Description
Mexican-inspired chicken taco casserole delivers a zesty flavor explosion that promises comfort and excitement in every delicious bite. Layers of seasoned chicken, crispy tortillas, and melted cheese create a hearty meal perfect for family dinners you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Proteins:
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (about 2 large chicken breasts)
- 1 cup salsa
Dry and Canned Ingredients:
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade mix)
- 1 can (10 ounces / 283 grams) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1 can (15 ounces / 425 grams) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 ½ cups frozen corn kernels, thawed
Cheese and Tortillas:
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend, divided
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas, cut into quarters
Garnish and Optional Toppings:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Sour cream (optional)
- Diced avocado (optional)
- Chopped green onions (optional)
- Jalapenos (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken mixture by combining shredded chicken with aromatic taco seasoning, zesty diced tomatoes with green chilies, hearty black beans, sweet corn kernels, and robust salsa in a spacious mixing bowl. Thoroughly blend the ingredients until evenly distributed.
- Create a foundation for the casserole by lightly coating a 9×13-inch baking vessel with cooking spray. Arrange a precise layer of tortilla quarters across the bottom, creating a sturdy base for the flavorful layers to come.
- Construct the first flavor tier by spreading half of the seasoned chicken mixture evenly over the tortilla base. Generously shower the layer with a cascade of shredded cheese, ensuring complete coverage.
- Build the second architectural layer by carefully positioning another set of tortilla quarters over the cheese. Distribute the remaining chicken mixture with precision, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
- Crown the casserole with a final generous blanket of shredded cheese, ensuring complete surface coverage to guarantee a golden, bubbling finish.
- Shield the casserole with aluminum foil, then slide into a preheated oven set at 350°F (175°C). Allow the flavors to meld and merge for 20 minutes of covered baking.
- Remove the foil covering to expose the casserole, returning it to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes. Watch for the cheese to transform into a molten, golden landscape with enticing bubbling edges.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest briefly. Enhance the presentation by scattering fresh cilantro across the top, creating a vibrant green contrast.
- Serve immediately, accompanied by optional embellishments like cool sour cream, creamy diced avocado, and delicate sliced green onions to personalize each serving.
Notes
- Customize the heat level by choosing mild or spicy taco seasoning to match personal preference.
- Swap chicken for black beans or tofu to create a vegetarian-friendly version of this casserole.
- Prep ingredients ahead of time to make assembly faster and easier during busy weeknights.
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut that saves time without compromising flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 8 g
- Protein: 24 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg