If you’re craving a vibrant twist on a classic favorite, this Mexican Chicken Lasagna Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a delicious fusion of comforting layers, combining tender shredded chicken seasoned with taco spices, black beans, sweet corn, and a fresh blend of spinach and cilantro, all sandwiched between soft tortillas and melted Mexican cheese. Every bite bursts with flavor and texture, making it perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Mexican Chicken Lasagna Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients that work harmoniously to build a dish full of flavor, color, and satisfying texture. Each component plays a role—from the seasoned chicken adding savory depth, to the fresh spinach-cilantro salsa blend bringing brightness and moisture.
- 1 pound shredded rotisserie chicken: Fully cooked chicken makes preparation quick and easy while ensuring tender, juicy meat in every bite.
- 1 ounce Old El Paso Taco Seasoning (1 packet): Adds authentic Mexican spices that infuse the chicken with bold flavor.
- 15 ounces canned black beans, drained and rinsed: Provide hearty protein and a creamy texture that complements the chicken.
- 15 ounces canned corn, drained and rinsed: Adds natural sweetness and a delightful pop to every layer.
- 5 ounces baby spinach: Offers freshness and a subtle earthy note, blending beautifully when mixed with salsa.
- 1 cup fresh cilantro: Delivers a zesty herbal brightness essential to Mexican cuisine.
- 1 cup salsa: Ties all the fresh elements together with a savory-tangy kick.
- 12 (6-inch) Old El Paso soft tortillas: The perfect layering base that soaks up all the flavors while staying tender.
- 2 cups shredded Mexican Blend Cheese: Melts golden and gooey, creating that irresistible melted cheese pull.
- Plain Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream: A cool, creamy garnish to balance the spices.
- Extra fresh cilantro: For topping and added color.
- Old El Paso jalapeños: Optional, but perfect for those who appreciate a little fiery heat.
How to Make Mexican Chicken Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare the Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. Lightly spray a casserole dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking, setting the stage for easy cleanup and perfectly layered lasagna.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
In a medium bowl, mix the shredded rotisserie chicken with the taco seasoning packet. This evenly coats the chicken in those smoky, spicy flavors that will make the dish truly sing.
Step 3: Prepare the Salsa Mixture
Next, in your food processor or blender, combine the baby spinach, fresh cilantro, and salsa. Pulse until the mixture is well-chopped and fully integrated. This green salsa mixture will add a fresh, vibrant twist to each savory layer.
Step 4: Assemble the First Layer
Arrange six of your tortillas across the bottom of the prepared casserole dish, overlapping slightly to create a solid base. Spread 1 cup of the shredded cheese over the tortillas, then evenly distribute half of the black beans, half of the corn, and half of the seasoned chicken on top. Finally, pour 1 cup of the spinach-salsa mixture evenly over the chicken. This layering creates a rich balance of flavors and textures right from the first bite.
Step 5: Assemble the Second Layer
Repeat the layering process by adding the remaining six tortillas, followed by the remaining black beans, corn, chicken, and the rest of your spinach-salsa mixture. Finish by sprinkling the remaining shredded cheese over the top. Your lasagna is now ready for the oven!
Step 6: Bake the Lasagna
Cover your casserole dish tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the cheese to melt beautifully. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes to get that golden, bubbly, slightly crispy cheese topping that everyone loves.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Once baked, let the Mexican Chicken Lasagna Recipe cool for a few minutes—this helps it set up so you can slice cleanly. Serve with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream, sprinkle fresh cilantro on top, and add jalapeños to elevate the flavor with some heat.
How to Serve Mexican Chicken Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
The garnishes for this dish aren’t just for looks—they add layers of flavor and texture that make every mouthful exciting. Creaminess from Greek yogurt or sour cream cools down heat, fresh cilantro adds a herbal brightness, and jalapeños offer that punch of spice for the daring eater.
