Doritos Chicken Casserole

Doritos Chicken Casserole is a flavorful, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and the irresistible crunch of Doritos. This easy-to-make casserole is a perfect weeknight dinner that’s sure to please the whole family. The Doritos add a unique, zesty twist to the classic casserole, while the cheesy, creamy filling brings everything together in the most delicious way. It’s a fun and satisfying meal that will quickly become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Doritos Chicken Casserole is a fun, delicious, and easy-to-make dish that takes comfort food to the next level. The combination of creamy chicken, spicy salsa, and crunchy Doritos creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy nights, and you can even make it ahead of time to save you more time later. Plus, it’s highly customizable—you can add veggies, change the type of cheese, or make it spicier with jalapeños. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

this Recipe

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Ro*Tel)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend)
• 1 bag (10-12 oz) Doritos, crushed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for greasing the casserole dish)
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or butter.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies, sour cream, and taco seasoning. Stir until well mixed.
3. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Add the shredded chicken to the sauce mixture and stir until the chicken is fully coated.
4. Layer the Casserole: Spread a layer of crushed Doritos at the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. Pour half of the chicken mixture over the Doritos and spread it evenly. Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken mixture. Repeat the process with another layer of crushed Doritos, followed by the remaining chicken mixture and another sprinkle of cheese.
5. Bake the Casserole: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
6. Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Add Vegetables: You can add vegetables like corn, black beans, or bell peppers to the casserole to make it even more hearty and flavorful.
• Spicy Version: For extra heat, stir in some diced jalapeños or use a spicy salsa in place of the diced tomatoes with green chilies.
• Creamy Version: Use a combination of cream cheese and sour cream for a richer, creamier sauce.
• Ground Beef Option: If you prefer beef, substitute the chicken with ground beef and cook it with taco seasoning for a beefy twist on the casserole.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover Doritos Chicken Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: This casserole can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or heat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of chips instead of Doritos?

Yes, you can use any type of tortilla chips or even corn chips for a similar crunch, but Doritos add a unique flavor to the dish.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

3. Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Absolutely! You can use any cheese you like, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a cheese blend for a different flavor.

4. Can I make this casserole spicier?

Yes, you can add diced jalapeños, spicy salsa, or hot sauce to the casserole to give it some heat.

5. Can I substitute the sour cream with something else?

Yes, you can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream for a similar texture.

6. Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use canned chicken, though freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken will provide a better flavor and texture.

7. How can I make this casserole more filling?

Add more vegetables like corn, black beans, or diced bell peppers to bulk up the casserole. You can also serve it with a side of rice or a simple salad for a more complete meal.

8. Can I freeze Doritos Chicken Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before or after baking. Just make sure to let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

9. Can I use a different type of soup?

Yes, you can use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a slightly different flavor, though cream of chicken is most commonly used for this recipe.

10. How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers will last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Doritos Chicken Casserole is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table. With its creamy chicken mixture, cheesy topping, and the perfect crunch from Doritos, it’s a satisfying meal that combines comfort food with a fun twist. It’s quick to prepare, customizable to your preferences, and ideal for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers. Give it a try—you’ll love how delicious and satisfying it is!

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