The Pioneer Woman’s Zesty Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe

Comfort meets creativity in this delightful mexican chicken casserole that brings robust southwestern flavors right to your dinner table.

Layers of tender chicken, zesty spices, and melted cheese create a mouthwatering experience everyone will adore.

Home cooks appreciate how simple ingredients combine into something truly spectacular.

No fancy techniques or complicated steps stand between you and a delicious meal.

Each bite promises a perfect balance of creamy texture and bold seasonings.

Crispy tortillas add a satisfying crunch that elevates this classic dish from ordinary to extraordinary.

Serve this casserole and watch smiles spread around the table.

Pioneer Woman Mexican Chicken Casserole Keeps Things Easy

• Elevate Weeknight Dinners: A no-fuss, delicious Mexican-inspired chicken casserole that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal.
• Minimal Prep, Maximum Flavor: Requires just a few simple steps with straightforward ingredients, making it perfect for busy home cooks who want a satisfying dinner without complicated techniques.
• Family-Friendly Comfort Food: Combines creamy textures and hearty chicken with a crispy stuffing topping that appeals to both kids and adults, creating a crowd-pleasing dish everyone will enjoy.
• Quick Cooking Convenience: Ready in under an hour from start to finish, this casserole provides a speedy solution for hectic evenings when time is limited but deliciousness is non-negotiable.

Pioneer Woman’s Mexican Casserole Contents

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Tender meat that provides the main protein and flavor foundation for the casserole. Look for fresh, high-quality chicken with no discoloration.

• Cream of Chicken Soup: Creamy base that adds richness and helps bind the casserole. Choose a low-sodium version for better flavor control.
• Sour Cream: Adds tangy creaminess and helps create a smooth texture. Full-fat version provides the best consistency.
• Chicken Broth: Provides additional moisture and deepens the savory flavor. Opt for low-sodium or homemade broth for better taste.

• Stuffing Mix: Adds a crispy topping and additional flavor complexity. Any brand will work, but traditional herb-seasoned mix is recommended.
• Melted Butter: Helps create a golden, crispy topping and adds richness. Use unsalted butter for better seasoning control.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance overall flavor. Freshly ground black pepper provides the best taste.

Pioneer Woman Mexican Chicken Casserole Guide

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a cozy 350°F and grab a baking dish.

Give it a quick spray of cooking oil to prevent any sticky situations.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Nestle the chicken breasts into the greased baking dish.

Sprinkle some salt and pepper over them to wake up their flavor.

Step 3: Create the Stuffing Base

• Stuffing mix
• Melted butter
• Chicken broth

Stir everything together until it looks perfectly blended and moist.

Step 4: Layer the Creamy Goodness

Spread a generous layer of cream of chicken soup and sour cream directly over the seasoned chicken.

This will create a dreamy, rich foundation for your casserole.

Step 5: Add the Crispy Topping

Carefully distribute the prepared stuffing mixture across the top of the creamy chicken.

Make sure it’s evenly spread for maximum crunch and flavor.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven and let it bake for 40-45 minutes.

You’re looking for golden-brown stuffing and chicken that’s cooked through completely.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes after removing from the oven.

This helps the layers set and makes serving much easier.

Dig in and enjoy your comforting meal!

What Helps Pioneer Woman’s Chicken Bake Taste Authentic

• Use a fork to fluff and evenly distribute the stuffing mix for a perfectly crispy, golden-brown topping that adds delightful texture to every bite.
• Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil during the first 30 minutes of cooking to lock in moisture and ensure tender, juicy chicken breasts.
• Experiment with different cream soup varieties like cream of mushroom or add diced green chiles for a southwestern twist that elevates the dish's taste.
• Replace regular stuffing mix with gluten-free alternatives and use low-sodium chicken broth for a diet-friendly version that doesn't compromise on deliciousness.
• Use a meat thermometer to confirm chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally, guaranteeing safe and perfectly cooked protein every single time.

Pioneer Woman Mexican Chicken: Leftover Guide

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping the casserole fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
• Heat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.

Mexican Chicken Casserole Side Ideas

• Savor Southwestern Spice Companions: Refresh with zesty margaritas that complement the casserole's rich flavors.
• Enhance with Crunchy Sides: Serve crisp corn salsa or jalapeño coleslaw to add bright texture against the creamy chicken dish.
• Wine Pairing Perfection: Select a light, citrusy white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to cut through the casserole's hearty profile.
• Cool Down with Fresh Finish: Top with fresh cilantro and offer cool, tangy Mexican crema to balance the warm, comforting casserole.

Mexican Chicken Bake Inspired by Pioneer Woman

• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Replace traditional stuffing mix with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute sour cream with dairy-free yogurt alternative. Use coconut milk-based cream of chicken soup and plant-based butter for the stuffing mixture.
• Low-Carb Version: Replace stuffing mix with crushed pork rinds or almond flour. Use cauliflower rice as a base and add extra herbs for flavor enhancement.
• Vegetarian Transformation: Swap chicken with firm tofu or plant-based chicken substitute. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and add extra vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for nutritional boost.

FAQs

• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead of time. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, remove from the refrigerator and bake as directed.

• Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

It’s best to use thawed chicken breasts to ensure even cooking. If using frozen chicken, completely thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before preparing the recipe to prevent uneven cooking and potential food safety issues.

• How can I make this dish healthier?

Consider using low-fat cream of chicken soup, reduced-fat sour cream, and whole grain stuffing mix. You can also add extra vegetables like diced bell peppers or spinach to increase nutritional value.

• What type of stuffing mix works best?

Any brand of dry stuffing mix will work well. Chicken-flavored stuffing is recommended for this recipe as it complements the chicken and enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Pioneer Woman Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe

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4.8 from 10 reviews

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

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Description

Creamy, cheesy Mexican chicken casserole from the Pioneer Woman brings southwestern comfort to dinner tables. Layers of tender chicken, zesty spices, and melted cheese create a hearty meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Main Protein:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Base and Binding Ingredients:

• 1 box stuffing mix
• 1 can (10.5 ounces / 298 grams) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream

Liquid and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to a moderate temperature of 350°F and prepare a baking vessel with a light coating of cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Arrange chicken pieces in the prepared dish, sprinkling with seasoning to enhance the foundational flavor profile.
3. Create a savory stuffing mixture by combining dry stuffing granules with melted butter and rich chicken broth, ensuring a thorough and even blend.
4. Generously spread a creamy layer of condensed chicken soup and tangy sour cream directly over the seasoned chicken, creating a luscious base.
5. Carefully distribute the prepared stuffing mixture across the top of the creamy layer, ensuring an even and complete coverage.
6. Transfer the assembled casserole to the preheated oven and allow it to bake for approximately 40-45 minutes, watching for a golden-brown crust and confirming the chicken is thoroughly cooked by checking its internal temperature.
7. Once removed from the oven, permit the casserole to rest and settle for a brief interval, allowing the ingredients to meld and making serving easier and more stable.

Notes

• Swap chicken breasts with rotisserie chicken for quicker preparation and extra flavor.
• Add diced green chiles or jalapeños to the stuffing mix for a zesty Mexican-inspired kick.
• Use gluten-free stuffing mix and cream of chicken soup to make the dish celiac-friendly.
• Sprinkle shredded cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a melty, golden crust.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg