Mexican Chicken Pasta Casserole

Name: Mexican Chicken Pasta Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb); 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 8 oz penne or rotini pasta; 1 cup diced bell peppers (mixed red and green); 2 tbsp taco seasoning; 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt; 2 cups shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese (divided); 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted recommended); 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

Published: October 30, 2025

by Sarah Conley

Why You'll Love This Mexican Chicken Pasta Casserole

This incredible Mexican Chicken Pasta Casserole transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

Ease of preparation: This recipe requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor, perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.

Flavor profile: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Visual appeal: With its vibrant colors from bell peppers and gooey cheese, this casserole is as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.

Versatility: Easily adaptable to various dietary preferences or whatever leftovers you have lying around—no one will complain about leftovers again!

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Mexican Chicken Pasta Casserole:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts depending on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor; no one likes sad garlic.
Pasta: Any variety works; I prefer penne or rotini for their ability to hold onto sauce.
Bell Peppers: A mix of red and green adds color and crunch; choose firm peppers without blemishes.
Taco Seasoning: Store-bought is fine, but homemade gives an extra kick; just mix chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and oregano.
Sour Cream: For creaminess that makes everything better; Greek yogurt can be swapped if you’re feeling healthy.
Shredded Cheese: Cheddar or Monterey Jack work wonders; let’s be honest—more cheese is always better.

For the Sauce:

Canned Diced Tomatoes: Opt for fire-roasted ones if you want an extra smoky flavor kick.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to keep things tasty without overwhelming saltiness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Mexican Chicken Pasta Casserole:

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up nicely, grab a baking dish and spray it with nonstick cooking spray. Season those chicken breasts with salt and pepper like they’re getting ready for their big debut.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken until golden brown on both sides—about 5-7 minutes per side should do it. Remove them from the pan and let them rest while you take care of business.

Step 3: Sauté Your Veggies

In that same skillet (because we don’t want to wash too many dishes), toss in minced garlic and diced bell peppers. Sauté until fragrant—the smell alone will have you dreaming about tacos!

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Chop up your rested chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, mix those pieces with cooked pasta, sautéed veggies, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, sour cream, and half of your shredded cheese until everything’s well-coated in creamy goodness.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour that heavenly mixture into your prepared baking dish. Top it off with the remaining cheese because life is too short not to have extra cheese!

Step 6: Bake Away

Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. Your house will smell like a fiesta!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every cheesy bite of your Mexican Chicken Pasta Casserole! It’s sure to become a staple in your household just like it did in mine!

You Must Know About Mexican Chicken Pasta Casserole

This showstopping Mexican Chicken Pasta Casserole delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

To create the ultimate Mexican Chicken Pasta Casserole, start by searing the chicken until golden brown. While the chicken cooks, boil your pasta to al dente perfection. Next, prepare your sauce with spices and veggies before combining all elements into a harmonious casserole.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to customize your Mexican Chicken Pasta Casserole! Swap out chicken for turkey or add black beans for extra protein. You can experiment with different cheeses, like pepper jack for a spicy kick or even toss in jalapeños if you’re feeling bold.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover Mexican Chicken Pasta Casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through—about 20 minutes should do the trick.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Mexican Chicken Pasta Casserole

This professional-quality Mexican Chicken Pasta Casserole relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

I remember the first time I served my Mexican Chicken Pasta Casserole at a family gathering; everyone asked for seconds and raved about it! It quickly became a staple in our household—nothing like seeing loved ones enjoy your cooking!

FAQs

What is Mexican Chicken Pasta Casserole?

Mexican Chicken Pasta Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish that combines tender chicken, pasta, and vibrant Mexican flavors into a comforting one-pan meal. This casserole typically features ingredients like cooked chicken breast, bell peppers, black beans, corn, and zesty spices, all mixed with pasta and topped with cheese. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The combination of flavors makes it a favorite among those who enjoy a twist on traditional casseroles.

How long does it take to prepare Mexican Chicken Pasta Casserole?

Preparing Mexican Chicken Pasta Casserole takes approximately 15-20 minutes of prep time and about 30 minutes to bake in the oven. The total cooking time is around 45-50 minutes from start to finish. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking for a quick yet satisfying meal. You can speed up the process by using pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken, further reducing your time in the kitchen.

Can I make Mexican Chicken Pasta Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can easily prepare Mexican Chicken Pasta Casserole ahead of time. Simply assemble the casserole as directed, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to cook it, adjust the baking time slightly since it will be cold from the fridge. This makes it a convenient option for meal planning or entertaining guests.

What can I serve with Mexican Chicken Pasta Casserole?

Mexican Chicken Pasta Casserole pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Consider serving it with a fresh green salad topped with avocado and lime dressing for added freshness. Cornbread or tortilla chips also complement this dish nicely. Additionally, you could offer some guacamole or salsa on the side to enhance the flavors even more. These sides create a balanced meal that everyone will love.

Conclusion

In summary, Mexican Chicken Pasta Casserole is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines chicken, pasta, and vibrant spices into a delightful meal. With its quick preparation time and versatility for make-ahead options, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it on a busy weeknight or serve it at gatherings, this casserole will surely impress your guests. Don’t forget to try this delicious Mexican Chicken Pasta Casserole recipe soon!

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