Doritos Chicken Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines the savory goodness of a creamy chicken casserole with the satisfying crunch of Doritos. This recipe is a deliciously indulgent meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a family dinner. It’s a great way to elevate the classic casserole with a fun and flavorful twist.
At the heart of this casserole is a creamy mixture made from cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. This blend creates a rich, velvety base that coats the tender chicken, adding both moisture and flavor. The addition of milk helps to loosen the mixture, ensuring it spreads easily and bakes up to a perfect consistency.
The chicken, which can be shredded or diced, provides a protein-packed component that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce. Corn and black beans are stirred into the mixture, adding a touch of sweetness and earthiness, as well as a boost of fiber. For a burst of freshness, you can include diced tomatoes, though this is optional depending on your preference.
What sets this casserole apart is its crunchy topping of crushed Doritos. As the casserole bakes, the Doritos become golden brown and crisp, creating a delightful contrast to the creamy filling below. The flavor of the Doritos also infuses into the casserole, adding an extra layer of savory, cheesy goodness.
Once baked, the casserole is ready to serve and can be garnished with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro for a pop of color and an additional layer of flavor. The green onions add a hint of sharpness and crunch, while the cilantro contributes a fresh, herbaceous note that complements the rich flavors of the dish.
Doritos Chicken Casserole is incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it to suit your taste by adding ingredients like sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick, extra cheese for more gooey goodness, or even sautéed vegetables for added nutrition. If you’re looking for a make-ahead option, you can prepare the casserole in advance, refrigerate it, and then bake it when you’re ready to serve. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re cooking it straight from the fridge.
This casserole is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or a casual get-together. It’s comforting, flavorful, and sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. With its creamy interior and crispy Doritos topping, Doritos Chicken Casserole offers a delicious twist on traditional casseroles that will have you coming back for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 3 cups Doritos, crushed (any flavor)
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions (optional for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Mix until smooth.
- Add Chicken and Vegetables: Stir in the cooked chicken, corn, black beans, and diced tomatoes (if using). Ensure everything is well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Add Doritos: Sprinkle the crushed Doritos evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the Doritos are golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro if desired.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, consider adding a layer of sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of extra cheese on top of the Doritos.
- If you prefer a crunchier topping, bake the casserole uncovered.
- This casserole can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 2 days before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Enjoy your Doritos Chicken Casserole!
