Mexican Chicken Lasagna Recipe
If you want to take lasagna night on a bold, delicious adventure, you absolutely have to try this Mexican Chicken Lasagna Recipe. It’s a spicy, saucy, cheesy dream that layers tender chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, and oodles of melty Mexican cheese between classic lasagna noodles. Every bite brings a fiesta of flavors and a nourishing comfort that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. Get ready for your new family favorite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This is one recipe where every ingredient truly matters. Each brings its own pop of color, texture, or a big flavor boost—making this Mexican Chicken Lasagna Recipe both vibrant and satisfying from the very first forkful.
- Oven-ready lasagna noodles (9): These make layering a breeze without any need for pre-boiling, cutting your prep time in half.
- Cooked shredded chicken (2 cups): Tender chicken soaks up all the spices and salsa, becoming the heart of each layer—rotisserie works wonders for busy nights!
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): A drizzle helps soften the aromatics and carries all the smoky spice flavor throughout the dish.
- Onion, diced (1/2 cup): Adds a subtle sweetness and great depth to the base; yellow or white onions both work beautifully.
- Garlic, minced (1 clove): One clove is just enough for a savory backbone—fresh or even jarred garlic will do the trick.
- Chili powder (1 teaspoon): This brings gentle heat and a robust smokiness reminiscent of your favorite taco night.
- Cumin (1/2 teaspoon): Ground cumin gives the whole dish an earthy essence that pairs perfectly with chicken and beans.
- Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses a mild sweetness and subtle smokiness, making the flavors feel full and rounded.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances every flavor—and don’t be tempted to skip it!
- Black beans, drained and rinsed (1 can, 15-ounce): These bring fiber, protein, and a creamy bite that makes every slice extra hearty.
- Corn kernels (1 cup): Pops of corn give bursts of sweetness and color all throughout the lasagna.
- Salsa (2 cups): Both the sauce and the flavor-maker—pick your favorite mild or spicy salsa for the perfect kick.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Dollops between layers create that addictive creamy tang that brings everything together.
- Shredded Mexican cheese blend (2 cups): For the ooey-gooey, bubbly, golden topping—don’t be shy!
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish: A sprinkle of cilantro adds color and a refreshing finish that brightens every bite.
How to Make Mexican Chicken Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Your Aromatics
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Warm up a large skillet with olive oil over medium heat, then toss in your diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2 to 3 minutes—you want everything softened and fragrant, but not browned. This step creates a flavor-packed foundation that will shine through every layer.
Step 2: Spice Up the Chicken Mixture
Add the shredded chicken to the skillet, followed by chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt. Give it a good stir to coat the chicken in all those gorgeous spices. Next, fold in the black beans, corn, and half of your salsa. Let this mixture warm through for a couple of minutes so the flavors mingle and get cozy—it’s the filling for your Mexican Chicken Lasagna Recipe!
Step 3: Start Layering in the Baking Dish
Grab your 9×13-inch baking dish and spread a thin layer of salsa across the bottom to keep the noodles from sticking and add extra flavor. Arrange three lasagna noodles over the salsa, overlapping slightly if needed. Spoon on half of your chicken mixture, dot with a few spoonfuls of sour cream, and sprinkle generously with cheese. Each layer is building up to cheesy, hearty perfection.
Step 4: Repeat the Layers
Place another three noodles on top of the first layer. Pile on the remaining chicken mixture, a few more blobs of sour cream, and another layer of cheese. The alternating layers keep everything moist and ensure every bite holds that classic “lasagna” comfort — only with a zesty, Mexican-inspired twist.
Step 5: Finish and Bake
Top with the last three noodles, pour over your remaining salsa, and blanket the dish with the rest of your cheese. Cover everything snugly with foil and bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and let it go for another 10 minutes until it’s golden, bubbly, and utterly irresistible. Make sure to let it rest for about 10 minutes after baking—this helps the layers set and makes cutting neat slices a breeze.
