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–+ servings
Mexican Chicken from Debbie Mc Donald
This comforting casserole recipe, often referred to as “Mexican Chicken Casserole,” combines Tex-Mex flavors with classic American ingredients. Popular across Southern kitchens, especially in Texas, this dish layers Doritos with seasoned chicken, creamy soups, and zesty Rotel tomatoes. It originated in mid-20th century American home cooking when canned soups became staples in quick, hearty meals. The recipe is perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or nostalgic comfort food nights. Its ease of preparation and bold flavor make it a beloved favorite passed down through generations.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 4100 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 5 cups Doritos (enough to cover bottom of 9x13 dish)
  • 1 cup Chicken broth (for dipping Doritos)
  • 1½ lbs cooked chicken (cooked , shredded)
  • ½ onion (medium, sautéed)
  • 2 tbsp green pepper (sautéed)
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp garlic salt
  • 1 cup cheese (shredded, cheddar or Monterey Jack)
  • 1 can cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 can cream of chicken soup ( or cream of celery soup)
  • 1 can Rotel tomatoes with chilies

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Base

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Dip Doritos in chicken broth and layer them in a 9x13 baking dish.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken Mix

  • Sauté the chopped onion and green pepper until soft.
  • Mix sautéed veggies with cooked chicken.
  • Stir in chili powder and garlic salt.
  • Layer this chicken mixture evenly over the Doritos.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Soups

  • Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over the chicken layer.
  • Spread the cream of mushroom soup evenly over the top.
  • Add the second can of soup (cream of chicken or celery) as the next layer.

Step 4: Top and Bake

  • Pour the can of Rotel tomatoes with chilies over the entire dish.
  • Bake for 40 minutes.

Step 5: Final Cheese Finish

  • Remove from oven and top with remaining 1/2 cup cheese.
  • Return to oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes.

Tips

  • Substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery or cream of chicken for different flavors.
  • Add a small can of diced green chiles for extra spice.
  • Use rotisserie chicken to save prep time.
  • Replace Doritos with tortilla chips for a lighter option.
  • Sprinkle fresh cilantro or green onions before serving for brightness.

Nutrition

Calories: 4100kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 28gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 950mgPotassium: 420mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 580IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 220mgIron: 2mg
Keyword baked chicken casserole, brunch potluck, casserole, cheesy dinner, doritos, easy bake, retro cooking, Tex-Mex, vintage recipe
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