Are you searching for a crowd-pleasing dinner idea that’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor? Look no further than this irresistible Dorito Chicken Bake recipe! Combining tender shredded chicken, creamy cheese, zesty Ro-tel tomatoes, and crunchy Doritos, this dish is a guaranteed hit with family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend get-together, this cheesy, satisfying bake is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Join us as we dive into the ingredients, instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions of this mouthwatering dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (divided)
- 1 (10 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 can Ro-tel tomatoes (drained)
- 1/2 packet taco seasoning
- 1 large bag Doritos
- Shredded lettuce (optional)
- Diced tomato (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Prepare Chicken Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, 1 cup of shredded Mexican cheese blend, cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, drained Ro-tel tomatoes, and taco seasoning. Mix until well combined.
3. Layer with Doritos:
- Crush the Doritos into small pieces and spread half of them evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Spoon the chicken mixture over the layer of Doritos, spreading it out evenly.
- Top the chicken mixture with the remaining shredded cheese and crushed Doritos.
4. Bake to Perfection:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Garnish and Serve:
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Garnish with shredded lettuce and diced tomato, if desired, before serving.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Some Heat: For a spicier version, use a can of Ro-tel tomatoes with green chilies or add some chopped jalapeños to the chicken mixture.
- Extra Toppings: Get creative with additional toppings such as sliced black olives, diced avocado, or chopped green onions.
- Crunchy Coating: Swap out the Doritos for your favorite flavor of tortilla chips or even seasoned breadcrumbs for a different texture.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Low-Carb Chips: Substitute the Doritos with homemade keto-friendly chips made from cheese crisps or almond flour tortillas.
Low-Carb Version:
- Vegetable Base: Replace the Doritos with a layer of thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant for a low-carb alternative.
- Creamy Sauce: Use a homemade cream sauce thickened with almond flour or coconut flour instead of the cream of chicken soup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of shredded cooked chicken? A: Yes, rotisserie chicken works great in this recipe! Simply shred the chicken meat and proceed with the recipe as directed.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the dish up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the dish is cold from the fridge.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
In conclusion, this Dorito Chicken Bake is a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its winning combination of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and crunchy Doritos, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a potluck gathering, this flavorful bake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and whip up a batch of this delicious Dorito Chicken Bake today!
