Oh boy, do I have a treat for you today! If you’ve ever found yourself longing for the crunch of taco night but wanted something a bit heartier, then this Tasty and Simple Chicken Taco Casserole is going to be your new best friend. I first encountered this dish during a chilly autumn potluck with friends, and let me tell you, it was love at first bite! Since then, I’ve made it countless times for family gatherings, lazy weekends, and even those ‘I have no idea what to cook’ nights.
What I adore about this casserole is its versatility. It’s like a warm embrace on a plate—crunchy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken, making it a win-win for both your taste buds and your wallet. Trust me, once you make this dish, your friends and family will be begging for the recipe!
What’s in Tasty and Simple Chicken Taco Casserole?
Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this dish a flavorful masterpiece:
Cooked Chicken: Shredded and easy to blend into the casserole. I usually use rotisserie chicken for its convenience, but any leftover chicken will work wonders.
Black Beans: These nutrient-rich beans add fiber and protein. Definitely opt for low-sodium canned beans to keep it healthier.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: They add just the right amount of spice and sweetness. I use the canned variety for speed and ease.
Corn: Sweet corn brings a lovely pop of color and flavor. If you can, use fresh corn off the cob when it’s in season, but canned or frozen work well too!
Taco Sauce: This is where the magic happens! It really ties all the flavors together, but feel free to go for your favorite brand.
Spices (Chili Powder, Cumin, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder): A little spice goes a long way! These give the casserole its warm and inviting flavor profile.
Tortilla Chips: Crushed to form a delicious base and topping. Just listen to that satisfying crunch when you dig in!
Cheddar and Monterey Jack Cheese: Because, let’s be real, what’s a casserole without gooey, melted cheese? A mix of these two provides a perfect balance of flavor.
Green Onions: Sliced and sprinkled on top for garnish and crunch. They add a fresh kick right before serving!
Is Tasty and Simple Chicken Taco Casserole Good for You?
Absolutely! While this casserole is undeniably indulgent, it also packs in some wholesome ingredients.
Chicken: High in protein, it’s a great way to fuel your body!
Black Beans: They add both protein and fiber, supporting digestion and keeping you full longer.
Corn: A good source of carbohydrates, which are essential for energy.
However, since it does have cheese and chips, moderation is key if you’re watching your calorie intake. I find that, with a nice side salad, it balances out perfectly!
Here’s What You’ll Need:
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
– 1 cup taco sauce
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 3 cups tortilla chips, crushed
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Serves: 6-8
How to Make Tasty and Simple Chicken Taco Casserole?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, corn, taco sauce, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
3. In a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish, spread half of the crushed tortilla chips on the bottom.
4. Pour half of the chicken mixture over the chips, and spread it evenly.
5. Sprinkle one cup of the cheddar cheese and half a cup of the Monterey Jack cheese over the chicken mixture.
6. Repeat the layers: add the remaining crushed tortilla chips, followed by the remaining chicken mixture, and top with the remaining cheese.
7. Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Remove from oven, let cool for a few minutes, then garnish with sliced green onions before serving. Enjoy your tasty chicken taco casserole!
A Few Fun Tips for Your Casserole Adventure!
– Feel free to swap in ground beef or turkey for the chicken if that’s what you’ve got on hand.
– Get creative with the cheeses! Pepper Jack adds a nice kick if you’re feeling spicy.
– Want to make it vegetarian? Just leave out the chicken and add more beans or some sautéed veggies for an added punch.
– This casserole keeps well, so it’s excellent for meal prep. Just store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days—if it lasts that long!
I can’t wait for you to try this recipe! It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings smiles to the table. Plus, it really is so simple to whip up. I’d love to hear how yours turns out or any fun twists you put on it. Happy cooking!
