Description
A hearty and flavorful Chicken Tortilla Casserole that combines tender shredded chicken, black beans, corn, and a zesty mix of spices, topped with crunchy tortilla chips and melted cheese. This easy 30-minute skillet casserole is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner with Mexican-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ¾ cup chopped onion
- 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Spices
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ¾ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Liquids & Sauces
- 1 ¾ cups low sodium chicken broth (one 14.5 ounce can)
- 1 cup salsa
Proteins & Canned Goods
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup frozen or canned corn (drained if canned)
- 15 ounce can black beans (rinsed and drained)
Others
- 6 ounces crumbled tortilla chips (about 4 cups), divided
- 1 ½ cups shredded Monterey Jack and/or cheddar cheese, divided
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté vegetables and spices: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and bell pepper and cook, stirring often, until softened, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper, stirring for 30 seconds to release aromatic flavors.
- Simmer casserole mixture: Stir in the low sodium chicken broth and salsa. Add the cooked shredded chicken, corn, black beans, and half of the crumbled tortilla chips. Mix well, then cover the skillet, reduce heat to low, and let simmer gently for 8 to 10 minutes. Stir occasionally until most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Add cheese and remaining chips: Remove the pan from heat and stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheese. Then add the remaining tortilla chips, folding them in lightly so some remain on top. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese evenly over the casserole.
- Rest and garnish: Cover the casserole and let it rest for a few minutes off the heat to allow the cheese to melt completely. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving for a bright, fresh flavor.
Notes
- You can swap Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese for your preferred melting cheese.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to control the spiciness level.
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken to simplify prep time.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with extra beans or a plant-based protein and use vegetable broth.
- Serve with sour cream or avocado slices for extra creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
