Name: Tex Mex Chicken Noodle Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 8 ounces dried rotini pasta (about 3 cups); 6 tablespoons butter; 1 large red bell pepper, diced; 1 large onion, diced; 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups low-sodium chicken stock; 1 cup half and half; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon paprika; 3 teaspoons taco seasoning; 2 1/2 cups cooked chicken, diced; 1 1/2 cups corn; 1 (7-ounce) can green chiles; 2 cups shredded cheese (pepper jack and cheddar blend); 1 1/2 cups crushed Fritos corn chips; Green onions, for garnish

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

This Tex Mex Chicken Noodle Casserole is a hearty, cheesy, and flavor-packed dish loaded with tender chicken, rotini pasta, veggies, corn, green chiles, and a creamy taco-spiced sauce. Topped with melty cheese and crunchy Fritos, it’s the ultimate comfort food with a Tex Mex twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comforting, flavorful, and satisfying, this casserole combines Tex Mex flavors with the creaminess of a classic noodle bake. It’s great for feeding a crowd, prepping ahead for weeknights, or using up leftover chicken. The crunchy Fritos topping adds irresistible texture that makes every bite exciting.

$Tex Mex Chicken Noodle Casserole$

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

8 ounces dried rotini pasta (about 3 cups)
6 tablespoons butter
1 large red bell pepper, diced
1 large onion, diced
6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups low-sodium chicken stock
1 cup half and half
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
3 teaspoons taco seasoning
2 1/2 cups cooked chicken, diced
1 1/2 cups corn
1 (7-ounce) can green chiles
2 cups shredded cheese (pepper jack and cheddar blend)
1 1/2 cups crushed Fritos corn chips
Green onions, for garnish

directions

Preheat oven to 350°F. Cook rotini pasta to al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large oven-safe skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add diced red pepper and onion; cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Stir in flour and cook for 2–3 minutes to form a roux.
Gradually whisk in chicken stock and half and half, stirring constantly until smooth. Simmer for 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened.
Whisk in salt, pepper, paprika, and taco seasoning.
Fold in cooked pasta, diced chicken, corn, green chiles, and shredded cheese. Stir until everything is well combined.
Sprinkle crushed Fritos evenly over the top.
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until hot, bubbly, and golden.
Garnish with chopped green onions and serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6 servings.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Calories: Approximately 605 kcal per serving

Variations

Spicy Boost: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
Bean It Up: Mix in a cup of black beans or pinto beans for extra texture and protein.
Creamier Option: Stir in an extra 1/2 cup of cheese or a few tablespoons of sour cream.
Veggie-Loaded: Add zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to the skillet when sautéing the onion and pepper.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and flour for a gluten-free version.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheat in the microwave in short intervals or in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or cream if the casserole appears dry.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or shells will work well.

Is it okay to use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely, it’s a great time-saving option.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, freeze before baking (without Fritos topping) for up to 2 months. Add Fritos just before baking.

What cheese is best?

A mix of pepper jack and cheddar adds both creaminess and flavor. Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend also works well.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance. Add Fritos and bake just before serving.

What can I serve with this?

A fresh green salad or roasted vegetables make great sides.

Can I omit the Fritos?

Yes, but they add a unique crunch. Try crushed tortilla chips as an alternative.

Is this dish spicy?

It’s mildly spiced. Use a mild taco seasoning and cheese if sensitive to heat.

Can I add sour cream?

Yes, mix in a few tablespoons of sour cream to the sauce for extra creaminess.

How do I keep the Fritos crispy?

Add them just before baking and avoid covering the dish.

Conclusion

Tex Mex Chicken Noodle Casserole is a fun, family-friendly dish with bold flavors and comforting texture. With a creamy sauce, melty cheese, and a crunchy topping, it’s the kind of recipe that quickly becomes a weeknight favorite.

Jessica