Frito Chicken Casserole Recipe

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Cook Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 4 cups cubed cooked chicken breast
• 1 (15.25 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15.2 ounce) can corn, drained
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chiles (such as RO*TEL), undrained
• 1 (4 ounce) can chopped green chilies
• 1 (4 ounce) package cream cheese
• cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
• 1 (10 ounce) bag chili and cheese flavored corn chips (such as Fritos Chili Cheese Corn Chips)

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350F (175C).

Step 2: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Add the cooked chicken, black beans, corn, cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes with green chiles (with juice), green chiles, cream cheese, and chopped cilantro. Stir and cook until the cream cheese has melted, about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Spread one-third of the chili cheese chips on the bottom of a 9x13-inch rectangular casserole dish.

Step 5: Top the chips with half of the chicken mixture, spreading it evenly.

Step 6: Sprinkle one-third of the shredded Cheddar cheese over the chicken mixture.

Step 7: Repeat the layering process: add another one-third of the chips, followed by the remaining half of the chicken mixture, and top with the remaining one-third of the Cheddar cheese.

Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese has melted and is lightly browned, about 30 minutes.

Step 9: Remove the casserole from the oven, cover it, and let it sit for 30 minutes to set before cutting it into squares.

Frito Chicken Casserole is a beloved American comfort food that brings together tender chicken, crunchy Fritos, and a savory blend of cheese and creamy ingredients. This hearty casserole is perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering, offering an irresistible combination of flavors and textures.

History of Frito Chicken Casserole

The origin of the Frito Chicken Casserole is linked to the convenience food culture of the 20th century in the United States, where pre-packaged ingredients became a staple in many households. The dish likely emerged in the Southwestern U.S., where corn chips like Fritos are commonly used in various recipes. It became popular due to its simple preparation, minimal ingredients, and ability to feed a crowd. This casserole is part of a larger tradition of Tex-Mex inspired casseroles that blend classic American comfort food with bold, flavorful elements.

Regional Variations

While the Frito Chicken Casserole is popular across the U.S., it has some regional variations. In the Southwest, for instance, you might find versions that include spicy jalapeos or other hot peppers, giving it an extra kick. In contrast, other regions might focus on adding extra cheese or beans, tailoring the dish to local tastes and preferences. Some variations also swap out Fritos for other chips like Doritos or tortilla chips, offering a different texture and flavor profile while maintaining the essence of the casserole.

How it Differs from Similar Dishes

Frito Chicken Casserole shares similarities with other baked casseroles, such as taco casseroles or cheesy chicken casseroles, but it stands out due to the unique use of chili cheese-flavored corn chips as the topping. This gives the dish a crispy, cheesy, and slightly spicy crunch that is not typical in other casseroles. While similar dishes might use traditional breadcrumbs or crushed crackers, Frito Chicken Casserole relies on the corn chip base, making it a true crowd-pleaser with a Southwestern twist.

Where its Typically Served

This dish is commonly served in casual settings like family dinners, potlucks, and barbecues. Its hearty and filling nature makes it ideal for larger groups, and the ease of preparation makes it a favorite for busy weeknights. Its also a great dish for meal prepping, as it keeps well in the fridge for several days and can be easily reheated. Whether served alongside a fresh salad or on its own, Frito Chicken Casserole is a comfort food that brings people together.

Interesting Facts

• Fritos brand corn chips, which are a key ingredient in this casserole, were created in 1932 by Charles Elmer Doolin, and have been a popular snack food ever since.
• The casserole is known for its versatility, with many families customizing it by adding different vegetables, meats, or spices according to their preferences.
• Although its often seen as a Tex-Mex dish, the Frito Chicken Casserole can easily be adapted to different cuisines by changing the flavor profile or adding ingredients like curry or soy sauce for a fusion twist.

This recipe is not just a filling meal, but also a reflection of the American love for convenient, yet delicious home cooking. Whether youre feeding a crowd or just looking for a quick and easy dinner, Frito Chicken Casserole is sure to satisfy with its bold flavors and comforting appeal.

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