Side Dishes
This Mexican Chicken Lasagna Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides such as a crisp green salad with lime vinaigrette or classic Mexican rice. Black bean salad or roasted vegetables also complement the richness of the lasagna without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve this dish in rustic individual ramekins or bake it as a large casserole for family-style dining. You can also layer it in clear glass baking dishes to showcase the beautiful layers of tortillas, beans, and colorful veggies, enticing guests before they even dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Mexican Chicken Lasagna Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Flavors tend to deepen overnight, making leftovers a convenient and tasty option.
Freezing
This lasagna freezes well either before baking or after. Wrap the casserole tightly with foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight before baking or reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, cover leftovers with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes until heated through. For single servings, microwave on medium power, covering the dish to retain moisture and prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! You can cook and shred your own chicken breasts or thighs and then season them with the taco mix. Using rotisserie chicken just speeds things up without sacrificing flavor.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add extra beans or seasoned vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to maintain heartiness and flavor.
What type of salsa works best in this Mexican Chicken Lasagna Recipe?
A medium-spicy tomato-based salsa works great to balance the flavors. You can also try a roasted or smoky salsa if you want a deeper flavor profile.
Can I substitute the tortillas with something else?
You could use corn tortillas for a different texture or low-carb wraps to lighten the dish. Just make sure they are pliable enough to layer without cracking.
How spicy is this dish?
The spice level can easily be adjusted depending on your preference. The taco seasoning provides mild heat, and jalapeños as garnish allow you to control the added spice.
Final Thoughts
This Mexican Chicken Lasagna Recipe is one of those feel-good dishes that brings warmth, spice, and smiles to the table. It’s straightforward, full of vibrant flavors, and perfect for sharing with friends or family. I encourage you to whip it up soon—you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner!
Print
Mexican Chicken Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 44 minutes
- Total Time: 59 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Mexican Chicken Lasagna recipe offers a delicious twist on traditional lasagna by layering soft tortillas with seasoned shredded chicken, black beans, corn, a fresh spinach and cilantro salsa mixture, and melted Mexican blend cheese. Baked until bubbly and golden, it’s a flavorful and hearty dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 1 pound shredded rotisserie chicken, fully cooked
- 1 ounce Old El Paso Taco Seasoning (1 packet)
Vegetables and Salsa Mixture
- 15 ounces canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 15 ounces canned corn, drained and rinsed
- 5 ounces baby spinach
- 1 cup fresh cilantro
- 1 cup salsa
Assembly
- 12 (6-inch) Old El Paso soft tortillas
- 2 cups shredded Mexican Blend Cheese
Garnishes
- Plain Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream
- Extra fresh cilantro
- Old El Paso jalapeños
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare the Dish: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Spray a casserole dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking and set it aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: In a medium-sized bowl, mix the shredded rotisserie chicken with the taco seasoning until evenly coated. Set aside.
- Prepare the Salsa Mixture: In a food processor or blender, combine the baby spinach, fresh cilantro, and salsa. Pulse until the mixture is well-chopped and fully integrated.
- Assemble the First Layer: Arrange six tortillas at the bottom of the prepared casserole dish, slightly overlapping them. Spread 1 cup of shredded cheese over the tortillas, then evenly layer half of the black beans, half of the corn, and half of the seasoned chicken. Pour 1 cup of the prepared spinach mixture evenly over the chicken.
- Assemble the Second Layer: Repeat the layering process starting with another layer of tortillas, followed by the remaining beans, corn, chicken, and spinach mixture. Top with the remaining shredded cheese.
- Bake the Lasagna: Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese becomes bubbly. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top of the lasagna is golden brown to your liking.
- Serve and Garnish: Once baked, allow the lasagna to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with plain Greek yogurt (or low-fat sour cream), extra cilantro, and Old El Paso jalapeños for added flavor.
Notes
- Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor.
- Adjust the spiciness by choosing mild or hot salsa and jalapeños accordingly.
- Can be prepared a day in advance and baked when ready, perfect for meal prepping.
- Substitute tortillas with corn or flour varieties based on preference or dietary needs.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated.
