Fiesta Chicken Pasta Casserole Bake Recipe

This Fiesta Chicken Pasta Casserole Bake is a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal! Imagine tender pasta, shredded chicken, and a medley of vegetables, all coated in a creamy sauce with a hint of Mexican spice and baked to cheesy perfection. This recipe is easy to make and delivers a delicious and festive casserole that’s sure to please the whole family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Festive: The combination of chicken, Rotel tomatoes, black beans, corn, and a blend of spices creates a delicious and festive casserole that’s bursting with Mexican-inspired flavors.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple to follow and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time.
• One-Dish Wonder: Minimal cleanup! Everything bakes together in one casserole dish, saving you time and effort.
• Versatile: Feel free to customize the casserole with your favorite vegetables, beans, or cheeses. You can also adjust the spice level to your liking.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Pasta: Use your favorite type of pasta, such as rotini, penne, or farfalle.
• Cooked chicken: Use leftover or rotisserie chicken for convenience. You can also cook chicken breasts or thighs specifically for this recipe.
• Rotel tomatoes and green chilies: Adds a zesty kick and a touch of Southwestern flavor.
• Sour cream: Adds a creamy tanginess to the sauce.
• Whole kernel corn: Adds sweetness and texture.
• Black beans: Adds protein and fiber.
• Black olives: Sliced and adds a salty and briny flavor.
• Green chilies: Diced and adds a mild kick.
• Cream of chicken soup: Adds a creamy base and enhances the flavor of the sauce.
• Cumin: Adds a warm and earthy flavor.
• Garlic salt: Adds a savory flavor and seasons the dish.
• Shredded Mexican cheese blend: Adds a cheesy and flavorful topping.
• Fresh cilantro: Adds a fresh herb flavor and a pop of color as a garnish.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Fiesta Chicken Pasta Casserole Bake

Step 1: Preheat and Cook Pasta

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Rotel tomatoes and green chilies, sour cream, corn, black beans, ¾ cup of the sliced black olives, diced green chilies, cream of chicken soup, cumin, garlic salt, and 1 ½ cups of the shredded Mexican cheese blend. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Bake and Serve

Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it in an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese over the top and cover the dish with aluminum foil. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with the remaining ¼ cup of black olives and fresh cilantro. Serve hot and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use rotisserie chicken: Save time by using shredded rotisserie chicken instead of cooking the chicken yourself.
• Adjust the spice level: Adjust the amount of Rotel tomatoes and green chilies or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to your liking, depending on how spicy you want the casserole.
• Add other vegetables: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the casserole, such as diced bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, or chopped zucchini.
• Make ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

How to Serve

This Fiesta Chicken Pasta Casserole Bake is delicious on its own, but here are some ideas for serving it:

• Toppings: Offer a variety of toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, shredded lettuce, or extra cheese, for people to customize their plates.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
• Tortilla Chips: Serve with tortilla chips for scooping and dipping.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Fiesta Chicken Pasta Casserole Bake is great for making ahead of time or storing leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or reheat individual portions in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can! Other pasta shapes that would work well in this recipe include penne, ziti, or farfalle.

2. Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add chickpeas, lentils, or tofu for protein.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend.

4. Can I make this casserole spicier?
Definitely! Use a hotter enchilada sauce or add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the casserole.

This Fiesta Chicken Pasta Casserole Bake Recipe is a flavorful and convenient way to enjoy a delicious and festive meal. With its easy preparation, versatile ingredients, and one-pan convenience, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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