Selena Gomez isn’t just a pop star and actress—she’s also behind one of the easiest and most comforting Tex-Mex-inspired casseroles you’ll ever make. Her Cheesy Chicken Tortilla Chip Casserole, originally featured on her cooking show Selena + Chef, is a gooey, crunchy, flavor-packed weeknight dinner hero. Think shredded chicken, layers of crushed tortilla chips, sour cream, and loads of cheese, all baked into bubbly perfection.
Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe
Cheesy, creamy, and crunchy—everything you want in a casserole.
Made with pantry staples and rotisserie chicken.
Perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.
Easy to customize with your favorite Tex-Mex toppings.
A celebrity-approved comfort food dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
What Is Chicken Tortilla Chip Casserole?
This dish is a Tex-Mex-inspired casserole built around layers of crushed tortilla chips, creamy sour cream, spicy salsa, shredded rotisserie chicken, and heaps of cheddar cheese. Selena Gomez’s version keeps it easy and ultra-indulgent, relying on store-bought ingredients and minimal prep. It’s basically a cross between nachos and enchiladas—but baked in a casserole form.
Pro Tips for the Best Selena Gomez Casserole
Use thick tortilla chips that won’t disintegrate when layered with wet ingredients.
Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt if you want a protein boost.
Add drained black beans or corn for more texture and flavor.
Top with pickled jalapeños for extra heat and brightness.
Don’t overbake—20 to 25 minutes is just right to melt the cheese without drying out the casserole.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! Assemble the layers, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to24 hours. Bake when ready.
What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?
Rotisserie chicken works best, but any cooked shredded chicken will do—breast or thigh.
Can I Make This Spicier?
Definitely. Add hot salsa, jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce between the layers.
Do the Tortilla Chips Get Soggy?
Some softening is expected, but they still provide texture—especially the top layer, which turns crispy.
Can I Use a Different Cheese?
Absolutely! Try Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for a twist.
Is This Casserole Gluten-Free?
It can be—just make sure your tortilla chips and salsa are certified gluten-free.
How to Store Selena Gomez’s Casserole
Allow leftovers to cool fully, then cover tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
How to Freeze Selena Gomez’s Casserole
To freeze, assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish but do not bake. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. For leftovers, portion and freeze in airtight containers.
Fresh cilantro or scallions, for garnish (optional)
How to Make Selena Gomez’s Cheesy Chicken Tortilla Chip Casserole
Preheat oven Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
Crush the chips Slightly crush the tortilla chips in the bag—they should still be chunky, not crumbs.
Start layering Add a generous layer of tortilla chips to the bottom of the dish. Top with ⅓ of the shredded chicken, followed by a few spoonfuls of sour cream, salsa, and a handful of cheese.
Repeat layers Continue layering chips, chicken, sour cream, salsa, and cheese until all ingredients are used, finishing with a thick layer of cheese on top.
Bake Place in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling.
Top and serve Garnish with pickled jalapeños, chopped cilantro, or scallions. Serve warm, straight from the dish.