Tex Mex Chicken Noodle Casserole is a tasty one-dish meal that brings together tender chicken, hearty noodles, and bold Tex-Mex flavors like taco seasoning, cheese, and a bit of salsa. It’s got just the right mix of creamy and cheesy, with a little spicy kick that makes it stand out.
I love making this casserole when I want something comforting but with a fun twist. It’s great for feeding a crowd or having leftovers because it tastes even better the next day. I usually add some extra chopped green onions or jalapeños on top for a fresh, crunchy finish. It’s simple to throw together and always gets compliments.
My favorite way to serve this is with a side of crunchy tortilla chips and a dollop of sour cream. It feels like a cozy weeknight dinner but with the exciting flavors of Tex-Mex. Whenever I make it, it brings back warm memories of family gatherings and sharing food around the table. This casserole makes me smile every time I dig in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: Rotini works great because its twists hold the sauce well. If you don’t have rotini, penne or rigatoni are good swaps that also capture the creamy sauce.
Chicken: Using cooked chicken breast is perfect for tenderness. Leftover roast chicken or even rotisserie chicken is a quick and tasty option.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar and pepper jack add great flavor and a bit of spice. If you want less heat, swap pepper jack for Monterey Jack or mozzarella.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess and moisture. You can substitute with homemade cream sauce or use a can of cream of mushroom for a slight twist.
Taco Seasoning: It brings the Tex Mex flavor. If you don’t have a mix, blend cumin, chili powder, paprika, and garlic powder for a simple alternative.
How Can You Get the Perfect Crispy Topping?
A crispy topping adds a wonderful texture contrast to the creamy casserole. Here’s how to get it right:
- Melt butter and toss it with crushed tortilla chips or seasoned breadcrumbs to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle this mixture plus some reserved shredded cheese on top of the casserole before baking.
- Bake uncovered in a hot oven (350°F) so the topping crisps nicely without overcooking the filling.
I like using crushed tortilla chips for that extra Tex-Mex crunch, but breadcrumbs give a nice golden crust too.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – to boil the pasta perfectly before baking.
- Skillet or frying pan – great for sautéing onions, garlic, and chicken together.
- Mixing bowl – helps combine all ingredients evenly without mess.
- 9×13-inch baking dish or oven-safe skillet – roomy enough for the casserole to bake evenly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts and seasoning.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – perfect for stirring without damaging your pans.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add black beans or corn for extra texture and to boost the Tex-Mex vibe.
- Swap chicken for ground beef or turkey if you crave a different protein feel.
- Mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to turn up the heat.
- Use a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and Chihuahua for a milder, creamier finish.
How to Make Tex Mex Chicken Noodle Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh cherry tomatoes)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup pepper jack cheese, shredded
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup (or homemade cream sauce)
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Topping:
- ½ cup crushed tortilla chips or seasoned breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter (for topping mix)
Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro or green onions, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, 30 minutes to bake, and a few minutes to cool before serving. Expect a total time of roughly 50 minutes from start to finish, perfect for an easy weekday meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken and Veggies:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes until they are soft and fragrant. Next, stir in the cooked chicken, diced tomatoes, and taco seasoning. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring to mix the flavors well.
3. Mix the Casserole Ingredients:
In a big mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken and tomato mixture, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, milk, and shredded cheeses. Save about ¼ cup of cheese for sprinkling on top later. Add salt and pepper to taste, then mix everything well.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish or an oven-safe skillet. Transfer your pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. Melt the butter in a small bowl and mix it with the crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs. Sprinkle the reserved cheese on top, followed by the buttery topping mixture.
5. Bake and Serve:
Bake the casserole uncovered in your preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Finally, garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or green onions for a bright, fresh finish.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Casserole?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the frozen chicken completely in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Cook the chicken fully before adding it to the casserole to ensure safety and great texture.
Can I Make Tex Mex Chicken Noodle Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you prefer a homemade or dairy-free option, make a simple cream sauce with butter, flour, milk, and chicken broth. You can also swap with cream of mushroom soup for a slightly different flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to keep it creamy and delicious.