How to Serve Mexican Chicken Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped cilantro is a simple, vibrant garnish that pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of this Mexican Chicken Lasagna Recipe. For extra flair, add sliced jalapeños, avocado cubes, diced tomatoes, or a little extra dollop of sour cream just before serving. Let everyone sprinkle their choice of toppings at the table for a fun, interactive meal!
Side Dishes
This lasagna is hearty enough to be the star of the show, but it absolutely loves good company. Serve alongside a simple green salad with a lime vinaigrette, creamy refried beans, Mexican rice, or tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast. These sides not only round out the meal but help temper the spicy, cheesy goodness in every slice.
Creative Ways to Present
Think outside the baking dish! Try individual ramekins for mini versions at a party, or roll up the noodles enchilada-style for a hand-held appetizer. Layer any leftovers into a mason jar for a portable lunch, or serve with a side of tortilla chips for “lasagna nachos”—all fun ways to make your Mexican Chicken Lasagna Recipe the talk of the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Mexican Chicken Lasagna Recipe, simply cover any leftover slices with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. It keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to four days, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal for busy weeks or meal preppers looking for something filling and flavorful.
Freezing
This dish was practically made for the freezer! Wrap the entire cooked (and cooled) lasagna tightly in foil, or slice and portion into freezer-safe containers. Pop the lasagna in the freezer for up to three months—write the date and reheat instructions on the package, so future you is never in doubt.
Reheating
To reheat from the fridge, simply place a slice in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or warm several slices in an oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly. For frozen lasagna, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake covered at 350°F until warmed through. Add a fresh sprinkle of cheese before heating for an extra delicious touch!
FAQs
Can I use flour tortillas instead of noodles?
You definitely can swap in flour tortillas if you love an enchilada-style vibe! Just remember, they’ll soften more than noodles and give you more of a casserole feel than a classic layered lasagna.
Is this recipe spicy?
The spice level in this Mexican Chicken Lasagna Recipe depends entirely on your choice of salsa and chili powder. Use a mild salsa for a kid-friendly bake or something fiery if you love extra heat. You can always add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce at the table to customize each serving.
Can I use beef or turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken is quick and tender, but ground beef or turkey works beautifully. Just cook and season the meat as you would the chicken, then follow the layering instructions—your Mexican Lasagna Recipe will be delicious no matter which protein you pick!
Do I have to use oven-ready noodles?
Oven-ready noodles are super convenient, but if you have regular lasagna noodles on hand, just boil them according to package instructions before layering. The rest of the recipe stays the same, and your Mexican Chicken Lasagna Recipe will be just as tasty.
How do I stop the lasagna from getting soggy?
To avoid sogginess, make sure to drain and rinse your black beans well, and don’t go overboard with the salsa. Also, let your lasagna rest a full 10 minutes after baking so the layers firm up—this makes slicing and serving much neater.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to bring something exciting to your dinner table, this Mexican Chicken Lasagna Recipe delivers comfort, flavor, and fun—every time. Give it a try, share it with loved ones, and don’t be surprised if it becomes one of those most-requested family favorites that everyone asks for again and again!
Print
Mexican Chicken Lasagna Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Mexican Chicken Lasagna is a delicious twist on traditional lasagna, featuring layers of spicy chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, and cheese. It’s a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Lasagna:
- 9 oven-ready lasagna noodles
Chicken Mixture:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 2 cups salsa (mild or spicy)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
- Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sauté onion and garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft.
- Prepare chicken mixture: Stir in shredded chicken, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and salt. Add black beans, corn, and 1 cup of salsa, mixing until heated through.
- Assemble the lasagna: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer ingredients starting with salsa, lasagna noodles, chicken mixture, sour cream, and cheese. Repeat layers and top with remaining salsa and cheese.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Rest and garnish: Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped cilantro.
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Add jalapeños or hot sauce for extra spice.
- This lasagna freezes well and can be reheated for easy leftovers.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
