🌮 Cheesy Chicken Taco Casserole 🧀🔥
Layered with creamy salsa chicken, crunchy crushed chips, and melted cheese, this Cheesy Chicken Taco Casserole is the ultimate weeknight meal that is as satisfying as it is simple. Bursting with flavor and the perfect balance of textures, it’s a dish everyone will rave about!
📝 Ingredients:
For the Chicken Mixture:
3 cups cooked chicken, shredded 🍗 (rotisserie chicken works great)
1 (20 oz) can cream of chicken soup 🥫
1 cup chunky salsa 🌶
1 packet taco seasoning 🌮 (about 1 oz)
½ cup sour cream (optional for extra creaminess) 🧴
1 cup frozen corn, thawed 🌽
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed (optional) 🥄
For the Casserole Layers:
1 (8 oz) bag tortilla chips, crushed 🌮
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese 🧀
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese 🧀
½ cup green onions, chopped 🧅
Jalapeño slices (optional, for garnish) 🌶
Fresh cilantro for garnish 🌿
📝 Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little oil to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Chicken Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, chunky salsa, taco seasoning, and sour cream (if using). Mix until everything is well combined.
Stir in the corn and black beans (if using) for added texture and flavor.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with a pinch of salt or pepper as needed.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
Spread a layer of crushed tortilla chips on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Pour half of the chicken mixture over the chips, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the chicken mixture.
Repeat the layers with the remaining crushed tortilla chips, chicken mixture, and cheese.
4. Bake the Casserole:
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for about 25 minutes.
After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.
Garnish with chopped green onions, jalapeño slices, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a burst of color and freshness.
Serve warm with your favorite sides, such as a fresh salad, guacamole, or sour cream.
✨ Tips for Perfecting the Casserole:
Chicken Variations: If you prefer, you can use ground chicken or ground turkey instead of shredded chicken for a slightly different texture. Just be sure to cook it first before mixing it with the rest of the ingredients.
Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add more veggies to the chicken mixture, such as diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even chopped spinach for a healthy twist.
Spicy Kick: Add extra jalapeños or a spoonful of hot salsa for some extra heat if you enjoy spicy food.
Crispy Chip Topping: For an extra crispy chip layer, sprinkle a few extra crushed chips over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions:
Sides to Pair With: Serve this casserole with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple lettuce and tomato salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Toppings Galore: Customize each serving with extra toppings like guacamole, sour cream, or a squeeze of lime to enhance the flavors even more.
🍴 Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: Approx. 450-500 kcal (depending on serving size)
Carbs: Approx. 40-45g
Protein: Approx. 30-35g
Fat: Approx. 25-30g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Cheesy Chicken Taco Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, packed with savory chicken, creamy salsa, and a hearty crunch from the tortilla chips. It’s quick, easy to assemble, and can be tailored to suit your family’s tastes. With the perfect balance of cheesy goodness and taco flavors, it’s bound to be a family favorite!
Enjoy your Cheesy Chicken Taco Casserole—it’s the perfect dish for busy nights, gatherings, or anytime you’re craving a cheesy, comforting meal that’s bursting with flavor! 🌮🧀