Chicken Taco Casserole

Looking for a comforting and delicious meal that’s easy to prepare? Chicken Taco Casserole is the answer! This dish is a true crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures that keep everyone coming back for more. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, it’s simple to whip up, making tasty leftovers as well!

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Calories: 380
Protein: 24g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 8g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 830mg

Why Make Chicken Taco Casserole

Chicken Taco Casserole is an excellent way to enjoy a balanced meal. Packed with protein from the chicken and black beans, this dish offers a good dose of fiber, making it a wholesome choice. Plus, its versatility allows you to customize the flavors, adding your favorite ingredients or making it spicier if you wish. You can easily tailor it to meet individual tastes and dietary needs, ensuring everyone at the table is satisfied.

How to Make Chicken Taco Casserole Step by Step

Ingredients

20.1 ounces cream of chicken soup
1 cup chunky-style salsa
4 ounces diced green chilies
1/2 cup sour cream
0.85 ounce chicken taco seasoning
3 cups shredded white meat chicken
15 ounces seasoned black beans
3 cups crushed tortilla chips
2.5 cups Colby Jack cheese
1 cup Monterey Jack cheese

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, salsa, diced green chilies, sour cream, and chicken taco seasoning. Mix well.
3. Stir in the shredded chicken and black beans until well combined.
4. In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the crushed tortilla chips.
5. Pour half of the chicken mixture over the chips.
6. Sprinkle 1.5 cups of Colby Jack cheese and half of the Monterey Jack cheese on top.
7. Repeat the layers with the remaining tortilla chips, chicken mixture, and cheeses.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Chicken Taco Casserole

Chicken Taco Casserole can be served in many delightful ways. Pair it with a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish or add some avocado slices and diced tomatoes on top for a refreshing touch. For extra flavor, serve with a side of sour cream, guacamole, or even homemade pico de gallo.

How to Store Chicken Taco Casserole

To store unused Chicken Taco Casserole, simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole for up to three months. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to help retain moisture and heat it in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Expert Tips for Cooking Chicken Taco Casserole

• For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or chopped chipotle in adobo sauce to the chicken mixture.
• Use rotisserie chicken for extra flavor and time-saving convenience.
• Consider topping with fresh cilantro or green onions for added freshness before serving.
• Experiment with different cheese blends for unique flavors, such as pepper jack or a Mexican blend.
• For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and use low-fat cheese.

Delicious Variations of Chicken Taco Casserole

• For a vegetarian option, swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms and zucchini, and add more veggies like bell peppers and corn.
• Spice it up by adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the chicken mixture.
• For a tangy twist, incorporate lime juice and zest into the chicken mixture for a refreshing citrus flavor.

With its amazing flavors and easy preparation, Chicken Taco Casserole is a fantastic dish to add to your recipe repertoire. Whether for a family meal or serving guests, you’re sure to delight with this wholesome and comforting casserole. Give it a try—you and your loved ones will be reaching for seconds!