Shredded Chicken Nacho Casserole

Name: Shredded Chicken Nacho Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked shredded chicken; 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained; 2 cups tortilla chips; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup salsa; 1 jalapeño, sliced; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup chopped green onions; Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Warm Comfort Food Ideas

I absolutely love making Shredded Chicken Nacho Casserole for my family on game days or for a cozy dinner. The layers of tortilla chips, tender shredded chicken, and gooey cheese come together in a delightful dish that everyone can enjoy. It’s incredibly satisfying to have a single casserole that combines all our favorite nacho toppings. Plus, it’s a breeze to prepare, allowing me to spend more time with my loved ones while the oven does all the hard work.

Created by

Cecilia Grant

Last updated on 2026-02-27T21:41:35.590Z

When I first decided to make Shredded Chicken Nacho Casserole, I knew I wanted to create something that would bring everyone together. The combination of flavors and textures is just unbeatable. I often use leftover rotisserie chicken, which makes the prep even faster. The secret ingredient is definitely the addition of black beans, which adds protein and fiber while enhancing the overall taste.

Each bite is a delicious melding of cheesy goodness and spicy notes, thanks to the jalapeños. I recommend garnishing the casserole with fresh cilantro and avocado for a burst of freshness. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a family favorite!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Simple yet flavorful layers that satisfy everyone’s cravings
Perfect for easy weeknight dinners or party gatherings
Quick preparation with minimal cleanup - just one dish!

Understanding the Layers

Each layer in the Shredded Chicken Nacho Casserole not only adds flavor but contributes to the overall texture of the dish. The tortilla chips provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender shredded chicken and creamy cheese. When layering, ensure the chips aren't overlapping too much; an even layer will give you a better distribution of flavors in every bite. This balance is key to a successful casserole that is both hearty and enjoyable.

Using shredded chicken is a game changer in this dish. It absorbs the taste of the salsa and blends wonderfully with the melting cheese. If you're short on time, you can use a store-bought rotisserie chicken for convenience. Just make sure to shred it finely enough to let it mingle well with other ingredients, creating a cohesive flavor throughout the casserole.

Customizing the Recipe

One of the great things about this casserole is its versatility. You can easily tailor it to fit your family's taste preferences or dietary needs. For a spicier kick, consider adding diced green chilies or swapping the jalapeño for a hotter pepper, such as serrano. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, and replace the beans with additional veggies or a plant-based protein.

Make this recipe gluten-free by using corn tortilla chips or making your own from gluten-free tortillas. Additionally, if you're looking for healthier options, you can swap sour cream for Greek yogurt; it will still lend creaminess while boosting the nutrition profile. Just be mindful that some substitutions can change the final flavor and texture, so adjust your expectations accordingly.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're preparing for a busy week, this casserole makes an excellent make-ahead meal. You can assemble all the layers in advance and cover them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Just store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together, leading to a more flavorful dish when you finally bake it.

For leftovers, store any uneaten casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheating is simple—just pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If you want to freeze it, I recommend storing individual portions in freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to maintain the best texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious casserole:

Ingredients

3 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
2 cups tortilla chips
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup salsa
1 jalapeño, sliced
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup chopped green onions
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

With these ingredients, you will be ready to assemble your casserole!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your Shredded Chicken Nacho Casserole:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Layer the Ingredients

In a large casserole dish, spread half of the tortilla chips evenly on the bottom. Layer half of the shredded chicken over the chips, followed by half of the black beans, then half of the salsa. Sprinkle 1 cup of cheddar cheese on top.

Repeat the Layers

Repeat the layering process with the remaining chips, chicken, beans, salsa, and cheese. Top with sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.

Bake in the Oven

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Top with dollops of sour cream, chopped green onions, and cilantro, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Enjoy this comforting dish with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

Make sure to adjust the spice level according to your preference. You can add more jalapeños or serve with spicy salsa for those who like it hot.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Shredded Chicken Nacho Casserole when serving, consider adding fresh toppings like diced avocados or pico de gallo. These toppings introduce fresh flavors and vibrant colors that enhance the dish's visual appeal. A sprinkle of fresh lime juice just before serving can also brighten up the flavors remarkably, making the casserole even more delightful.

Serve it with a side of tortilla or corn chips for additional crunch and texture. You can also pair it with a simple green salad to balance the richness of the casserole or a side of guacamole for a creamy contrast. Entertaining? This casserole can be the star of a buffet-style spread, encouraging guests to customize their portions with their favorite toppings.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your cheese isn’t melting properly, it may be due to using pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents. Opt for freshly shredded cheese for a superior melt. Additionally, if your casserole ends up too dry, consider adding a little more salsa or even some broth before baking; this will keep the ingredients moist and flavorful.

Should your casserole bubble up and overflow during baking, it might have been overfilled with layers. In the future, keep the layers a little more modest, or place a baking sheet under the casserole dish to catch any spills. I’ve learned this the hard way, and it saves a lot of cleanup!

Variations to Explore

Introduced different cuisines into your casserole by incorporating ingredients from other cultures. For a Mexican-inspired twist, try using corn tortillas instead of chips and topping with crema and avocado. For a Tex-Mex flavor, consider adding taco seasoning to the chicken and beans before layering them, giving the dish an unexpected depth of flavor.

You can also experiment with cheese combinations—try mixing pepper jack for a kick, or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a different melt profile. Each change can significantly impact the overall taste of the dish, so feel free to get creative and make the recipe your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute the shredded chicken with ground beef, turkey, or even make it vegetarian by using beans and veggies.

→ How can I make this dish healthier?

Use low-fat cheese, whole grain tortilla chips, and add extra vegetables like bell peppers or corn for added nutrition.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time. Just cover it and refrigerate until you're ready to bake.

→ What can I serve with the casserole?

It's great on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or some fresh guacamole for a complete meal.