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Easy Monterey Chicken Casserole

Chicken twist on traditional nachos. It is very easy to change up spices per taste. This is a great way to use leftover rotisserie chicken. Serve with salsa or fresh tomatoes and lettuce if desired.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course lunch/dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 10 people
Calories 6513.6 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large Skillet
  • 1 9x13 inch Baking Pan
  • 1 Aluminum Foil
  • 1 Chef's knife
  • 1 Cutting Board

Ingredients
  

Main

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 pounds diced boneless chicken
  • ½ cup chopped onion
  • 1 10.5 ounce can condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 1 7 ounce can chopped green chile peppers
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • ¼ cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon ground coriander Optional
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper Optional
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 14.5 ounce package tortilla chips, or as needed
  • 3 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
  • Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and saute for about 5 minutes. Add onion and saute until softened, another 5 minutes. Stir in condensed soup, chile peppers, sour cream, milk, cumin, chili powder, coriander, cayenne pepper, and pepper flakes.
  • Transfer 1/2 of the chicken mixture into a 9x13-inch pan. Layer with 1/2 of the tortilla chips and 1/2 of the Monterey Jack cheese. Repeat layers once more and cover with aluminum foil.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for 10 more minutes.

Notes

For optimal flavor and texture, ensure the chicken is diced evenly and cooked until just browned before adding other ingredients; this builds a foundational layer of flavor. If using pre-cooked chicken, simply warm it through with the onions. Prevent soggy tortilla chips by using a sturdy, thicker variety or lightly toasting them before layering. Alternatively, add about half of the chips in the last 15 minutes of baking, uncovered, for a crispier top layer. Consider incorporating fresh elements like minced garlic with the onion, or a pinch of smoked paprika for depth. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or diced avocado after baking would elevate presentation and freshness. Adjust spice levels to personal preference; a touch more cayenne or a dash of hot sauce in the chicken mixture can add a welcome kick.