Healthier Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe

Craving comfort food without the guilt? This Healthier Mexican Chicken Casserole, adapted from a Canyon Ranch recipe, is a lighter take on a classic! Each serving boasts delicious layers of tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and melted cheese, all baked to bubbly perfection. Enjoy approximately 255 calories per serving (6 servings) or 380 calories per serving (4 servings). A quick and easy weeknight meal that's both satisfying and healthy!

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 25 mins
Calories 307.9 kcal
Protein 68g
Rating 4.2 (12 Reviews)
Healthier Mexican Chicken Casserole

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Healthier Mexican Chicken Casserole

  • Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast
  • Garlic Cloves
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • Red Onion
  • Red Bell Pepper
  • Diced Tomato
  • Cumin
  • Chili Powder
  • Diced Green Chilies
  • Low Sodium Chicken Broth
  • Whole Wheat Tortillas
  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese

How to Make Healthier Mexican Chicken Casserole

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces, and 2 cloves minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, until chicken is lightly browned.
  3. Add 1 medium onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped; 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; 1/4 teaspoon oregano; and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Stir in 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth and 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chiles (or 1-2 fresh jalapeños, minced, to taste).
  5. Bring to a simmer and cook until most of the liquid has evaporated, about 5 minutes.
  6. Lightly coat an 8x8-inch glass baking dish with cooking spray.
  7. Place 2 corn tortillas (6-inch) in the bottom of the dish.
  8. Spread half of the chicken mixture evenly over the tortillas.
  9. Sprinkle with 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend.
  10. Top with remaining tortillas, the rest of the chicken mixture, and the remaining cheese.
  11. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and lightly browned.
  12. Let cool slightly before cutting into 4-6 servings.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

30 g

Sugar

19g

Fat

34g

Carbs

3g