Rotel Chicken Mexican Casserole

Rotel Chicken Mexican Casserole is a easy Mexican recipe that serves 6. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by Cookin' Simple , Kim Sasser Hill on YouTube.

Prep: 15 min | Cook: 22 min | Total: 47 min

Cost: $12.44 total, $2.07 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1 can (10 oz) Rotel Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilies (drained)
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) Cream of Chicken Soup (regular condensed soup)
  • 2 cups shredded Sharp Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese (freshly shredded for best melt)
  • 2 cups Cooked Shredded Chicken (rotisserie chicken or boiled chicken breast, shredded)
  • 1 bag (10 oz) Tortilla Chips (plain or lightly salted)
  • 0.5 cup Optional Extra Shredded Cheddar (for topping, optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the Cheese‑Tomato Sauce

    In a mixing bowl combine the drained Rotel, the cream of chicken soup, and the shredded sharp cheddar. Stir until the cheese is evenly distributed.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Heat the Sauce

    Transfer the mixture to a microwave‑safe bowl and microwave on high for 2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

    Time: PT2M

  3. Incorporate the Chicken

    Add the shredded chicken to the hot sauce and stir until every piece is coated.

    Time: PT2M

  4. Create the Chip Base

    Spread a single layer of tortilla chips evenly across the bottom of a 9×13‑inch casserole dish, allowing them to overlap slightly.

    Time: PT3M

  5. Add the Chicken Mixture

    Pour the chicken‑cheese sauce over the chip layer, spreading it with a spatula to cover the chips completely.

    Time: PT3M

  6. Crush Additional Chips for Topping

    Place the remaining tortilla chips in a zip‑top bag and crush them with a meat tenderizer or rolling pin. Sprinkle the crushed chips evenly over the top of the casserole.

    Time: PT2M

  7. Bake the Casserole

    Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the casserole, uncovered, for 20 minutes or until the sauce is bubbling and the top is lightly golden.

    Time: PT20M

    Temperature: 350°F

  8. Rest and Serve

    Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

    Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
350
Protein
20g
Carbohydrates
30g
Fat
15g
Fiber
3g

Dietary info: High protein, Contains gluten, Contains dairy

Allergens: Dairy, Gluten

Last updated: April 20, 2026

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Rotel Chicken Mexican Casserole

Recipe by Cookin' Simple , Kim Sasser Hill

A quick, family‑friendly Mexican‑style casserole made with Rotel tomatoes, creamy chicken soup, shredded chicken, extra‑sharp cheddar and crunchy tortilla chips. Perfect for busy weeknights and easy to assemble ahead of time.

EasyMexicanServes 6

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
22m
Prep
20m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
52m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$12.44
Total cost
$2.07
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Ensuring the cheese fully melts in the microwave before adding chicken.
  • Coating the shredded chicken evenly with the sauce.
  • Baking until the sauce is bubbling and the topping is golden.

Safety Warnings

  • The microwave‑safe bowl will be very hot; use oven mitts.
  • The oven reaches 350°F – handle the casserole dish with care.
  • Use the cheese grater with a firm grip to avoid cuts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Rotel Chicken Mexican Casserole in Tex‑Mex cuisine?

A

While not a traditional Mexican dish, the casserole reflects the Tex‑Mex tradition of blending American convenience foods like canned Rotel and cream soups with Mexican flavors such as green chilies and tortilla chips, creating a hearty, family‑friendly comfort food.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of Mexican‑style chicken casseroles in the United States?

A

In the Southwest, cooks often add black beans, corn, or jalapeños. In California, a layer of avocado or fresh cilantro is common. Some versions substitute enchilada sauce for the Rotel‑cream base.

cultural
Q

How is Rotel Chicken Mexican Casserole traditionally served in Tex‑Mex households?

A

It is typically served hot from the oven, cut into squares, and accompanied by a simple side salad, guacamole, or a dollop of sour cream. It’s a popular dish for potlucks and casual family gatherings.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is Rotel Chicken Mexican Casserole commonly associated with in American‑Mexican cuisine?

A

The casserole is a go‑to for game‑day parties, family movie nights, and informal gatherings because it can be assembled ahead and feeds a crowd with minimal effort.

cultural
Q

What authentic Mexican ingredients could be substituted for the canned Rotel in this casserole?

A

Fresh diced tomatoes, roasted green chilies, and a splash of lime juice can replace canned Rotel for a fresher flavor, though the convenience of the canned version is why the recipe uses it.

cultural
Q

What other Tex‑Mex dishes pair well with Rotel Chicken Mexican Casserole?

A

Serve it alongside Mexican rice, refried beans, a corn‑on‑the‑cob salad, or a simple pico de gallo to round out the meal.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Rotel Chicken Mexican Casserole?

A

Common errors include under‑heating the cheese sauce so it stays clumpy, adding too many whole tortilla chips on top which become soggy, and over‑baking which can dry out the chicken.

technical
Q

Why does this Rotel Chicken Mexican Casserole recipe use a microwave step before baking?

A

Microwaving quickly melts the cheese and blends the flavors, ensuring a smooth sauce that spreads evenly over the chips before the longer oven bake finishes the dish.

technical
Q

Can I make Rotel Chicken Mexican Casserole ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes. Assemble up to the topping stage, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Cookin' Simple, Kim Sasser Hill specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Cookin' Simple, Kim Sasser Hill focuses on quick, family‑friendly recipes that use everyday pantry ingredients, emphasizing step‑by‑step guidance for home cooks of all skill levels.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Cookin' Simple, Kim Sasser Hill's approach to Tex‑Mex cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

Kim Sasser Hill prioritizes simplicity and minimal prep, often using canned or pre‑shredded items to speed up cooking, whereas many other channels may focus on traditional techniques or elaborate flavor‑building processes.

channel

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