Description
This Easy Chicken Quesadilla Casserole is a flavorful and comforting layered dish combining tender cooked chicken, salsa, cheese, and soft flour tortillas baked to perfection. Topped with fresh garnishes like cilantro, green onions, olives, tomatoes, and avocado, it delivers a delicious Mexican-inspired meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that serves 4.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Mixture
- 2 cups diced or shredded cooked chicken (such as rotisserie chicken or leftovers)
- ½ cup salsa (plus additional ½ cup for drizzling)
- ½ cup (2 ounces) grated sharp cheddar cheese or Mexican cheese blend (plus ½ cup for topping)
Other Ingredients
- 6 flour tortillas
Garnishes
- Fresh cilantro
- Sliced green onions
- Sliced olives
- Sliced tomatoes
- Diced avocado
- Guacamole
- Sour cream
- Extra salsa
- Fresh lime wedges
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and lightly spray a 2-quart baking dish (8-inch or 9-inch square) with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix Chicken with Salsa and Cheese: In a large bowl, combine the diced or shredded cooked chicken with half of the salsa (½ cup) and half of the grated cheese (½ cup). Toss until evenly coated.
- Layer Tortillas: Arrange 2 of the flour tortillas in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Tear tortillas as needed to cover the base completely, allowing pieces to overlap.
- Add First Chicken Layer: Spread half of the chicken mixture evenly over the tortilla base, then drizzle with ¼ cup of the remaining salsa.
- Second Tortilla and Chicken Layer: Layer 2 more tortillas on top of the chicken mixture, add the remaining chicken mixture evenly, and drizzle the last ¼ cup of salsa over it.
- Final Tortilla Layer: Finish by placing the last 2 tortillas on top to fully cover the casserole.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to let flavors meld and heat through.
- Add Cheese and Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup grated cheese on top, and return the dish to the oven. Bake uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve and Garnish: Cut the casserole into squares and garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, olives, tomatoes, avocado, guacamole, sour cream, salsa, and lime wedges to add vibrant flavor and color.
Notes
- You can substitute salsa with taco sauce or enchilada sauce for a different flavor profile.
- Use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken to save time.
- Customize garnishes based on preference or availability of fresh toppings.
- For a spicier casserole, choose a hotter salsa or add jalapeños.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
