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To make a tasty Chicken Taco Casserole, you need fresh and simple ingredients. Here’s what you will use: - 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded - 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained - 1 cup corn kernels (frozen or canned) - 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies - 1 packet taco seasoning - 2 cups tortilla chips, crushed - 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese - 1 cup sour cream - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) - 1 avocado, diced (for garnish) - 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional for garnish) Each ingredient adds flavor and texture. The cooked chicken is the star, while black beans and corn give it heartiness. The diced tomatoes bring a nice kick, thanks to the green chilies. Taco seasoning ties everything together with its bold taste. Tortilla chips add a crunchy layer, and cheese makes it gooey and delicious. Sour cream adds a creamy touch, and garnishes like cilantro, avocado, and jalapeño bring color and freshness. Feel free to adjust any ingredients to fit your taste. This dish is all about making it yours! {{ingredient_image_1}} - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). - In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and taco seasoning. Mix well until all ingredients are coated with the seasoning. - Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread half of the crushed tortilla chips evenly at the bottom. - Spoon half of the chicken mixture over the tortilla chips. Add half of the cheddar cheese on top. - Repeat the layers: add the remaining tortilla chips, then the rest of the chicken mixture, and top with the rest of the cheddar cheese. - In a separate bowl, mix the sour cream with a splash of lime juice if you want extra flavor. Spread this mixture over the top layer of cheese. - Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. - After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes. Look for the cheese to be bubbly and golden. - When it’s done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro, diced avocado, and sliced jalapeños if you like. - Slice and serve warm. You can dish it out or serve it alongside a fresh green salad. - Choosing the right chicken Use cooked chicken for easy prep. I love rotisserie chicken for great flavor. You can also use leftover chicken from other meals. Just shred it into small pieces for even coverage. - Adjusting spice levels Spice is key in a taco casserole. If you want less heat, use mild taco seasoning. For more kick, try spicy seasoning or add sliced jalapeños. Taste the mixture before baking to find your perfect level. - Best cheese options Cheddar cheese is classic and melts well. You can also mix in Monterey Jack for a creamy texture. If you like bold flavors, try pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist. - Pairing with salads or sides This casserole is filling, so pair it with a light salad. A simple green salad with lime vinaigrette works well. You can also serve it with fresh guacamole or salsa for extra flavor. - Presentation tips for garnishing Presentation matters! After baking, sprinkle fresh cilantro on top. Diced avocado adds color and creaminess. For a pop of heat, add jalapeño slices. Serve it warm for the best taste and look. Pro Tips Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker prep time, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken. It saves cooking time and adds a delicious flavor. Customize Your Spice Level: Adjust the amount of taco seasoning or add diced jalapeños to the chicken mixture for a spicier kick. Layer with Care: Ensure even layering of ingredients for a balanced flavor in every bite. Spread each layer evenly to prevent sogginess. Garnish for Freshness: Fresh garnishes like cilantro and avocado not only enhance the dish's appearance but also add refreshing flavors that complement the casserole. {{image_2}} Using different proteins You can switch out chicken for turkey, beef, or pork. Each option brings a new flavor. If you use cooked meats, ensure they are shredded or diced. This keeps the dish easy to serve. Vegetarian alternatives For a meatless dish, replace the chicken with more beans or lentils. You can also add sautéed veggies like bell peppers and zucchini. This keeps the casserole hearty and satisfying. Low-carb options If you want a low-carb dish, skip the tortilla chips. Instead, use cauliflower rice for a base. It keeps the texture nice while cutting carbs. Adding more spices Feel free to boost flavor by adding spices. Cumin, paprika, or chili powder can give an extra kick. You can also mix in garlic or onion powder for depth. Additional toppings to consider Don't forget toppings! Sour cream adds creaminess, while fresh cilantro gives brightness. Avocado slices or jalapeños bring freshness and heat. You can even add a squeeze of lime for zest. To keep your chicken taco casserole fresh, store it in the fridge. Place it in an airtight container. It will last for about three to four days. If you want to save it longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When it's time to enjoy your leftovers, the best way to reheat is in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes. This helps keep the cheese nice and melty. You can also use the microwave, but be careful. Heat in short bursts, checking often to avoid sogginess. Enjoy your meal just like it was fresh! How long does chicken taco casserole last? Chicken taco casserole lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Make sure you cover it well to keep it fresh. Store it in an airtight container for best results. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Prepare the casserole, but don’t bake it. Just cover it and place it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, bake it as directed. This saves time on busy days. What can I serve with chicken taco casserole? You can serve chicken taco casserole with a fresh salad or some guacamole. Rice or beans work well too. For a fun twist, add tortilla chips or a side of salsa. This makes your meal even more enjoyable! The chicken taco casserole is easy to make and tasty. You blend cooked chicken, beans, corn, and spices. Then, you layer it all and bake. You can change ingredients and adjust spices to fit your taste. Store leftovers in the fridge or freeze them for later. This dish suits many occasions and is fun to serve. With these tips, you can impress friends and family with your cooking skills. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Cheesy Chicken Taco Casserole

A delicious and cheesy casserole featuring shredded chicken, black beans, corn, and topped with tortilla chips and cheddar cheese.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 6
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn kernels (frozen or canned)
  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 2 cups tortilla chips, crushed
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 0.25 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 whole avocado, diced (for garnish)
  • 1 whole jalapeño, sliced (optional for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and taco seasoning. Mix well until all ingredients are coated with the seasoning.
  • In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spread half of the crushed tortilla chips evenly at the bottom.
  • Spoon half of the chicken mixture over the tortilla chips, followed by a layer of half the cheddar cheese.
  • Repeat the layers: add the remaining tortilla chips, then the rest of the chicken mixture, and top with the rest of the cheddar cheese.
  • In a separate bowl, mix the sour cream with a splash of lime juice (optional for added freshness). Spread this mixture over the top layer of cheese.
  • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  • After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  • Once it's done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro, diced avocado, and slices of jalapeño if desired.
  • Slice and serve warm, either directly from the dish or plated alongside a fresh green salad.

Notes

For added freshness, mix sour cream with a splash of lime juice.
Keyword casserole, cheesy, chicken, taco