 15-20 minutes until heated completely through.

FAQs

• What type of chicken works best for this casserole?

Shredded chicken is ideal. You can use rotisserie chicken, leftover roasted chicken, or quickly boil and shred chicken breasts for the recipe.

• Can I make this casserole spicier?

Yes, you can increase the heat by adding diced jalapeños, using hot chili powder, or incorporating a splash of hot sauce directly into the mixture for extra kick.

• Is this recipe gluten-free?

The current recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check individual ingredient labels to ensure no hidden gluten, especially in packaged items like canned beans or tomatoes.

• How can I make this dish healthier?

Substitute full-fat cheese with low-fat cheese, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini to increase nutritional value.

Chili Chicken Casserole Recipe

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4.5 from 39 reviews

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Hearty chili chicken casserole delivers comfort on a plate with layers of spicy, cheesy goodness. Midwestern home cooking shines through this simple, satisfying meal that draws families together around the dinner table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 4 cups cooked and shredded chicken

Vegetables and Beans:

• 1 can (15 ounces / 425 grams) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces / 425 grams) corn kernels, drained
• 1 can (10 ounces / 283 grams) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
• 1/2 cup diced red onion

Dairy and Seasonings:

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups sour cream
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Toppings:

• Chopped cilantro
• Diced avocado
• Sour cream

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish with a light grease coating.
2. In a spacious mixing bowl, thoroughly combine shredded chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, bell peppers, and red onion until ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Incorporate chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper into the mixture, stirring to ensure complete seasoning coverage.
4. Create the first layer by spreading half of the chicken-vegetable mixture across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, maintaining an even surface.
5. Generously sprinkle one cup of cheddar cheese over the initial layer, followed by an even spread of sour cream across the cheese.
6. Construct the second layer by carefully distributing the remaining chicken-vegetable mixture over the cheese and sour cream, ensuring complete coverage.
7. Crown the casserole with the remaining cup of cheddar cheese, creating a complete top layer.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until the cheese transforms into a bubbling, golden-brown surface.
9. Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. Enhance individual portions with optional garnishes like fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or an extra dollop of sour cream.

Notes

• Swap chicken for plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh to create a delicious vegetarian version that maintains the dish’s hearty texture and flavor profile.
• Use low-fat cheese and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream to reduce calories while keeping the creamy consistency and tangy taste.
• Enhance meal prep efficiency by cooking chicken and chopping vegetables in advance, allowing quick assembly when you’re ready to bake the casserole.
• Adjust spice levels by increasing or decreasing chili powder and cumin to match personal heat preferences without compromising the overall taste balance.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 600
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 18 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 8 g
• Protein: 45 g
• Cholesterol: 150 mg