Tex Mex Chicken Noodle Casserole
There’s something comforting about a bubbling casserole fresh from the oven. It’s a complete meal in one dish — hearty, filling, and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers the next day. This Tex Mex Chicken Noodle Casserole takes that comfort to another level, infusing classic pasta bake goodness with the bold, zesty flavors of Tex Mex cuisine.
Think of it as the best of both worlds: tender chicken, soft noodles, a creamy and cheesy sauce, plus all the spices and textures that make Tex Mex food so irresistible. Every forkful delivers layers of flavor — from smoky cumin to the tang of salsa, the sweetness of corn, the bite of bell peppers, and the creaminess of cheddar.
It’s an ideal family dinner recipe because it’s easy to make, can be prepped in advance, and offers plenty of flexibility to adjust based on your tastes. Whether you like it mild or extra spicy, you can tweak the seasoning to your liking.
Let’s walk through the ingredients, preparation steps, and a few tips to make this dish even more delicious.
Ingredients
For the casserole base:
• 12 ounces egg noodles (or your favorite pasta)
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed (15 ounces)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the sauce:
• 1 can condensed cream of chicken soup (10.5 ounces)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot depending on preference)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
For topping:
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup crushed tortilla chips (optional for crunch)
• Fresh cilantro or green onions, chopped, for garnish
Step-by-Step Preparation
Step 1 – Cook the noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook until just al dente, about 1 minute less than package instructions. Drain and set aside. The noodles will continue cooking in the oven, so it’s important not to overcook them now.
Step 2 – Prepare the chicken and vegetables
If you haven’t already cooked your chicken, this is the time to do so. Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully for saving time, but you can also boil or bake chicken breasts and shred them. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the corn and black beans, cooking for 2 more minutes to heat them through.
Step 3 – Make the creamy Tex Mex sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and salsa. Stir in cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper if using. Mix well until the sauce is smooth and evenly seasoned. Taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Step 4 – Assemble the casserole
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl or directly in the casserole dish, combine the cooked noodles, chicken, vegetable mixture, and sauce. Stir gently until all ingredients are evenly coated in the creamy Tex Mex mixture. Spread everything evenly into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 5 – Add the cheesy topping
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. If you like a crunchy element, scatter crushed tortilla chips over the cheese. This gives each bite an extra layer of texture and flavor.
Step 6 – Bake to perfection
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through. If you want a golden brown top, switch to broil for the last 2 minutes — just keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Step 7 – Garnish and serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to scoop. Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions for a burst of freshness. Serve hot, straight from the dish, with a side of extra salsa or sour cream if desired.
Tips for the Best Tex Mex Chicken Noodle Casserole
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting — Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting.
- Make it ahead — Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.
- Freeze for later — This casserole freezes beautifully. Wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
- Spice it up — Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for extra heat.
- Add more vegetables — Zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach can be added for extra nutrition without compromising flavor.
Serving Ideas
This casserole is filling on its own but pairs well with a few simple sides to round out the meal. A crisp green salad with lime vinaigrette, a basket of warm cornbread, or a refreshing avocado salad are great options. For drinks, iced tea or sparkling lime water keep the meal light and refreshing, while a chilled beer or margarita leans into the Tex Mex vibe.
Leftovers and Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the casserole dish with foil and warm in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until heated through.
Freezing works well for up to 2 months. If freezing, consider leaving off the tortilla chip topping until reheating, to keep it crunchy.
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of tender noodles, creamy sauce, and Tex Mex spices creates a dish that’s both satisfying and exciting. The salsa adds tang and freshness, the beans and corn provide heartiness, and the cheese ties everything together in a melty, indulgent layer. This is comfort food with personality — the kind that makes everyone ask for seconds.
Variations to Try
• Tex Mex Turkey Noodle Casserole — Use leftover roasted turkey instead of chicken for a post-holiday twist.
• Vegetarian Tex Mex Casserole — Skip the chicken and double up on beans and vegetables. Use cream of mushroom soup instead of chicken soup for the sauce.
• Spicy Chipotle Version — Add a tablespoon of minced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky heat that pairs beautifully with the creamy base.
• Breakfast Tex Mex Bake — Swap the noodles for diced potatoes and add scrambled eggs for a breakfast-friendly version.
Final Thoughts
Tex Mex Chicken Noodle Casserole is the kind of recipe that becomes a household favorite. It’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or a cozy weekend meal, this dish delivers flavor and comfort in every bite.
Make it once, and chances are you’ll find yourself coming back to it whenever you want something hearty yet full of vibrant flavor. The combination of creamy, cheesy, zesty, and just a little spicy makes it a winner every single time.