Rotisserie Chicken Taco Casserole

Name: Rotisserie Chicken Taco Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded; 1 cup salsa; 2 cups tortilla chips; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1/2 cup sour cream (optional); 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for topping); 1 avocado, diced (for topping)

Highlighted under: Hearty Delights

I love making this Rotisserie Chicken Taco Casserole for weeknight dinners when I want something quick and delicious. Using a store-bought rotisserie chicken not only saves me a lot of preparation time, but it also infuses the casserole with incredible flavor. The layers of tortilla chips, cheese, and zesty taco seasoning create a perfect harmony of tastes and textures that my whole family enjoys. Plus, it’s so customizable, allowing each person to tweak it to their liking, making it a satisfying meal for everyone at the table.

Created by

Olivia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-02-24T06:17:37.232Z

Creating this casserole was a delightful experiment, as I wanted to combine classic taco flavors with the convenience of a baked dish. I found that layering the ingredients instead of mixing them allowed the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the chips crispy. It's all about achieving that perfect balance!

The addition of fresh toppings like avocado and salsa at the end elevates the dish considerably. I highly recommend trying variations with your preferred vegetables or even beans for added nutrition and flavor. This is a dish I can't stop raving about!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick to prepare using a rotisserie chicken
Layers of crispy tortilla chips with melty cheese
Flavorful taco seasoning that everyone will adore

Perfect Layering Techniques

Layering is crucial in this casserole, as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully. I recommend using a 9x13 inch baking dish to ensure the layers are manageable and create even cooking. When layering, be mindful to distribute the ingredients evenly; this ensures that every bite is balanced with crispy chips, tender chicken, and gooey cheese. Start with a foundation of chips to create a crunchy base, which will support the creamy and flavorful layers above.

A great tip for foolproof layering is to slightly crush your tortilla chips before adding them to the casserole. This will help them conform better to the shape of the dish and create a more cohesive base. Additionally, consider mixing a bit of salsa with the taco seasoning before layering; this enhances the flavor distribution and helps to moisten the chips across the dish.

Storage and Enjoying Leftovers

Storing leftover Rotisserie Chicken Taco Casserole is simple. Ensure the casserole has cooled to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend using an oven set to 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. This helps maintain the texture of the chips, keeping them crispy instead of soggy, which can happen in the microwave.

If you want to prepare the casserole in advance, you can assemble it a day beforehand. Just cover it tightly with foil and keep it in the fridge until ready to bake. When you’re ready to cook, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through properly. This way, you can enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

Ingredients

For the Casserole

1 rotisserie chicken, shredded
1 cup salsa
2 cups tortilla chips
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
1 packet taco seasoning
1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
1/4 cup chopped green onions (for topping)
1 avocado, diced (for topping)

Add any additional toppings of your choice, like jalapeños or cilantro, for extra flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Shred the rotisserie chicken and set aside.

Layer the Casserole

In a large baking dish, spread half of the tortilla chips evenly. Layer half of the shredded chicken over the chips, followed by half of the salsa, black beans, taco seasoning, and cheese.

Repeat the Layers

Add another layer by repeating with the remaining tortilla chips, chicken, salsa, seasoning, and cheese.

Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden.

Garnish and Serve

Once baked, let the casserole cool slightly before topping with sour cream, green onions, and diced avocado. Serve warm and enjoy!

This casserole is best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating fresh cilantro or lime juice as a topping. You can also substitute the shredded chicken with beef or turkey if preferred.

Ingredient Substitutions

This casserole is incredibly customizable based on your dietary needs or what you have on hand. For a lighter option, you can substitute the rotisserie chicken for shredded turkey or even sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. If you're avoiding dairy, consider using non-dairy cheese alternatives that melt well. There are many great options available today that can provide a similar creamy texture.

Black beans add a hearty element to the casserole; however, you can swap them for pinto beans or even corn for added sweetness. If you're aiming to reduce sodium, make sure to opt for low-sodium options for the salsa and taco seasoning. Homemade taco seasoning is another great way to control ingredients and flavors while saving on salt.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your meal, consider serving the casserole with fresh toppings. A dollop of sour cream, some guacamole, or fresh pico de gallo can enhance the overall flavor and texture. You might also want to serve it with a side salad for added freshness. A simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lime vinaigrette would complement the robust flavors of the casserole beautifully.

If you’re hosting a gathering, this casserole can easily be made into a taco bar. Provide various toppings like jalapeños, diced onions, and different types of cheese on the side, allowing guests to customize their servings. This interactive dining experience makes it fun and caters to diverse tastes, ensuring everyone has something to enjoy at the meal!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Any cooked chicken will work well in this recipe.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just cover it tightly and it should last for up to 2 months.

→ What can I serve with this casserole?

It's great on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or elote for a complete meal.