Some casseroles are rich, cheesy, and heavy — and while there’s certainly a time and place for that — sometimes what we really crave is a meal that feels lighter, brighter, and packed with fresh flavors.
That’s where Salsa Verde Chicken Casserole comes in.
Inspired by classic Mexican ingredients, this easy-to-make casserole is loaded with tender shredded chicken, earthy black beans, vibrant salsa verde, and melty cheese — all layered over soft tortillas. It’s the kind of weeknight dinner that feels comforting but still fresh and lively, thanks to the tangy kick of salsa verde and a sprinkle of bright toppings like cilantro, lime, and avocado.
Perfect for busy families, meal prepping, or casual gatherings, this is a one-dish wonder that delivers bold flavor with very little effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is flexible — feel free to adjust quantities or swap ingredients based on what you have on hand.
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken is perfect)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1½ cups salsa verde (store-bought or homemade)
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas, cut into strips or quarters
- 1½ cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or cheddar, pepper jack)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Diced avocado
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Sliced jalapeños
- Fresh lime wedges
- Sliced green onions
Step-By-Step Preparation
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Make the Chicken Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, cumin, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and 1 cup of salsa verde. Stir until everything is well coated and seasoned.
This mixture is where all that bright, tangy flavor starts to build.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole
Place a layer of tortilla pieces on the bottom of the baking dish. Top with half of the chicken mixture, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle a layer of cheese over the top.
Repeat the layers: tortillas, remaining chicken mixture, and another generous layer of cheese.
Finish by drizzling the remaining ½ cup of salsa verde over the top layer.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to brown slightly around the edges.
Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing — this helps it hold together better when serving.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Top your casserole with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream. A squeeze of fresh lime juice really brightens the dish!
Tips for the Best Salsa Verde Chicken Casserole
Use Rotisserie Chicken — A total time-saver, and adds extra flavor. You can also use leftover grilled chicken or even shredded turkey.
Make It Spicy or Mild — Salsa verde can range in heat level. Use mild salsa verde if feeding kids or spice-sensitive eaters. For more heat, stir in some diced jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese.
Add Extra Veggies — Diced zucchini, sautéed spinach, or even mushrooms work well here if you want to boost the veggie content.
Choose Your Tortillas — Corn tortillas will give a more traditional texture and flavor, while flour tortillas make the casserole softer and more cohesive.
Make It Ahead — You can fully assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready.
Freezer-Friendly — This casserole freezes wonderfully. Bake, cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
What to Serve With Salsa Verde Chicken Casserole
This dish is a full meal on its own, but here are a few sides that pair beautifully:
Fresh Green Salad with Lime Vinaigrette — Light and refreshing to balance the casserole.
Guacamole and Tortilla Chips — A perfect appetizer or side.
Mexican Street Corn (Elote) — Sweet, spicy, and creamy.
Iced Hibiscus Tea or Margaritas — To make it feel like a full fiesta.
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation
Easy to Make — Minimal prep and no complicated techniques.
Big, Bold Flavor — Bright salsa verde keeps it from feeling heavy.
Versatile — Easily adjustable for dietary preferences.
Perfect for Leftovers — Tastes just as good (if not better) the next day.
Family-Friendly — Kids love the cheesy, comforting layers — adults love the zesty kick.
This Salsa Verde Chicken Casserole is exactly the kind of dish you want in your weekly rotation — flavorful, easy, and packed with everything you love about Mexican-inspired cooking.
It’s the kind of meal that feels special enough for company, but simple enough to throw together on a weeknight when you don’t feel like fussing. And best of all? It leaves everyone at the table satisfied and reaching for seconds.
Bright, cheesy, fresh, and totally customizable — once you make it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
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